Ian Brownbill

IAN BROWNBILL

MD, December 2001 - December 2003

Ian Brownbill is a fourth generation bandsman and commenced playing the cornet and piano at the age of ten. His formative years as a player were under the nurturing influence of his father. At the early age of 15, Ian Joined the CWS Manchester Band and at the same time played Principal Trumpet with The Liverpool Mozart Orchestra.

During the 1980’s Ian enjoyed a successful period as principal cornetist with several bands in the North west of England. During this time he benefited from regular tuition with David King. Ian also gained his BA in music and drama in 1987. In 1990, Ian joined the Leyland DAF Band as assistant principal cornet to the legendary Phillip McCann.

Highlights whilst with Haydock

2002 - 6th place, North West Regionals, Championship Section

2002 - North Wales Entertainment Champions, Championship Section

2003 - Qualification from The Senior Trophy to The Senior Cup

2003 - 3rd place, North West Regionals, Championship Section and qualification to the National Finals at The Royal Albert Hall, London

October 2003 - National Finalists, Championship Section held at RAH

In May 1993, Ian was appointed flugel horn soloist with Black Dyke Mills Band, and during the next three years enjoyed a number of successes, including in 1995 the memorable ‘grand slam’ as European, British Open and National Champions. In the same year, Ian was distinguished by his peers who voted him Black Dyke ‘Bandsman of the Year’.

Ian has spent many years working as a specialist brass teacher including a rewarding five year period at St Vincent’s School for the Blind in Liverpool.

In more recent years Ian has taken some time out of playing with bands to try his hand with the baton. He has already taken three second section bands to the National Finals on four occasions, conducting the winning performance in 1997, the runners -up prize in ’96 and ‘99 and third prize in ’92. As an adjudicator, Ian has been engaged at various contests including, The Pilkington Northern Open, The Tameside Festival and The British Open Solo Championships of Great Britain, amongst others.

Ian was a featured soloist on the CD ‘Nexus’ with the famous folk rock band ‘Barclay James Harvest’ in ‘99, and, along with other ‘Dyke’ soloists, performed a few years earlier with Tori Amos on her ‘Boys from Pele’ CD.