Musical Directors

Michael began playing at the age of 11 for the Grimethorpe Junior Band. Michael studied for his degree and L.R.S.M in band mastership under the direction of the late Major Peter Parkes at Sheffield University, whilst being tutored on the euphonium by Billy Miller and Dr Nicholas Childs.

After gaining experience with bands such as Carlton Main Frickley, Brighouse & Rastrick and Horbury Victoria itself, Michael joined the Grimethorpe Colliery Band in 1998. He stayed with Grimethorpe for 22 years up to the end of 2019 until deciding to take a break from playing.

When bands could finally get back together again following the pandemic, Michael decided it was time for a new venture. As well as joining the senior band at Horbury where his wife was already playing, Michael took on the reigns of Musical Director of the learner, intermediate and youth bands where his two children play following the retirement of Tom Greatorex.

Michael is a peripatetic brass teacher and conductor with Barnsley Music Services and tutors for students at the University of Sheffield and the University of Leeds. He has also tutored and conducted at the Wessex Band Summer School and National Children's Brass Band of Great Britain.

As well as his teaching, tutoring, conducting and playing commitments, Michael also adjudicates. In recent years, he has adjudicated at the Scottish Championships (Championship Section and Fourth Section), Foden's Solo and Quartet Contest and twice at the Besson Scottish Solo & Ensemble Championships.