Haydn the musical director started playing at the age of 6 and was a member of the Markham Main Colliery Band at 7, his first engagement being the Silver Jubilee in May 1935. He was appointed principal cornet at the early age of 14 and by this time was in great demand as a guest soloist in and around South Yorkshire. His versatility enabled him to play in most of the local dance bands and orchestra’s including solo trumpet on Handels Messiah. His first live broadcast was with the Grimethorpe Colliery Band at the age of 17, with only a balance test for the rehearsal. Carlton Main, Cresswell and Grimethorpe colliery bands were forever requesting his assistance.
At 19 Haydn was appointed Assistant Bandmaster of Markham Main Colliery Band and Bandmaster at 29, a member for 32 years, guiding them to many National Championships, during the late 50’s and 60’s.
Arranging music for brass band has taken quite a lot of his time and to date has over 1200 arrangements. At 27 years of age Haydn was appointed Musical Director of Hatfield Colliery Band and achieved many successes.
Teaching in the local schools for 39 years Haydn has taught many children some of them still playing today.
In 1966 he decided to concentrate on the youngsters of the local village and at one time had 57 members in his Junior Band. Haydn has also adjudicated at many competitions around the country and has just completed 74 years in music.
Another great moment for Haydn was when he was invited to conduct the world famous Black Dyke Mills Band during a concert at Selby Abbey.
Haydn was honoured with the MBE in the Queens 2002 New Years Honours list for his Services to the Armthorpe Elmfield Band and the Community of Doncaster and South Yorkshire.
Brass Bands that Haydn has played with as a guest:
Thorne Colliery Band, Pilkingtons Works Band, Hickleton Main, Bullcroft Colliery, Bentley Colliery, Askern Colliery, Yorkshire Main, Firbeck Colliery, Rossington Colliery, Harworth Colliery, British Ropes, Hade Edge, Grimethorpe, Carlton Main Frickly, Cresswell.
Brass bands that Haydn Has conducted:
Markham, Hatfield, Askern, Thorne Town, Pilkingtons, Brodsworth, Rossington, Maltby, Thurcroft, Black Dyke.
Dance Bands that Haydn has played with:
Blue Quavers, Blue Rhythm, High Hatters, Mervyn Milton, Maurice Potter, Grand Embassy, Bullers, Bob Housley, Alex Berry, Eric Richbell - Orchestras—Hyde Park Orchestra, Elmfield House Orchestra, + many others for shows, concerts etc.