Two New Tenors

Derwent Brass are delighted to announce the appointment of two new tenor trombone players. Joining the band with immediate effect are Richard Walker on Solo Trombone and Malcolm Portman on 2nd Trombone.

Richard who is a former student on the Post Graduate Musical Performance Course at the University of Salford, was most recently the Solo Trombone of Thoresby Colliery Band, but has played with leading bands such as Leyland, Fairey’s and Carlton Main Frickley Colliery Band, as well as depping with bands such as Black Dyke, Grimethorpe Colliery and Cory Band. Away from brass bands, Richard is also a trombonist with both the Essentially Brass and Harlequin Brass ensembles, as well as the Nottingham Jazz Orchestra. Richard has supported Derwent Brass many times in the past, including being part of their ensemble tours in Germany and performing in concerts sharing the stage with groups such as British Sea Power (Sea of Brass Tour) and the Swingle Singers.

Joining alongside Richard is Malcolm who equally brings an impressive array of experience to the band, having played previously for Thoresby Colliery, Carlton Main Frickley Colliery Band and Blidworth Welfare Band. In addition to his brass band experience, Malcolm also has an impressive military background, notably teaching brass at the Qatari Army Music Corps and working under such names as Ian McElligott. No stranger to Derwent Brass, Malcolm most recently performed with the band at the joint National Association of Choirs concert in the Nottingham Albert Hall. 

“I could not be more pleased that we have been able to attract such a high standard of trombone player in both Richard and Malcolm. The band has always admired the playing of both individuals and we are grateful for the support they have given us in the past. I sincerely hope their tenure with the band is a long and enjoyable one and I’m confident it will be a real boost along our journey of continual improvement.” (Chris Leonard, Band Manager)