Checkmate! Wallace Returns for National Showdown
- Lewis Catto
- Jul 10
- 2 min read
Granite City Brass is delighted to confirm that Bruce Wallace will return in the role of professional conductor for the National Brass Band Championships First Section Finals in Cheltenham this September.
Bruce, who stepped down as Musical Director earlier this year after more than a decade with the band, led Granite City Brass to a commanding victory at the Scottish Championships in March. That performance secured qualification for the National Finals—earning the band a place among the top First Section contenders in the UK.
Although no longer Musical Director, Bruce brings a wealth of contest experience and a deep knowledge of the band. His return to the podium marks a fitting continuation of the journey he helped shape.
Granite City Brass was pleased to announce Alan Haggart as its new Musical Director last month. A familiar and respected figure in Scottish banding, Alan brings both musical leadership and performance excellence. For this contest, he will take up the Solo Horn seat, while the band is thrilled that Calum Booth has agreed to return to play Soprano Cornet.
🎼 The Test Piece: Three of the Four Dances from Checkmate
At the heart of this year’s First Section contest is Arthur Bliss’s dramatic ballet suite, Three of the Four Dances from Checkmate arranged by Eric Ball. With its bold orchestration and theatrical energy, the piece presents a rewarding challenge for bands heading to Cheltenham. Preparations are already well underway, with Bruce leading the band in rehearsals alongside Alan throughout Summer, as we bring this striking music to life.
Alan Haggart said:
“Bruce knows the band inside out, and we’re really enjoying working together as we get into the detail of the piece. Rehearsals are focused, productive, and full of positive energy.”
This partnership between Bruce and Alan reflects a wider sense of continuity and renewal at Granite City Brass: drawing on long-standing foundations while embracing a refreshed musical direction.
🎺 Support Granite City Brass on the Road to Cheltenham
It will cost around £10,000 to get the band to Cheltenham—covering transport, accommodation, and new off-stage fleeces to help the band look the part as well as sound it. Granite City Brass is inviting individual donations and corporate sponsorship to help make the journey possible.
💳 One-off donations can be made at: 👉 www.granitecitybrass.co.uk/donate
🤝 A range of sponsorship packages is available, from £50 to £5,000, offering opportunities for individuals, businesses, and organisations to support the band and gain visibility in return. A full corporate sponsorship package is available here: 👇
Granite City Brass is proud to represent the North East of Scotland on the national stage once again—and is working hard to make this a performance to remember. With your support, we’ll get there in style.
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