One of Gwynedd’s best-known brass bands has appointed a new director of music.

The famous Royal Oakeley Brass Band from Blaenau Ffestiniog has named Paul Wilson MBE as the band’s director.

Although his family roots originate from Tredegar, he began his musical career playing in brass bands around Lancashire.

By the age of 11, he was the North West Area Junior Solo Champion and joined the Royal Air Force Music Service in 1979.

After an enjoyable 26 years as an RAF musician, Paul retired in 2005 and began a very successful second career as a music teacher and band trainer in Lincolnshire, where many of his pupils gained scholarships to major music institutions, including the world renowned ‘Cheethams’ School of Music.

Paul was awarded his teaching and performing qualifications from the Trinity College, London and the Birmingham Conservatoire. He was presented with the MBE from HM the Queen in 1997.

Paul is very much looking forward to working with Aled Williams, the band’s youth development officer.

He said: “The aim is to provide a grass roots foundation and sound music education for our young brass players to develop and enjoy their music making.

“And also to ensure that the senior band members realise their full potential but most importantly to enjoy making music together and continue the proud tradition laid down by the very first slate mining band, 150 years ago."

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