Posted: 02/06/26
Derwent Brass is delighted to announce the appointment of rising Tenor Horn star Sam Edwards.
At just 19 years of age, Sam joins the band with an already impressive musical résumé and a growing reputation as one of the most exciting young horn players in the UK. Having first picked up the tenor horn at the age of six through his primary school, Sam went on to achieve Grade 8 at just 14 years old and has continued to establish himself as a musician of considerable promise.
Currently serving as Solo Horn with Coleshill Town Band whilst studying at the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire under the guidance of renowned brass educators Helen Varley and Ian Porthouse, Sam has already performed with some of the brass band movement's most respected organisations, including Grimethorpe Colliery Band and Foden's Band.
He previously held the Solo Horn position with the Grimethorpe North of England Youth Band and has enjoyed success in numerous brass band competitions, collecting several individual awards including Best Instrumentalist. His musicianship, commitment and positive influence were also recognised by his fellow players when he was voted Players' Player of the Year.
Away from the concert platform, Sam is also well known within the brass band community as a commentator and presenter, providing online contest coverage and analysis for Brassing Around, including ConsTest and the British Open Spring Festival.
In November 2025, Sam was appointed as a Mercer & Barker Artist and Ambassador, reflecting his growing reputation within the brass band world. Most recently, his recital at the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire was met with considerable praise from both audience and assessors, earning an outstanding result and further highlighting his continued development as a performer and musician.
Musical Director Jack Capstaff commented: "Sam is an exceptional young musician and someone I've been aware of for some time. To have achieved what he already has at just 19 years of age is hugely impressive, and it's easy to see why he is so highly regarded by those who have worked closely with him. His playing is mature, musical and technically assured, but equally important is his attitude. He's ambitious, hardworking and constantly looking to improve.
Sam has already gained experience with some of the very best organisations in the brass band world, and I genuinely believe he has all the attributes to go on and achieve great things. We're absolutely delighted that he has chosen to continue his journey with Derwent Brass."
Speaking about joining the band, Sam said: "I'm really excited to be joining Derwent Brass. The band's ambition, reputation and welcoming atmosphere made it a very easy decision, and I'm looking forward to contributing to the band's continued success whilst continuing to develop as a musician."
Band Manager Chris Leonard added: "What impressed us most about Sam wasn't just his musical ability, but his character. Despite everything he has already achieved, he remains incredibly humble, grounded and eager to learn. He clearly has a very bright future ahead of him and we're delighted that Derwent Brass will be part of that journey. We look forward to welcoming him into the organisation and seeing him thrive both on and off the stage."
Everyone at Derwent Brass extends a warm welcome to Sam and looks forward to supporting the next stage of his musical journey.
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