MUSICIAN Chris Wormald who has inspired generations of young people — from all backgrounds — to pick up an instrument has now taken his passion for music on the national stage.
The musical director of Eagley Band has been banging the drum for brass bands on Sky Arts.
Chris is featured in the first episode in the Battle of the Brass Bands, which has now been nominated for a prestigious BAFTA. He is interviewed on the programme about the Whit Friday march contests and filmed adjudicating.
Read more: I'm a musician – not a music teacher, says Chris
The former Smithills School teacher provides insight, comment and context on the contests and the bands themselves.
Chris said he delighted that the programme had been nominated for the award, the Oscars of British television, film and arts.
He said: "I think exposure of brass bands in the media and television has been limited.
"The whole genre needs exposure so young players come through I was thrilled to be interviewed as part of the programme, which is again showing this week. It was a wonderful experience and for it to be nominated for a BAFTA is a nice surprise."
The nomination comes on the 15th anniversary of when Chris led Smithills School Brass Band to their first World Championship victory. Through the school band, some have gone on to be world class musicians and some now play in Eagley Band.
Chris said he regularly gets feedback on how playing in a band has led to those young people developing the confidence to be hugely successful in their chosen careers.
The episode has been nominated in the Sound Factual category and is up against three other productions including One Planet. The awards are due to take place next month. Past ceremonies have been hosted by high profile figures including Stephen Fry.
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