*
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    


No European Championship in England in 2028

January 24 • A difficult funding landscape sees BBE withdraw from hosting the European Championship in Birmingham in 2028


Van looy

Van Looy ready for Bourgeois challenge

January 23 • The Belgian euphonium star will showcase one of the most fearsome concertos for the instrument at the RNCM Festival with Welsh Champion, Tredegar.


Concord Brass Band

4BR Friday interview with Concord Brass Band

January 22 • 4BR Editor Iwan Fox talks to Steffen Maersk of the Danish National Champion as they get ready for their RNCM International Brass Band Festival debuts this weekend.


Meadeuphs

Euph and baritone prelude to RNCM Festival

January 22 • The RNCM Euphonium & Baritone Ensemble will provide the musical aperitif for the weekend of concert performances and discussions in Manchester.


Regent Hall Concerts - The January Band

Friday 23 January • Regent Hall. (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


The Hepworth Band - New Year Concert

Sunday 25 January • Christ Church, New Mill, Holmfirth HD9 7ER


Dobcross Silver Band - Whitburn Band

Sunday 1 February • c/o Dobcross Band Club. Platt Lane. Dobcross Saddleworth OL3 5AD


Contest: Norwegian National Brass Band Championships

Friday 6 February • Grieghallen, Bergen, N-5015 N-5015


Contest: Norwegian National Brass Band Championships

Saturday 7 February • Grieghallen, Bergen, N-5015 N-5015


Cambrian Brass

January 24 • We are a friendly, inclusive and hard-working brass band, welcoming players of all ages and abilities. We are particularly keen to fill our Soprano Cornet, Flugelhorn and EEb Bass positions.


Newtown Silver Band

January 24 • Newtown Silver Band are recruiting a Musical Director. We seek a leader with brass band experience who can motivate and develop players. A charismatic individual who can shape and deliver concert programmes to be enjoyed by both players and audience.


Newtown Silver Band

January 24 • Newtown Silver Band invites applications for the position of Musical Director.. The band rehearse every Thursday evening from 1930 - 2130 . The Musical Director will take a leadership role working with the senior band and will liaise with the training ban


Jack Capstaff

Bmus (Hons)
Conductor | Composer


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd