*
banner

Lawrence gets the bird

Composer Phil Lawrence has enjoyed something of a coop with his latest bit of musical animation..

Lawrence
 

The animated cornet playing talents of composer Phil Lawrence will be both seen and heard on television in the next few weeks — in a film all about pigeon racing...

Animation

The 6 minute animation film is a short take on the world of northern pigeon racing, and as such the producers decided to opt for the now traditional stereotype 'Hovis cornet' background music.

Phil was therefore asked to hunt out his old cornet (last seeing action over 15 years ago) and play along to the on screen story.

It’s about a pigeon called 'Slow Joe' which has become over weight and has slipped down the ranks of winning rosettes. His owner decides to take drastic action to get his bird back to winning ways — with epic results...!Phil Lawrence

Slow Joe

Phil told 4BR: "It’s about a pigeon called 'Slow Joe' which has become over weight and has slipped down the ranks of winning rosettes. His owner decides to take drastic action to get his bird back to winning ways — with epic results...!"

So tune in on September 23rd on Channel 4 at 2.35am — yes, half-two Thursday morning and find out what happens.

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    


Lincolnshire

Lincolnshire showcase returns

January 9 • The Lincolnshire Music Education Hub's 'Brass Band Showcase' returns later this year with the promise of it being bigger and better than ever.


RNCM

Research recognition for RNCM

January 8 • The Royal Northern College of Music adds to its established recognition as a leading centre for the advanced study of music performance and composition.


ODBBA

ODBBA confident of capacity turn-out

January 8 • You will need to be quick to make sure you get your entry in for the Oxford & District Brass Band Association Winter Contest.


Geneva Clans

Geneva boost to cross border battle

January 8 • Geneva Instruments has boosted the prize funds for the forthcoming 'Clans vs Counties Contest' in June.


Newstead Brass - Brett Baker

Saturday 17 January • St Wilfrid's Church, . Kirkby-in-Ashfield NG17 8LA


The Hepworth Band - New Year Concert

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


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


Contest: London & Southern Counties Regional Championships

Saturday 21 March • Arts & Leisure Centre, Lytton Way, Stevenage SG1 1LZ


Putney and Wimbledon Brass Band

January 8 • Following our promotion to the 2nd section we are looking for a percussionist to do a bit of bing bonging on the timps for the regionals in March. We are a lovely band - everyone says so - so please get in touch. Rehearsals Weds from 1930 in Putney.


Mid Rhondda Band

January 6 • Mid Rhondda Band are currently looking for a trombone player and percussionists to join the team. We are a friendly, welcoming 3rd section band working towards competing in the Welsh Area in March. We also have a variety of events booked for 2026.


The Marple Band

January 6 • Bb Bass and Tuned Percussionist vacancies to join our fabulous band. We are a friendly, ambitious 2nd Section band, starting an exciting new year.


Duncan Wilson

Bmus(hons), LGSMD
Conductor, Adjudicator (member AoBBA)


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd