Richard Bates

Richard Bates, who most recently played for The Wingates Band and Desford Colliery Band is a member of the Derbyshire based Derwent Brass playing Flugelhorn. Richard has supported the band at various events over the last 12 months on Soprano, the same instrument he now leaves behind at Desford as he takes on a new role on Flugelhorn.

As an endorsed Eclipse Artist however, Richard is no stranger to the Flugelhorn and is indeed looking forward to the new challenge…

“I’ve been friends with the team at Derwent Brass for some time now, it is long overdue me joining the band and I’m really looking forward to working with such a great bunch of musicians under such a quality conductor.” (Richard Bates)

Richard replaces Pam Davis who was the band’s Flugel for some ten years as well as being a trustee. Musical Director, Keith Leonard commented:

“I am thrilled that we have been able to quickly sign up a player as talented as Richard to the Flugelhorn seat at Derwent. Richard is not only a fine player, but already a friend of the band and he blends in with our unique setup. I look forward to working with him and wish him a long and enjoyable stay with the band. On behalf of Derwent Brass I would like to thank Pam for her exemplary commitment to the band over the past 10 years and wish her well for the future."