*
banner

Marsden set for soprano trio!

Marsden set to go with soprano trio at Butlins...with Martin Irwin and Ian Twiss in the ranks.

Marsden
 

After winning the Pontins Championship fielding two soprano players, Marsden Silver will go one better at Skegness next weekend as they look to claim their first Butlins Mineworkers title.

Three sops

This time they will take to the stage with no less than three high wire specialists in the ranks – although just like Prestatyn, MD Glyn Williams has made sure his innovative decision is well within the rules.

Only one

In fact, there will be only one soprano player on the stage – but two of the best in the cornet ranks, as the band has announced the coup of signing former Brighouse & Rastrick soprano player Martin Irwin on assistant principal cornet and by bringing in the well known sop star Ian Twiss to help out on solo cornet.

Delighted

The MD is naturally delighted to have secured Martin’s signature: "Martin will be a huge asset to our forthcoming contest season," said Glyn. "Principal cornet Jason Evans is enjoying the development of the new cornet team, and Martin’s arrival is a further boost. With the rules allowing for two deps, we are also very fortunate to get Ian to help us out. He is a superb asset to have on a test piece like this."

The demanding soprano part will be in the safe hands of Dale Garner, who joined Marsden in the summer of 2010 and who has quickly developed into one of the band’s leading players. "Dale is developing brilliantly," Glyn added. "He’s a fine performer."

Principal cornet Jason Evans is enjoying the development of the new cornet team, and Martin’s arrival is a further boost

Signings

Marsden has also signed Paul Dale, who returns to the band on back row cornet after a spell with Leyland, Carwyn Waters who comes from Holme Silver and Neil Raisbeck, an RNCM student who takes the 1st horn seat. The bass section has been strengthened by the signing of Craig Mann on BBb and Samantha Minshall on EEb.

Even though the band will be concentrating on winning the Butlins title, thoughts will also turn to the title winning assault of 2nd baritone player Mike Cavanagh who has qualified for the semi finals of the BBC Young Brass Soloist which will be held the same weekend.

Keeping tabs

Glyn will be keeping his tabs on the 16 year old. "Marsden is very proud of his achievements and we wish him every success – it would be a great double if he can get through to the BBC Final and we pick up first prize."

Fortunately Mike’s older brother Steve, a student at the RNCM, is also a baritone player and has kindly stepped in to cover for his sibling.

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    


Cheltenham

Cheltenham judges confirmed

July 25 • The judges tasked with picking the winners at the 2025 Cheltenham National Finals have been announced.


Sold Out

National Youth Band sells out in London

July 25 • Its returns only if you wish to enjoy the NYBBGB in London next month with tickets going fast for the Childrens' Band too.


Italian Brass Band

Italian Brass Band continues to reach out to new audiences

July 25 • The Italian Band was joined by trombone soloist Andrea Conti for a festival performances in heart of Tuscany.


NYBBS

Perth ready for trio of NYBBS music makers

July 25 • Perth Concert Hall will host the trio of National Youth Brass Bands of Scotland later today — so if you are around why not pop along and enjoy them showcasing their talents.


Petworth Town Band - Dorset House School Fete

Saturday 26 July • Dorset House School RH20 1PB


Dobcross Silver Band - Marsden Silver Prize Band

Sunday 27 July • c/o Dobcross Band Club. Platt Lane. Dobcross Saddleworth OL3 5AD


Haverhill Silver Band - A Nightingale Sang... (an evening concert)

Saturday 2 August • Foakes Hall, Dunmow CM6 1DG


Haverhill Silver Band - East Anglian Beer & Cider Festival

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


Haverhill Silver Band - Concert in Saffron Hall

Wednesday 27 August • Saffron Hall, Audley End Road, Saffron Walden, Essex CB11 4UH


Dodworth Colliery MW Brass Band

July 25 • Ready for a NEW Music Challenge?. . Dodworth Brass Band, is looking for a new principal cornet as our current player prepares for retirement. Just 5mins from J37 M1. . friendly welcoming band with a packed calendar of exciting concerts & events. . . S75 3RF


Enderby Band

July 24 • Enderby Band (Leicestershire) are a Championship section band looking for: Bb BASS & PERCUSSION (expressions of interest from any perc disciplines are welcome). We are an ambitious, friendly, band with a sensibly full calendar of contests and concerts.


The Marple Band

July 24 • Cornet( back row), Baritone, Horn, Bb Bass and Kit percussionist vacancies to join our fabulous band. We are a friendly ambitious 2nd Section band, starting an exciting new musical journey with our MD Nick Birch.


Jack Capstaff

Bmus (Hons)
Conductor | Composer


               

 © 2025 4barsrest.com Ltd