Meet the Maestro: Matt Brown Appointed Resident Conductor

Raunds Temperance Band are pleased to announce Matt Brown as their new Resident Conductor, continuing the successful partnership alongside Musical Director Jonathan Pippen.

Matt started playing in his home town, Portsmouth. Aged just 16, he joined the Army as a musician and spent 24 years touring the world performing at a variety of events and military occasions, the highlight of which was a tour to Jordan with The Queen. During his military career, Matt studied at the world-famous Royal Military School of Music, Kneller Hall, and was appointed Bandmaster of the Band of The Dragoon Guards, where he saw active service in both Gulf Wars of 1991 and 2003. Following his military career, he turned to teaching and enjoyed many highlights in education. In 2015 he took a sabbatical to study for a Master’s degree at the University of Salford under the tutelage of Dr Brett Baker. Whilst living and working in the north west, Matt played with the Milnrow band at the British Open as well as qualifying for the National Finals. He has also regularly deputised with Leyland, Grimethorpe and Brighouse & Rastrick bands, including appearing on the BBC’s The One Show. With the Hammonds band Matt won the Grand Shield followed by more silverware with Carlton Main Frickley Colliery, GUS and Desford Colliery Bands.

Matt’s conducting career continued after he left the army, principally as Professional Conductor with musical societies in Norfolk. He has also conducted the Milnrow band to podium finishes as well as successes with Bournemouth Concert Band as their Professional Conductor. Matt’s calendar remains busy as a freelance musician performing in a range of ensembles as well as a unique solo act.

Matt is delighted to be part of the Raunds Temperance Band as they look to consolidate their position as a Championship Section band as well as continue their busy schedule of concerts.

The band would like to extend a huge thank you to John Hudson, our Resident Conductor from 2022 - 2026, as he now leaves to spend more time with family and life up North. John contributed so much, including leading us to podium finishes at Leicester Contest, and even bolstering the cornet section when needed! Thank you John, and all the best for the future❤️