*
banner

Results: West Lothian 1st semi final

Major upset in Scotland as Masters champion beaten in West Lothian challenge semi final by Kingdom Brass.

Kingdom
 

There was a major contesting upset in Scotland on the weekend, where the recently crowned All England Masters International champion, Co-operative Funeralcare Band, were beaten into second place in the first semi final of the annual West Lothian Challenge contest.

Victory

Victory on the night went to Kingdom Brass, conducted by Andrew Duncan, as adjudicators Nigel Seaman and Alan Fernie placed the Fife band just ahead of their rivals.

The adjudicator stated in his remarks that it had been remarkably close between the two bands technically, but Kingdom had won out on pure entertainment value.

The adjudicator stated in his remarks that it had been remarkably close between the two bands technically, but Kingdom had won out on pure entertainment value4BR

Pizzazz

Kingdom overcame a one point deficit in points of music with a three point margin for that ‘pizzazz’ factor to give then a memorable two point winning margin.

Double delught

The third band to compete in the first semi-final was Bon Accord Silver Band who represented Scotland in the recent European Championships at Linz, so it was a double delight for Kingdom, who now took their place in the final at Howden Park in Livingston on the 27th June.

Programme

Kingdom’s inventive programme saw them open with 'A Caledonian Suite', followed by the 'Harry James Trumpet Concerto', 'The Duke of Cambridge March', 'Tonight', 'Keystone Cops', 'Alloway Tales', 'Claire de Lune' and 'Reunion and Finale'.

Reprise

The Masters champion, whose conductor Michael Fowles stated just a week ago that they, 'wouldn't be taking anything for granted' reprised much of their Kettering Gala Concert programme, whilst Bon Accord’s spirited performance was highlighted by a fine performance of ‘Benedictus’ from the ‘Armed Man’ by euphonium player Richard Kidd.

The second semi-final will be held this weekend, when Whitburn, Kirkintilloch and Clackmannan meet to see who joins Kingdom in the final.

Result:
Adjudicators: Nigel Seaman & Alan Fernie
(Music + Entertainment)

1. Kingdom Brass (Andrew Duncan) — (86/46) = 132
2. Co-operative Funeralcare (Michael Fowles) — (87/43) = 130
3. Bon Accord (John Maines) — (84/44) = 128

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    


Will Everitt

National Youth Band to explore jazzy enclosures

August 8 • Will Everitt's explorations on a small jazz enclosure will bring a different feel to the music provided by the National Youth Brass Band of Great Britain in London this weekend.


Kapitol

Albert Hall change followed consultation

August 8 • Kapitol Promotions confirm that the decision to reverse the automatic qualification numbers to the Albert Hall Final came after engagement with stakeholders and National Forum.


bbss

Brass Band Summer School rounds off with Gala Concert

August 8 • If you in Harrogate this evening, why not go along and enjoy the entertainment on offer from the delegates of the Brass Band Summer School.


WILLEBROEK

Record Academy recruits at Willebroek

August 8 • The World and European Champion brings together a record number of delegates for its annual Academy course.


The Lindley Band - Parp and a Pint

Wednesday 6 August • 14a Holly Bank Road. Lindley. Huddersfield . West Yorkshire HD3 3 JE


Cheltenham Silver Band - Brass (and percussion) and Beer

Friday 8 August • St. Barnabas Church Hall, Orchard Way, Cheltenham GL51 7JY


Cheltenham Silver Band - Brass (and percussion) and Beer

Friday 15 August • St. Barnabas Church Hall, Orchard Way, Cheltenham, GL51 7JY GL52 7JY


Cheltenham Silver Band - Brass (and percussion) and Beer

Friday 22 August • St. Barnabas Church Hall, Orchard Way, Cheltenham, GL51 7JY GL51 7JY


Haverhill Silver Band - East Anglian Beer & Cider Festival

Sunday 24 August • St Edmundsbury Cathedral, Bury St Edmunds IP33 1QX


Shirley Band

August 9 • The Shirley Band invite applications for the position of MUSICAL DIRECTOR. Due to relocation, we now seek a Musical Director to maintain a high standard of playing and to produce varied programmes for our sell-out concert series together with contests.


Mereside Brass

August 7 • MERESIDE BRASS have vacancies for PERCUSSION players. We are a friendly 4th Section band with a sensible calendar of jobs and socials. It would be great to hear from you if you would like to join the band or if you could help out when needed for concerts.


Mereside Brass

August 7 • MERESIDE BRASS have a vacancy for a SOLO CORNET player maybe PRINCIPAL for the right player. We are a friendly 4th Section band with a sensible calendar of jobs, occasional contests & socials. Players of all ages & sections are welcome to visit or join us


Jenny Gartside

Bsc Hons
Jeweller, brass band themed jewellery and pin badges


               

 © 2025 4barsrest.com Ltd