The Musical Director role at NBS Nelson City Brass is currently vacant. If this position interests you, keep an eye out for more information!

In the meantime, we have some great guest conductors joining us:

Mark Carter

Mark Carter is a conductor and trumpet player. He is Sub‑Principal Trumpet with the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra, a position he has held since 1996. Originally from Dorset, UK, he began his musical life in the brass band tradition, playing cornet from the age of seven before studying trumpet at the Royal Academy of Music in London.

Since settling in New Zealand, Mark has established a wide‑ranging career performing with major orchestras in the UK, Australia, South Africa and Asia. Mark is assistant conductor of Stroma, New Zealand’s leading contemporary music ensemble. He is Music Director of both Wellington Youth Orchestra and the Hutt Valley Orchestra. He regularly conducts other orchestral and brass ensembles throughout the country.

Mark teaches at the New Zealand School of Music – Te Kōkī, and is currently Musical Director of the National Youth Brass Band of New Zealand, reflecting his strong commitment to the brass band movement. He is known for his clear, encouraging rehearsal style and his ability to inspire confident, musical performances, making him an ideal choice for the NBS Nelson City Brass Sunday Melodies concert.

Andrew Snell

Originally from Somerset in the UK, Andrew began playing trombone at age 10 before going on to study Band Musicianship at University College, Salford. He then spent 11 years with the internationally renowned Grimethorpe Colliery Band, touring the world and winning both the National Brass Band Championships and the British Open Championships. During this time, he also featured in the iconic film Brassed Off!.

Since moving to New Zealand and Australia, Andrew has built an exceptional reputation as both a conductor and arts leader. He has led championship bands in New Zealand and Australia to multiple major titles, including a record seven Victorian A-Grade State Championships in eight attempts. His leadership roles have also included senior positions with Victorian Opera, Ara Institute of Canterbury, and the Australian Music Examinations Board.

Andrew is deeply passionate about music education and the power of the arts to enrich community life. We are thrilled to welcome him as conductor for the regional competition.