IT is with deepest regret and sympathy that the Crediton Town Band mourns the loss of its Musical Director Chris Taylor.

After a short illness, Chris died at his home in late March.

He had been the Band’s Musical Director since early 2023 and it was his second time as MD since taking the band role previously in the 1990’s.

All the Band members are devastated at the loss of Chris as not only was he a thorough musical professional but a very caring person.

He was a highly respected euphonium player, band trainer and Musical Director throughout the Brass Band world.

Chris joined the Army and became principal euphonium player in the Royal Engineers Staff Band.

A move to The Royal Military Academy Band at Sandhurst enabled him to develop more teaching in and around Surrey and Hampshire, as well as performing at the famous Sovereign’s Parade at the Academy on many occasions.

After leaving the Services, Chris took a job with Cornwall County Council in the 80’s and following this was 30 years as a Brass specialist teacher at Blundell’s School, Tiverton, meant that he had been teaching music together with Band Coaching for over 50 years. 

FUTURE

Due to a very busy period of forthcoming engagements taking the Band up to July, the Band has arranged for temporary cover for the Musical Director position within the Band.

It will not be in a position to consider applications for the post of Musical Director until after July 6.

However, if there is anyone interested and would like to attend a band rehearsal prior to that date, they are more than welcome to do so.

The band rehearses on a Thursday evening at Hayward’s Primary School hall, from 7.30pm to 9.30pm.

Anyone interested would you please contact email: [email protected]  to arrange a suitable date and time.