The Bb Tuba (1) seat is generously sponsored in memory of John Holt

Bill joined Leyland in 1987 and has variously occupied all four seats in the tuba section since then! A graduate of Salford College of Technology (now the University of Salford), he was the recipient of the highly regarded Harry Mortimer prize for best instrumentalist. In the same year, Bill also deputised for the Hallé Orchestra on several occasions.

Since joining Leyland, Bill has served as the band’s principal tuba (1989-1995) and, since 1999, in his current position as first B flat tuba. He counts winning the British Open Championships (1994) and the National Championships (2005) amongst the highlights of his playing career at Leyland. Bill is currently enjoying presenting a wide variety of specialist B flat tuba solos to Leyland Band audiences; rumours of a solo CD continue to circulate!

Bill is head of music at a secondary school and lives near Wigan with his long-suffering wife, Jo, and their large brood of children. When he isn’t at band or entertaining his significant offspring, Bill can be found at the DW Stadium cheering on the Latics (Wigan Athletic to the uninitiated).