Paul Barrett

2nd Euphonium

Banding History

Originally from Scarborough, Paul started playing the drums aged 6, and was later introduced to cornet at the age of 8 by his dad (who now plays trombone with Kirkbymoorside Town Brass Band), who was determined to make his obsession with brass banding rub off on his son and daughter, despite their early protestations (it worked!)

Paul grew up through the ranks of Kirkbymoorside Junior brass band from the age of 9, later joining the senior band aged 13. After struggling to make a decent sound from a cornet Paul worked his way down the band (from horn to baritone), eventually progressing to solo euphonium which he played for several years. His proudest moment in banding was winning the 2004 1st section area and subsequent trip to the national finals in Harrogate. It was a great final year with the band he had played with since childhood.

In 2005, Paul moved to Wakefield for a new job and had an enjoyable year with the Yorkshire Co-op band. He moved to Stoke-on-trent in 2006 to complete his doctorate studies, playing with the United 2000 Co-op Crewe band for 3 years. Paul has fond memories of this band; the players readily made him feel welcome in what was an unfamiliar area of the country.

After finishing his studies, he moved back ‘up north’ to live with his girlfriend, joining Drighlington Band in October 2009. He is happy to be playing back in the championship section and is looking forward to future contests with the band.

Professional

Paul works as a Clinical Psychologist in the NHS.

Hobbies

Paul enjoys banding (obviously!), going to the gym and real ale!