Andi Cook

Andi joined Milnrow in April 2019, arriving from Yorkshire Imperial after around 20 years playing in Yorkshire bands. Milnrow is the first venture “over t’other side o’ th’ill”, and it has felt like home ever since.

Brass playing started for Andi for a very practical reason: boredom. After spending too long waiting around at gigs while dating a cornet player in an entry‑level band, an old Eb bass and a “Tune a Day, Book 1” appeared, and the problem was solved. It turned out that low notes suited Andi better than high ones, and the move to BB bass followed.

As well as playing, Andi is also a writer and arranger. Proud musical moments include the charity hymn “Manchester” being played all over the world to raise money for victims of the attacks, and a piece called “An Anchor for the Soul” becoming the regular anthem at the annual Lost Trawlermen’s Service for City of Hull Band.

With Milnrow, the last rehearsal before Christmas at the cricket club is always a standout – equal parts festive magic and glorious chaos.

What Andi loves most about Milnrow is the people. They will pick you up when you are down, laugh with you (and at you) when something goes wrong, accept you as you are, and make you feel part of the team – even if you are a self‑confessed, full‑strength geek.

Off the stand, Andi loves old cars and motorbikes. Pride of place goes to a rally‑blue Subaru Forester STi and a bright red 1993 Chevrolet Corvette, lovingly looked after when banding allows.