Behind the music with Paul White

For the past five years, Paul White has been the repiano cornet with the world-renowned Foden’s Band. In this interview Paul shares his musical journey and personal highlights with us.

Paul’s love for brass music began at home. “My dad was a huge influence,” he recalls. “We’d sit and listen to different types of music together, talking about which instrument was playing and how the music made me feel.” That early passion led Paul, his brother David, and their dad to join the Chadderton and District Band, and they never looked back.

His earliest musical memory is charming and impressive, “My first solo was at the age of seven in Dobcross band club, standing on a table because I was so small! I played Bless This House and just about managed to squeeze out the top Bb at the end!”

Paul’s time with Foden’s Band has been filled with unforgettable moments, but one in particular stands out: “The British Open Championship in 2023, when we won with Thierry Deleruyelle’s masterpiece, Sand and Stars. I still can’t listen to recordings of it without welling up!”

For Paul, the best part of being in a brass band is simple, “Getting to perform in incredible venues, playing stunning and challenging music, with my band family.”

While Paul admits he’s “never been the greatest at practising,” he knows the importance of putting in the work to perform at the highest level. His biggest musical influence is the legendary cornet player, James Shepherd, who he describes as “an unbelievable talent with the most beautiful sound and technique. The nicest man you could ever meet too.”

Paul finds joy in playing all kinds of music, but one recent piece the band has been performing stands out – Ubi Caritas by Foden’s Band’s president and world-renowned composer, Paul Mealor. “Just stunning sounds which really shows off our quiet playing.”

As for the highs and lows of performing? “The best thing for me is sharing the experience with my band family. The worst thing… playing number one at a contest!”

Audiences attending a Foden’s Band concert are in for a treat. “They can look forward to a rich and varied programme,” Paul says. “Whether it’s a delicate solo, a thunderous finale, or a nostalgic tune, an evening with Foden’s leaves audiences uplifted, inspired, and deeply impressed.”

Paul White performs with Foden's Band on Saturday 18 October, 7.30pm at Pudsey Civic Hall. 

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