JAMES BRICE, the musical director and conductor of Castle Hill RSL Youth Wind Orchestra and North West Wind Ensemble, has been awarded the prestigious 2021 Hills Citizen of the Year. 

At a Hills Council Australia Day Ceremony, James was recognised for the past 16 years of exceptional work with the young and older musicians from the Hills area.

In the past 12 months, he has worked tirelessly to ensure that each of his 100 local musicians have been able to continue to play every week, despite the restrictions imposed through Covid.  James carried out 73 online rehearsals with a participation rate equalling those in venue. He recorded click-track recordings for members to play along with and embarked on major recording projects that have been taken to the world stage.

James is a leader in education and community banding and the Hills area is indeed incredibly fortunate to have him as one of their own.