Renfrew Burgh Band expands conducting team

Ash Paton and Mark Good

THE summer season is hotting up for Renfrew Burgh Band, as it prepares for its summer concert with a new addition to its conducting team.

The Burgh Band - the reigning Scottish champion in the Third Section - has announced the appointment of Ash Paton as its assistant musical director.

Park Mains High pupil Ash will combine her duties with her existing role as principal cornet of the Burgh Band, working alongside musical director, Mark Good.

Ash - who recently represented Renfrewshire as a finalist in Scottish Young Musicians - has already led Renfrew Burgh Band in rehearsals and performances, including Renfrew Gala Day.

At 16, she is the youngest conductor to be appointed in the Burgh Band's 114-year history, as the organisation continues to strive to offer opportunities to emerging young conductors.

Mark Good, musical director, commented: "Welcoming Ash into her new role as assistant musical director is a huge coup for the Renfrew Burgh Band. She combines an innate musicality with a sense of leadership which belies her years, and I know she will be a huge asset to the organisation in the busy and exciting period which lies ahead."

News of Ash's appointment comes as Renfrew Burgh Band prepares to host its summer concert, at which it will be joined by superstar brass soloist and former winner of the BBC Radio 2 Young Musician of the Year, Sheona White.

Attendees to the event will be able to enjoy an evening of music for all the family, including several performances from Besson Artist Sheona, whose impressive performing CV includes award-winning spells with the likes of Black Dyke, Foden's, Brighouse and Rastrick, and Yorkshire Building Society bands.

Myra Mack, chairperson of Renfrew Burgh Band, commented: "Renfrew Burgh Band has long enjoyed a reputation for offering opportunities to emerging young conductors, and we're delighted to welcome Ash Paton on board in her new role.

"From our recent performance at Renfrew gala day to our upcoming summer concert and our trip to the National Brass Band Championships of Great Britain in September, we continue to enjoy representing Renfrewshire with pride, and we are grateful for the continued support."

Renfrew Burgh Band's summer concert takes place in Renfrew Town Hall on Saturday, July 5, at 7pm.

Tickets are free, but should be booked in advance at: www.ticketsource.co.uk/renfrewburghband/