The Horn Section

There are many different kinds of horn in the world but the two that are traditionally seen in brass bands are the Tenor Horn and the Flugel Horn,

In a typical Brass Band there are three Tenor Horn players (Solo, 1st and 2nd) and once Flugel Horn player.

Gemma Whittle- Flugel Horn

Gemma joined the band in 2008 and has remained with Rockingham ever since, becoming one of the core 8 when our rebuild began. Now living with her partner, our Director of Music, she has no escape from band. But when she does, she works in physiotherapy.

Sophie Holling - Solo Horn

Sophie returned to the band late 2018 and at 27 years of age, She has been playing almost 20 years! Besides being an outstanding musician, Sophie enjoys baking and can provide personalised cakes for all occasions to order (they’re very good so keep her in mind for the future)

Ian McKay - 1st Horn

Ian started his musical career at the age of 8, joining the Stannington training band and later Stannington main band, between 16 and 18. After studying music under cornet star, Richard Marshall, Ian moved to Bangor University in Wales. Here he took the Solo Horn chair and Librarian position with the University band before moving home to start teacher training. On his return, Ian joined the Deepcar band on 2nd horn with quick progression to solo. Joining the Rockingham Band in 2017 on 1st horn, Ian has been part of the bands progress from the 4th to the 2nd section. Outside of the band, Ian is an English teacher and has a keen interest in Sci-fi, literature and poetry writing.

Jacky Wadsworth - 2nd Horn

Jacky started her playing career at Elsecar Main Colliery Silver Prize Band in 1961. Taking inspiration from a school friend, She took up the Tenor Horn on the condition that She ‘Stook at it’. Now 73, She can certainly say She did! Whilst at Elsecar, Jacky met our BBb bass player, Raymond Layte. Little did she know, He would later play Cupid for Jacky and her husband of many years, Dave. Jacky and Dave met when She was 19 and after being set up for a drink by Raymond, the rest is history! The couple later moved to Hoyland and joined Hoyland Town Band (now Strata) where they stayed for 30+ years, joining Rockingham in 2008.

Outside of the band Jacky enjoys Horticulture, dogs, Classical music and learning new languages.

Unknown Fact: Jacky has a motorbike license and used to ride a Honda 50 and 90!