Tariq Ahmed
Tariq’s life in Brass Banding started at primary school when a Tenor Horn was randomly passed to him, from a selection of brass instruments that the school had in stock. He stuck with the Tenor Horn from that moment on, progressing through the Blackburn and Darwen Junior Band and going on to join the Lancashire Youth Band on Principal Horn.
After progressing through Blackburn and Darwen’s ‘B’ band and establishing himself in the ‘Senior’ band, Tariq eventually joined the Freckleton Band, with whom he had the memorable experience of winning the 1st section National finals.
Tariq enjoyed significant spells with the Wingates, Besses o’th’ Barn and Leyland Bands. Highlights included several CD and BBC Radio 2 recordings, European tours, appearances at the British Open Brass Band Contest and winning the North West Regionals with Leyland under Garry Cutt. Some of the more eccentric moments were playing a solo dressed as Dorothy from the Wizard of Oz and posing for a ‘Calendar Girls’ inspired photoshoot, standing on top of a tank in Skegness!
Tariq’s conducting experience began with the Blackburn and Darwen ‘B’ Band. He was appointed as Musical Director of Blackpool Brass in 2011 and achieved significant contest successes over a three-year period. This included 1st places at the Northern Open, Fleetwood Contest and Brass At The Guild.
Following a relocation to London, Tariq was appointed Resident Conductor at Staines Brass in January 2020. He is now delighted to be working with Richmond Brass Band and helping them on their rebuilding journey.