Adjudicator & AoBBA Member

Born in Mansfield, Nottinghamshire, Colum O’Shea developed an early passion for music, beginning on the violin before turning to the cornet at the age of nine. A gifted and committed musician, he progressed rapidly and, in 2007, became the youngest pupil in his school’s history to achieve Grade 8.

Since the age of ten he has since performed with a range of respected ensembles, including Ireland Colliery Band (Chesterfield), Riddings Band, Blidworth Welfare Band, and the internationally renowned Grimethorpe Colliery Band, benefiting from the guidance of leading figures within the movement, both players and conductors.

Appointed Musical Director of Newark & Sherwood Concert Band in 2012, a residency he continues to hold, he has led the ensemble to sustained success at the National Concert Band Festival, recognised both regionally and nationally. He is now in demand as a conductor across brass and wind bands, orchestras, and theatre ensembles.

Colum serves as an Executive Member of the Brass Band Conductors Association, representing the Midlands Region and coordinating the BBCA mentoring programme.

As an adjudicator, he has trained through the Association of Brass Band Adjudicators development programme, confirmed as a member in 2023 and officiates at the Dukinfield Contest (Tameside Whit Friday Brass Band Contest, since 2024), having also been invited to the Drovers Wetherby Contest (2024), and the Yorkshire Regional Brass Band Championships 2026. He has also been invited to adjudicate at many test piece “run-out” events.

Alongside his musical work, he has been active in the funeral profession since 2011 and, in 2021, was appointed to the National Association of Funeral Directors Examinations Board.