Ashley Higgins Announced as Solo Euphonium
The band are pleased to announce the appointment of Ashley Higgins as the new solo euphonium player with the Hammonds Saltaire Band. Ashley has been with the band for nearly four years, having joined us on second euphonium from Meltham and Meltham Mills band whilst studying at Huddersfield University.
Ashley began his playing career as a pupil at Wardle High School under the tuition of Lee Rigg. As he progressed through the Wardle system he eventually moved to Wardle Anderson Brass under the baton of Sean Conway.
After his A-Levels Ashley began his studies at Huddersfield University where he was tutored by David Thornton and quickly found himself on the solo euphonium seat in the University Band. He also studied conducting under the band's musical director, Phillip McCann. In his time in the Huddersfield University Band Ashley was the featured soloist at the Unibrass Entertainment Contest.
Joining Ashley on second euphonium is David Smith. David has recently played euphonium with the Hade Edge Band where he was awarded the players' player of the year award in 2015. He began playing euphonium at the age of 12 with Shropshire Music Service. In 2003 David moved to Huddersfield to study at the University where he was also taught by David Thornton whilst studying for his music degree.
We would like to take this opportunity to thank Matthew Allsop for his work with the band. Matthew left the band just before Christmas after eight years on solo euphonium due to increased commitments at work. He leaves with our thanks and also congratulations on his recent marriage to Jo at the end of December.