Tariq Ahmed - Musical Director

Tariq is an experienced Tenor Horn player and Conductor, originally from Lancashire. His playing experience began at school, with his first band being the Junior Band of the Blackburn and Darwen Band. He then went on to join the Lancashire Youth Band on Principal Horn.

After progressing through Blackburn and Darwen's ‘B’ band and establishing himself in the ‘Senior’ band for several years, Tariq eventually joined the Freckleton Band. Here, he enjoyed his first taste of contest success, winning the 1 st section National finals.

Tariq enjoyed significant spells with several Championship bands in the North West, including Wingates, Besses o’th’ Barn and Leyland. Highlights included several CD & BBC Radio 2 recordings and European tours. He had numerous appearances at the British Open Brass Band Contest, All England Masters, Brass in Concert, the National Finals, Scottish Open and Swiss Open. A particularly memorable moment was winning the North West Regionals with Leyland. He had the privilege of playing under the baton of some distinguished Conductors including Garry Cutt and Richard Evans.

Tariq’s conducting experience began with the Blackburn and Darwen ‘B’ Band. He was appointed as Musical Director of Blackpool Brass in 2011 and achieved significant contest successes over a three- year period. This included 1 st places at the Northern Open, Fleetwood Contest & Brass At The Guild.

Following a relocation to London, Tariq had a spell as Resident Conductor at Staines Brass between 2020 and 2022, and to this day remains Musical Director of their Community Band, Staines Lammas. After working with the Richmond band, he was delighted to take up the Musical Director position with Epsom and Ewell in July 2023.

Tariq works in Financial Services and is married to Vicky, who plays Tenor Horn for Putney and Wimbledon band.