Milnrow Doesn’t Skip A Beat

Lee Skipsey becomes Musical Director of Milnrow Band effective immediately.

Milnrow started working with Lee and a number of other conductors following the departure of John Doyle whilst the search for a new fulltime MD began. It became obvious quite quickly that there was great potential for a strong relationship between Lee and the band, however at the time personal circumstances could not facilitate that. Thankfully towards the end of the summer Lee’s circumstances changed and the band wasted no time in inviting him to become the next Musical Director of Milnrow Band

Previously, Lee was Musical Director for the City of Bradford Band (CoBB) in 2010 following 8 years of highly successful performances as a percussionist (with 6 years as Principal Percussionist) with the world famous Black Dyke Band. When Lee commenced with CoBB there was an ensemble of only 12 musicians, and over the course of 10 years the organisation grew into a family of bands and 90 musicians. In that time the senior band was promoted multiple times from 3rd Section to Championship and the feeder band (BD1) from 4th to 2nd Section.

When asked for comment on his appointment Lee replied “The time is now to take on a band that wants to be on the biggest stages at the biggest contests and I feel that Milnrow Band could be the one.”

Milnrow Band takes to the stage for the first time with Lee officially in post as Musical Director this Sunday (11th September 2022), competing at the Dr Martin Wainstone Cup in Yarm. The band’s management team would like to take a moment to thank all Musical Director auditionees and also conductors such as Gareth Brindle for their efforts and flexibility in ensuring the smooth rehearsal of the band and the ability to fulfil our engagements during this process.

The band are currently inviting applications for the vacancy of Principal Cornet, apply in confidence using info@milnrowband.co.uk or call Natalie Beer on 07795 148620.