John Needham
3rd Cornet

John started playing in 1962 in the Poynton School Band on Soprano Cornet under the baton of Charles Holt. He joined the Withinlee Band Prestbury and later the Macclesfield New Band.

In 1973 he became one of the original players in the reformed Bollington Brass Band. He became the bands Principle Cornet in the late 1970's and chairman of the band. In the 80's he joined the New Mills Band and then the Burbage Band Buxton under the baton of his his father in law Don Redfern. His late wife Melanie also played with the band on Tenor Horn.

He returned to Bollington under the musical directorship of Brian Taylor and Bob Wyatt. At this time the band progressed into the 1st section and he conducted the Bollington Training Band. Many of his youngsters progressed up to the senior band.

"I enjoy playing with the VBS Brass Band and hopefully they will soon get back into the championship section". says John. His girlfriend Noelle had never seen, let alone heard, a brass band until meeting him. Now she helps the friends of the VBS Brass Band commitee and never misses a concert.

His favourite test piece is Whitsun Wakes.