Watford Band

Watford Band, a brass band with more than one hundred years of history are pleased to announce the appointment of a new musical director, who played at the Queen's Silver Jubilee and at a royal wedding.

Ian Graves has taken up the position in the Watford Band, a group of brass instrument players who perform at shows and galas across Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire and Buckinghamshire.
Mr Graves started his musical career playing the cornet with Newark Town Band, with Watford Band's current treasurer Alan Pearce.

In 1974 he joined the Band of The Life Guards to start what was going to be a 26 year career. As he would be performing on horse back, Mr Graves had to take equestrian lessons.
During his 26 year career he attended many ceremonial parades including “Trooping the Colour” and the Queen’s Silver Jubilee celebrations. He also acted as State Trumpeter at Charles and Diana’s wedding.
Mr Graves achieved the position of principal cornet in the band, which he maintained for 15 years until his retirement.

He was appointed Trumpet Major in the early 1990s, and having attended the Band Sergeant Major's course at Kneller Hall he was promoted to Band Corporal Major.
Since his retirement from the Army Ian has conducted a few bands in the South of England as well as currently playing with the Staines Band. Ian is in a relationship with Katie Baldwin, a cornet player, and another ex Newark Town Band player.

Ian says he was very much looking forward to his new post, particularly in promoting young talent and will be encouraging the young element of Watford Band.