Derek Topp

Derek began playing when he was eight. He was invited to the bandroom (a wooden hut with a corrugated roof in those days) by his father and was taught by Wilf Parsons. He started on the cornet and joined the band on 3rd cornet, but over the years he has played the Baritone, Tenor Horn, Euphonium and, for one Christmas, E flat Bass

He left Michelmersh in 1986 to join Downton Huntsman and during his time with them qualified for the National Finals, held in London, by becoming West of England 2nd Section Champions and promotion to the Championship Section. At the National Finals, Downton Huntsman were only beaten by Sellers College Brass and Marple Band. After leaving Downton Derek played with New Forest Brass, returned to Michelmersh then moved on to Sandleheath.

Derek returned to Michelmersh on 2nd Baritone to cover a period of maternity leave, and is still with the band today!