5 Sept 2025
Rockingham Brass Band has today announced, with sadness, that Musical Director Adam Whittle will be stepping down at the end of December 2025 after an incredible decade leading the band.
Adam first joined Rockingham, based in Hoyland, Barnsley, on 15th October 2015, originally attending a rehearsal to play trombone. By chance, when the proposed new conductor did not attend, Adam stepped in to take the rehearsal – and was promptly offered the position of Musical Director. At just 23 years old, he became the youngest MD in the band’s history.
Under his leadership, the band quickly began to thrive. In his very first year, Adam guided Rockingham to qualify for the National Championships, rebuilding the band from October to March. That performance was made even more memorable by winning the Best Percussion award – with two of the three percussionists having never played before!
Over the past 10 years, Adam has transformed the band’s fortunes and overseen some incredible achievements, including:
Rebuilding the band from just eight players in 2015, with five of those original members still in the band today.
Leading the band to two promotions, seven podium finishes, and seven top-six results – making him Rockingham’s most successful MD since Graham O’Connor.
Returning the band to the Second Section for the first time since 2011.
Guiding the band to third place at the 2024 Regional Qualifiers.
Maintaining a near-full band throughout his tenure, creating a strong and loyal membership base.
Building lasting friendships and ensuring a planned handover to the next MD, reflecting his professionalism and commitment.
Band Chairman Alex Parker paid tribute to Adam’s contribution:
“We are incredibly grateful for Adam’s 10 years at Rockingham, building the band up from just eight players at a time that could very easily have seen the band disappear, to a very pleasing performance at last year’s regional qualification with a full band of members on stage.”
He added:
“We are also so pleased to be parting as friends and appreciate being able to run an orderly and planned recruitment process and handover for our new MD. This speaks only to Adam’s professionalism in his approach to banding.”
Reflecting on his decision, Adam Whittle said:
“It’s just time for a rest! Rockingham Band has been the most challenging but rewarding project of my career. A partnership that has spanned 10 years, with continuous improvement, great musicians and friendship at its core. I wish nothing but the best for the band and its members going forward and I sincerely hope that a new baton will see continued improvement for the band as a whole.”
Adam leaves with the best wishes of all members, and Rockingham Brass Band now looks forward to building on his legacy as they prepare to appoint a new Musical Director.
The band is now inviting applications for a new MD. Applications close on 10th November, with auditions scheduled for Sunday 30th November. Full details, including a job description and application process, can be found on the band’s website and social media: www.rockinghamband.com.
For further information, please contact Band Chair Alex Parker at Alexander.s.parker@gmail.com. All applications will be treated in the strictest confidence.