David, aged 9

 

Before David embarked on his professional musical career he received much of his experience and training from playing with a number of Brass Bands. It taught him the discipline that he still looks back on, describing  it as a 'vital' part of his music development.

At the age of ten, David received guidance and tuition from the  late Major Arthur Kenney, ex-music director of the Welsh Guards and at that time, conductor of the Cory Band, who under his leadership were the current National Champion Band of Great Britain. Besides his private tuition from the 'Major', together with sitting in on weekly rehearsals with Cory, combined with membership of the Welsh Champion band, Parc & Dare, it provided David with his first experiences of studio & live recordings. It also gave him the opportunities of performing regularly in concerts and competitions in some of the finest concert halls throughout Europe.

It was, however, at the age of twelve that David came into contact with James Watson, international Trumpet soloist, Principal Trumpet of the Royal Opera House Orchestra, Professor of Brass at the Royal Academy of Music & Conductor. It was with James' musical insight, knowledge and inspiration that David progressed further, always turning to James for advice and guidance. It was James who was to remain as David's mentor throughout his music career.

Whilst a student in London, David joined James Watson and his triple National Champion Band, Desford Colliery Band (whom James conducted). Then in 1992, following James' appointment as Director of Music with Black Dyke Band, David was invited to join on Timpani & Percussion, where he remained for 10 years. It was with this legendary and world famous band that David contributed to many winning contest performances at the British Open, National Championship Finals & European Championships (winning the 'Grand Slam' in 1995) as well making numerous radio & T.V broadcasts and C.D & film recordings. He also toured with the band extensively throughout Europe, USA, Bermuda & Canada.

 

 

Black Dyke Band, 1992 British Open Champions. (Dave is in the top row, 3rd from left)

'...a special mention must be made of the timpani playing of David Griffiths. If only all brass band timpanists could make a sound like this'...'without doubt, the finest Timpanist in the Brass Band World today.' Rodney Newton, ex-timpanist E.N.O & Composer

 

It was whilst playing with Black Dyke that David became close friends with Euphonium virtuoso, Robert Childs who after ten years with 'Dyke' embarked on his successful Musical Directorship of the Cory Band, with whom, were to gain the prestigious status and ranking as the Finest Brass Band in the World, following the bands return to 'winning' ways. Subsequently, with Robert's move to Cory Band, David was invited to become the band's Principal Timpanist and performed with the band for a number of years whenever his professional commitments allowed.

David was recently invited to share his views and expertise which have been published in a range of formats, including with the most popular brass band website, 4BarsRest, all of which have been well received.