I used to be a good trombonist way back in the early and mid 80’s when I was a student. I played mostly in orchestral groups as a teenager and then as a student, but when a busy life of teaching, marriage, family, and lots of other things took over the trombone only came out a couple of times each Christmas. Fast forward to my 60th year, and both of my grown-up and very capable cornet-playing sons have joined Whitwell Brass Band. There was apparently a need for a trombone, and after months of nagging I dusted off the old instrument and took the plunge!

My first realisation was that my old trombone from 40 years ago was not up to it, and the second realisation was that I wasn’t up to it either! Lots of practice, lots of money on a new instrument, and lots of success for the band later, and I am beginning to feel that I deserve to be in the 2nd trom seat….just about! It’s been a real joy and fantastic privilege to be welcomed into such a friendly and talented group of people, to be led by the amazing Rob Deakin, and to have learned so much from fellow-trombonists Colin and David. Dave was such a kind and generous man, and I’ll miss him, his words of wisdom, and his total encouragement.

So starting again on the trombone, in a really great brass band, has been simply wonderful, and Ihope to keep going until my arms and lips give up!

Nick Harding

2nd Trombone