*
banner

Afghan loss for Chalgrove

Chalgrove Band loses a valued player to the RAF in Afghanistan, but sees a quartet come and join the ranks.

Chalgrove
 

Following on from their recent successful fund raising concert on behalf of the British Legion, the Chalgrove Band will embark upon their busy summer concert and contest season without the services of solo horn, Flight Lieutenant Mike Parker.

Camp Bastion

Mike, an air traffic controller in the RAF, has served the band fantastically well for four years but will now commence a period of service at Camp Bastion in Afghanistan.

Replacing him is Rob Andrews, who has kindly agreed to step into the breach whilst the band also welcomes cornet player Chris Ison and the baritone and tuba duo of Viv Jackson and Matt Ager.

Whilst it can be difficult for bands to cope with losing exceptional players such as Mike, we are delighted to welcome Viv, Rob, Matt and Chris to the ranksChairman, Grahan Ruecroft

Delighted

Chairman Graham Ruecroft told 4BR: "Whilst it can be difficult for bands to cope with losing exceptional players such as Mike, we are delighted to welcome Viv, Rob, Matt and Chris to the ranks."

He added: "I'm sure all four will really make a difference and help us to reach the Second Section next year. We wish Mike all the very best in his career with the RAF."

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    


4BR Podcast

4BR Review — Episode 22

October 2 • A preview of the 2026 Championship Section National Final at the Royal Albert Hall and the issues that arise....


NYBBGB

NYBBGB launches Young Composer competition

October 2 • Young composers aged 30 and under are being asked to create a new work for the National Youth Brass Band of Great Britain.


James Shepherd

New award to be presented at Royal Albert Hall

October 2 • A wonderful new award in memory of one of the greatest ever cornet players will be made at the Royal Albert Hall this weekend.


Black Dyke Band

Tributes to Hammonds duo at Black Dyke

October 2 • The Black Dyke Band has paid tribute to Jon and Tim Hammond as they prepare to take their final contest bow with the Queensbury Band this weekend.


Regent Hall Concerts - Consort Brass Quintet

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


Regent Hall Concerts - BoneVoyage Trombone Quartet

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


Regent Hall Concerts - Foden's Band

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


Bilton Silver Rugby Band - Nobody Does It Better - The Music of James Bond.

Saturday 3 October • St Andrew's Church, Church Street, Rugby CV21 3PT


Regent Hall Concerts - The Regent Hall Band of the Salvation Army

Sunday 4 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Epping Forest Band

October 2 • Euphonium and solo horn wanted to join our friendly sociable 2nd section band. Based in Essex with close links to the M11 and the underground central line. Instrument's provided of required


Olney Brass

September 30 • We are a friendly and committed THIRD SECTION band looking for:. . - CORNETS (Front & Back Row). - SOLO HORN. . Engagements and concerts in the Olney/Milton Keynes area.. Rehearsals in Milton Keynes MK15 (5 mins from J14 of M1) on Tuesdays 7.45-9.45pm.


Ashington Colliery Band

September 30 • Tenor Trombone: We're a friendly, ambitious Second Section band based in South East Northumberland just north of Blyth. We rehearse Tuesdays & Thursdays, 19:30-21:30, and transport can be provided depending on location.


Gordon Eddison

B Ed (Hons). Member AoBBA.
Conductor and Adjudicator.


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd