Kibworth Band are delighted to announce the appointment of Otis as our new Principal Cornet. His arrival marks an exciting moment for the band as it continues to champion young talent and strengthen its musical leadership.
Otis began playing the cornet in Year 5 and quickly found his musical home with the Melton Training Band under the guidance of Helen Ruddle. Her encouragement, alongside the support of his teacher Zoli Vincze, has been instrumental in his development and continues to inspire him today.
Speaking about his appointment, Otis said: “I am thrilled and honoured to have accepted the position of Principal Cornet with the Kibworth Band. I am really looking forward to working together with our fab MD Brendan Caddy and the wonderful musicians of Kibworth band. I would like to take this opportunity to say thank you to everyone in the band, who have always been wonderfully supportive and loads of fun to play with. I look forward to some great performances for both concerts and contests, and making some great new memories together – both in and out of the band room.”
Since those early days, Otis has become a familiar face across Leicestershire’s music scene. He has performed with Uppingham Jazz and Soul Band, Leicestershire Music Big Band, JCC Big Band, Youth Brass 2000 and Bardi Wind Orchestra. His orchestral experience includes appearances with the Bardi Orchestra, Trent Orchestra and Stamford Chamber Orchestra. He is equally at home in popular and commercial music, having played with The Leicester Funk Ensemble and Direct Injection, and recorded flugelhorn and trumpet parts on professional pop and rock tracks. Otis proudly plays Mercer and Barker mouthpieces and represents the company as one of their Young Ambassadors.
Brendan Caddy, Musical Director, added: “Otis represents the very best of the youth coming through our banding community. His musicianship, work ethic and enthusiasm are exactly what we want to encourage and celebrate. I am proud to welcome him to the front row and proud of the young players who continue to move our band forward.”
Away from music, Otis enjoys competitive target shooting with his Grandad as part of the Leicester and District Smallbore Rifle and Pistol Club.
We look forward to the energy, commitment and musical leadership Otis will bring to the Principal Cornet seat as the band continues its work across the community and prepares for an exciting season ahead.
