*
banner

Smithills enjoy conference delight

Smithills School and MD Chris Wormald provide the lessons to the conductors.

Smithills
 

At the recent annual convention of the National Association of Brass Band Conductors held in Blackpool, Smithills School Senior Band and MD Chris Wormald certainly enjoyed their lesson leading roles.

Chris told 4BR that it was an absolute pleasure to teach David Read MBE, Dr Roy Newsome, Colin Hardy and many others in the delights of Sibelius 6 notation software.

Fun

Chris said: "David Read in particular was great fun — 'far from unruly', and set the tone from the outset. On a more serious note, every delegate quickly got to grips with a working capability to use Sibelius and within twenty minutes, self-confessed luddites were thoroughly enjoying making their first ever arrangement using the medium."

To see well known conductors and adjudicators so emotional at the end of the Mahler spoke volumesMD, Chris Wormald

Tears

Following the Sibelius session, Chris conducted his band in a closing concert, which included an impressive performance of the finale of Mahler’s 'Resurrection', which Chris said moved some to tears.

Emotional

Chris told 4BR: "So many people have read about Smithills Senior Band over many years, but this year’s convention was the first time for many to experience its quality at first hand. To see well known conductors and adjudicators so emotional at the end of the Mahler spoke volumes. The immediate standing ovation by the delegates meant a great deal to the band members, as did the wonderful closing address by Dr. Newsome."

Become a supporter and help make our future secure.

4barsrest continues to be a proudly independent voice. There are no paywalls to overcome to be able to enjoy what we do to keep our journalism at the heart of the brass banding world. Support us with a one-off donation or subscribe from just £2.50 per month.

Support us    


Royal Albert Hall

Countdown previews of Symphony in Two Movements

October 5 • There will be a chance to hear how the competitors are getting on with their 'Symphony in Two Movements' preparations ahead of the Royal Albert National Final...


Foden

Foden's set for Regent Hall preview ahead of Albert Hall challenge

October 5 • Foden's Band will be joined by Mike Lovatt for their traditional Regent Hall pre-National preview next weekend.


Steph Wilshaw

Wilshaw looks to boost Audley Community

October 5 • Steph Wilshaw has been appointed the new Musical Director of Audley Community Band.


Fountain City Brass Band

Report & Result: 2025 United States Brass Invitational

October 5 • Fountain City takes the honours in Texas as a new event looks to further boost brass banding growth in the USA.


Regent Hall Concerts - Regent Hall Band of the Salvation Army

Sunday 5 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. WC1 2DJ W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - Academy Symphonic Brass

Friday 10 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. WC1 2DJ W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - Stately Brass Quintet

Friday 10 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. WC1 2DJ W1C2DJ


Contest: National Brass Band Championships of Great Britain

Saturday 11 October • The Royal Albert Hall, Kensington Gore, South Kensington, London SW7 2AP


Hathersage Band - Hathersage Village Autumn Concert

Saturday 11 October • Hathersage Methodist Church, Main Road, Hathersage S32 1BB S32 1BB


Welwyn Garden City Band

October 6 • We are a friendly & sociable Second Section Band with an exciting and varied Christmas season ahead. Due to an employment relocation, we have an immediate vacancy for a FRONT ROW CORNET player.


Tewit Silver Band

October 4 • Principal Eb Bass. Our established bass section are looking for a strong leader to elevate their performance - could that be you? We have an exciting contest schedule including the Scottish Open and and full set of new Besson basses!


Tewit Silver Band

October 4 • Principal Eb Bass. Our established bass section are looking for a strong leader to elevate their performance - could that be you? We have an exciting contest schedule including the Scottish Open and and full set of new Besson basses!


Martin Heartfield

GGSM, ARCM, PGCE
Conductor, Adjudicator, Educationalist


               

 © 2025 4barsrest.com Ltd