Ian Porthouse on leading Tredegar to new heights, thinking outside the box - and having lunch with Bill Nighy | episode 8

Since returning to Tredegar Town Band in 2008, Ian has guided the Welsh band to new heights, enjoying considerable contesting success. Under Ian, Tredegar hasn’t been afraid to think outside the box, from its involvement in the ballet Dark Arteries to recording for TV and film. From getting the thumbs up on Britain’s Got Talent to having lunch with actor Bill Nighy, Ian shares some of his fond memories with the band down the years. He also looks back on some major musical influences, discusses conducting appointments in Austria and the National Youth Brass Band of Scotland – and explains why he doesn’t tend to use a baton. But first, Ian’s reflections on life in lockdown.