Paul Duffy
Soprano Cornet

Paul has been playing with Black Dyke since 2006, moving to soprano cornet in 2007. He is completing a music technology degree at Salford University where he also studies jazz trumpet with Neil Yates.

At the age of 7, Paul began to play the cornet with St Helens Youth Brass Band conducted by Lynda Nicholson. Lynda taught him from a very early age for 10 years, and this developed to him playing principal cornet with the Haydock Band from St Helens. In 2003 Paul auditioned for and joined the National Youth Brass Band Of Great Britain, and in 2007 became principal cornet and leader of the band. During this time Paul played principal cornet on their latest CD release 'Masters Of Space And Time' and won the highly prestigious Harry Mortimer solo award.

Now Paul is creating an impressive reputation for himself on soprano cornet, enjoying his first success with the band in October 2008 when they won their 21st National Championship. Paul was voted Black Dyke Bandsman of the Year for 2008, described by Dr Nicholas Childs as "a person who has shown incredible diligence in developing into an extraordinary talent." This coveted award is voted for by the players of the band, and always reflects a player who is held in consistently high esteem by their peers throughout the year. Paul was also voted 'Newcomer of the year 2008' on the popular brass band website 4barsrest for his contributions on Soprano Cornet.