Last Christmas we had to say farewell to our conductor, Arnie Bibby who retired. He had conducted the band for several periods from 1988 and full-time since 2016. We would like to thank him for all his hard work and support and wish him a very happy retirement!
Arnold Bibby
Presentation made to Arnie Bibby by our Chair, David Perfect on 20th December 2023.
OUR CONDUCTOR - Derek Braddick
Derek started learning the piano aged 9 and at 16 the clarinet. By 19 he was solo clarinettist for the Queens Territorial Army Band. When they disbanded in 1964 he joined the Surrey Yeomanry and continues to play with them on alto saxophone.
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Derek is a busy man! As well as conducting the Merton Concert Band, he is the lead conductor for the Allegra Concert Band and on occasions conducts the Surrey Yeomanry.
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When he’s not conducting, Derek continues his passion for music by passing on his musical abilities by teaching clarinet and piano.
