Chris was born in Sidmouth in 1975 and can be said to be a true ‘Sidmouthian’. He started playing trombone in 1985 after he had found a battered old trombone in the music room cupboard at School and his music teacher suggested he might like lessons. School had a lot to answer for and some still wish the cupboard had been locked – namely the Eb horns sitting in front of him today! A year after first finding ‘that’ trombone, the Bb bass player, Keith Roberts (also Chris’ PE teacher!) ‘recruited’ him into the Sidmouth Town Band. He has been the Band Secretary, and in 2007 was elected to become the Band’s new Chairman.
Chris started playing on 2nd trombone under the baton of Andrew Nicholson. He moved from 2nd to bass trombone in 1988 under conductor Andrew Lettern and he remained there until he became the band’s principal trombone in 1991, a position he has held to date. In 1988 and 1990 he travelled with the band to London when they qualified for the National Fourth Section Brass Band Championship finals at Westminster Central Hall.
Chris is self confessed as being a ‘little old fashioned’ and is particularly keen to see that everything is done ‘by the book’. His diplomatic skills have often proved to be very useful – especially with the over zealous brass band contest official!
Chris has also acted and sung in local musical and stage productions. He is a keen fisherman and loves the sun, sea and beach at Sidmouth. His all time favourite piece of music is Nimrod from the Enigma variations. He works as an Officer for East Devon District Council.
Chris has commented:
“I owe a lot to Sidmouth Town Band, who have been a great group of friends for much of my life, and have enabled me to take part in a great musical experience”.
Martin (Spoons) Cordy [2nd Trombone]
Having joined the band mid way through 2005 I am looking forward to a third full summer season, and hoping for it to be more 2006 than 2007 weather wise! Having blagged my way through my part for 3 years, I am hoping that my good fortune will continue and I won’t be identified as the fraud that I really am! Being sat within the tallest and best brewing section really does not give any room to hide! Having made improvements (as have the rest of the band) over the past few years, I am seeking out the allusive top B and C’s to add to my collection of noises so that some of the pieces don’t look quite so scary!
Tissues anyone??
Joel Stephano [Bass Trombone]
The trombone was my first choice of brass instrument when I was given the chance to learn at my primary school in 2001 at the age of 9. After moving to secondary school, I met 'Miss Bell' (see Fiona in Cornets section) who introduced me to the band. I started off in the Junior Band, until a vacancy was available due to the then current bass trombonist, Ray Dodd leaving due to personal reasons. I have been enjoying the challenge of playing ever since!
I am currently studying Maths, Physics, Chemistry and Music for A-Levels at Colyton Grammar School. Other interests of mine include playing piano, percussion and ridiculously high notes on tenor trombone when playing jazz!
