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 success with Black Dyke Band and made several CDs, radio and television appearances with celebrities such as; Elton John, Jools Holland, 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 where possible.

As a Conductor Paul’s main influence and passion for conducting came from 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 four occasions and Champion Band of Great Britain 2nd section. He also led the band from third section to Championship during that time.

As Musical Director of the Flowers band together they re-wrote their own record books achieving their highest ever results at the National Championships of Great Britain, British Open and Brass in Concert Championships. as well as a qualification to the 2026 European Championships. Paul became the first conductor to achieve; seven West of England regional titles (five consecutive), a hat trick of Yeovil Entertainment titles and five wins (including a hat trick) at the popular, and lucrative, Butlin’s Mineworkers contest. In addition, he made 2014 an historic year for Flowers winning all of the above mentioned titles and the Grand Shield, followed by a third place in the British Open that year.

As an adjudicator Paul enjoys an ever increasing schedule of appointments. He has adjudicated at 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 in Denmark and Lithuania amongst other competitions throughout Europe.

Paul is a busy conductor, adjudicator, and executive member of the National Association of Brass Band Conductors.

 
A wonderful performance with great playing and a masterful interpretation - the band really ‘tell the story’... thank you
— Dr Stephen Cobb - National Finals 2024