Changes at the top for Fairey’s
The Fairey Band has announced the appointment of Stephanie Wilkins as principal cornet and Adam Bokaris on solo euphonium.
Stephanie Wilkins, a former student of the RWCMD in Cardiff, and Harry Mortimer Award Winner, joins the band following a successful seven year stint with Cory. Commenting on her relocation to the North of England Stephanie said, "I feel very proud and honoured and am really looking forward to the new challenge ahead."
Meanwhile, Adam Bokaris has become the band's new solo euphonium, having just finished his studies at the RNCM in Manchester, where he gained a First Class honours degree, and earlier this year won the 'Best Soloist' award at the UniBrass Championships. He takes over the role as Jim Fieldhouse steps down due to work commitments.
Band spokesperson Rebecca Lundberg commented "A special thanks must firstly go to Brian Taylor for doing a sterling job on the end chair over the last 12 months and also to Jim Fieldhouse for his input over the last six years. Jim has been instrumental in the band's recent success, as a player, composer and organiser, the pinnacle being his performance in London as we qualified for the 2018 European Championships. We'll miss him and we wish him every success for the future."
Professional conductor Garry Cutt stated, "I'm delighted that we have such exciting young playing talent taking up principal seats with the band. It was immediately obvious having met Steph and heard her play, that she was the right person for the role. She is a first-rate bandsperson and a great player. Adam has deputised on solo euphonium over the last few months on various occasions and has done a fantastic job. He is the ideal player to fill this important role."
