The Wakefield Metropolitan Brass Band is delighted to announce the appointment of Michael Dodd as it’s new Musical Director.
Having worked closely with Duncan Beckley at Horbury Victoria Band for several years, Michael’s appointment represents a natural progression in continuing the legacy Duncan established at Wakefield.
Michael began playing at the age of 11 with the Grimethorpe Junior Band. He went on to study for his degree and L.R.S.M. in Band Mastership under the late Major Peter Parkes at Sheffield University, while receiving euphonium tuition from Billy Miller and Professor Nicholas Childs.
After gaining valuable experience with bands such as Carlton Main Frickley and Brighouse & Rastrick, Michael joined the Grimethorpe Colliery Band in 1998. He remained with Grimethorpe for 22 years, until the end of 2019, when he decided to take a break from playing. Following the pandemic, as bands were able to reunite, Michael embraced a new venture. Alongside joining the senior band at Horbury Victoria Band, where Duncan Beckley was the conductor, he took on the role of Musical Director for the Horbury Victoria learner, intermediate, and youth bands – a position he continues to hold.
Michael has over 30 years’ experience as a peripatetic brass teacher, tutor, and conductor, working with various music services, universities, and schools. He has also tutored and conducted at both the National Youth Brass Band of Great Britain and the National Children’s Brass Band of Great Britain.
Reflecting on his appointment, Michael said, “I am truly honoured and excited to take on the role of conductor for this talented brass band. I look forward to working closely with the musicians, building on our strengths, and achieving great successes together in the future. I can’t wait to see what we accomplish as a team.”
