Christopher McLelland - Solo Cornet
Chris began playing the trumpet at the age of 11 under the tuition of Eric Smith, a talented jazz musician from the Gordon Tetley Band.
He then moved on to play tenor horn and joined the brass banding life under the guidance of Ann Hardy and Chris Wood, both talented players with involvement with the Queensbury Band and Hammonds Sauce Works Band. Chris played with Queensbury Music Centre junior band and Hammonds Junior B Band. At Hammonds, Chris crossed paths with Mark Naylor on percussion (currently at Driffield Silver Band). Due to the hard work and high standard needed at Hammonds Chris improved quickly through hours of practicing and dedication. Chris enjoyed many years of concerts and competing.
Chris enjoyed playing in the Bradford Metropolitan Youth Orchestra but brass banding was his passion.
Chris took pride when taking part in several slow melody competitions with Queensbury Music Centre and it became apparent his quality of technical improvement and sound.
Chris standard of playing increased and he moved onto 2nd baritone in The Queensbury Band. Chris took part in several recordings with the band which he enjoyed. The band progressed through the sections until the Championship section was reached, playing against Black Dyke, Brighouse and Rastick was a nerve racking experience.
Chris had a year in Peru with his family enjoying the sights, traditional culture, and getting to his wider family. He had expert tuition from Conservatorio de Musiic Lima Peru which increased Chris playing technique and stamina. Chris had the opportunity to busk on the busy streets of Lima which gave him an insight of different ways of life.
Chris returned home in 2018 to Driffield and began playing with the Driffield Silver Band September.
In 2019 Chris joined the front row of cornets.