Colin Cranson
16 Lime Close
Sandbach
Cheshire
CW11 1BZ

Telephone: 01270 764096

Colin Cranson hails from the North East and was born in County Durham. It was at the tender age of nine that he became involved with brass bands. His very first instrument was the Cornet, which he played when he joined the Blackhall Salvation Army Band.

Five years later at the age of fourteen Colin transferred to Euphonium. He soon progressed to Hartlepool Silver Band, and later to Blackhall Colliery Band in which he occupied the Principal Euphonium chair.

In 1968 Colin was invited to join the famous Foden Motor Works Band, and his decision to accept their offer meant leaving the North East and moving to Sandbach. He was duly appointed Principal Euphonium, a position he filled with distinction until 1977. Colin was then engaged as their Bandmaster until 1979.

Colin (second from left) after winning the 1976 National Quartet Championship with members of the Foden Motor Works Band

Colin has conducted the Roberts Bakery Band (formerly Middlewich Town Band) since 1972, and became full time Musical Director upon leaving Fodens in 1979. In 2002 he celebrated his 30th year with the band, an achievement in its own right, and he is still going strong today. A special concert is planned to celebrate his 40th year with the band, and 125 years of Roberts Bakery, in 2012.

Colin is the President of local youth organisation Lions Youth Brass. Many former Lions have gone on to make a name for themselves with the Roberts Bakery Band and this continues to be a natural progression for these young players.

Colin was married to Brenda, who was the band's treasurer since Colin has conducted the band. They were together for many years and have two children, Paul and Karen. However in October 2005, Brenda sadly passed away.

It was a great loss to Colin and the band. She will always be missed very much. Colin would like to thank everyone who sent him and his family cards at the time. His family play an important role in his life and they are very supportive of his work with the Band.

During his time with the Roberts Bakery Band, Colin has had considerable success in the contest arena. Under his leadership, the band has only once competed outside of the top two sections in the last 30 years. The band has made several radio broadcasts and to date ten recordings.