Paul Holland - Musical Director

Originally from South Wales and now residing in Gloucester, Paul is in demand as a Conductor and Adjudicator throughout Europe.

As a player Paul enjoyed considerable concert and contest success with the Black Dyke Band and made several CD, radio and television appearances with celebrities such as Elton John, Jools Holland, Tori Amos, The Beautiful South and Sting.  Paul was fortunate to be part of the team that made the Brass Band “Grand Slam” holding the European, British Open and National Titles in the same year.   Whilst studying music in Huddersfield University Paul also played with YBS, Brighouse and Rastrick, Grimethorpe and Foden’s bands when available.

As a Conductor Paul’s main influence and passion for conducting came from observing James Watson during his tenure at Black Dyke. After graduating from University Paul returned to Wales and spent six years as Musical Director of the Newbridge band where he led them through a period of unparalleled success in their history; notably Champion Band of Wales on 4 occasions and Champion Band of Great Britain 2nd section. He also led the band from 3rd section to Championship during that time.

As Musical Director of the Flowers band together they continue to re-write their own record books achieving their highest ever results at the National Championships of Great Britain, British Open and Brass in Concert Championships.  Paul became the first conductor to achieve seven West of England regional titles (five consecutive), the only conductor to have six wins (including a hat trick) at the popular, and lucrative, Butlin’s Mineworkers contest as well as three French

Open titles and a hat trick at Yeovil Entertainment Contest.  In addition, he has won the Grand Shield, British Open Senior Trophy and had podium places in all UK major competitions.  In addition he has won the Dutch National Championships with the Schoonhoven Band and has had conducting success in Norway in the Elite division.

As an Adjudicator Paul enjoys an active schedule of appointments at home and abroad.  He has adjudicated at the very highest level including the British Open, British Open Spring Festival, National Championships of Great Britain, the innovative SIDDIS contest in Norway, the Swiss Open, the Swiss National Championships, The French National Championships, Butlin’s Mineworkers, as well as contests in Denmark and Lithuania amongst many other competitions peppered throughout Europe.

Paul is a busy Conductor, Adjudicator and member of the Association of Brass Band Adjudicators (AoBBA); an executive member of the National Association of Brass Band Conductors and a former member of the music panel for Kapitol Promotions.