David Childs Hands Father The Flowers Baton

Dr. Robert Childs is to be appointed Musical Director of the Flowers Band following news that his son, David will relinquish his position as principal conductor following the band’s 50th Anniversary concert in Gloucester Cathedral on 19 May.

Following David’s recent appointment as Euphonium Professor at the University of North Texas, David revealed: “I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my time with Flowers and would like to thank the band and Associate Conductor, Steve Sykes, for their support. However, at this stage I’m delighted to be passing the baton on to my father and wish him and my friends in the band all the success in the world.”

Dr. Childs said: “I’m delighted with the appointment and look forward to working with the band in preparation for our first project together, the British Open Championships.”

No stranger to the British Open, Robert has won the coveted title on 8 occasions, including 6 victories as conductor. Flowers Band Chairman, Mike James enthused: “We are hugely delighted to have secured the services of Dr. Robert Childs – a musician of the highest calibre with vast experience at this level. However, we would also like to thank David for the outstanding contribution he has made during the past 12 months and we wish him every success for the future.”

Dr. Childs will continue to conduct Woodfalls Band, with whom he has had an association for 6 years, until July, and paid tribute to the South West of England outfit concluding: “I’ve enjoyed my time at Woodfalls having been involved in several rewarding projects and made some lasting friends, but it’s fair to say that the commute from South Wales has not been easy. I wish Woodfalls all the best for the future and would like to thank Mr Paul Street for his unstinting support during my time with the band.”

On behalf of the band, Woodfalls Chairman, Remus Sawyerr commented: “In recent years we have enjoyed a close musical relationship with Dr. Childs, benefitting from his expertise on a regular basis. We are sorry to see him depart, but wish him well as he moves on to take up new challenges closer to home.”