*
banner

Double delight for Oldham

The Oldham (Lees) Band has been celebrating a first top section win and the arrival of a top class solo horn.

Oldham
 

The Oldham (Lees) Band is celebrating for two reasons this week.

First win

Not only have they won their first ever Championship Section contest at Tameside, but they have also announced the signing of horn player Arfon Owen.

The former solo horn of Black Dyke and Grimethorpe made his winning contest debut with the band at Tameside.

Good lad

Conductor John Collins told 4BR: "I met Arfon whilst he was teacher training and was greatly impressed with his playing. He’s also a right good lad and I’m sure will fit in with our band’s young and fun atmosphere. I’m extremely pleased Arfon has decided to take up the solo horn seat with us."

Safe

The move is a safe bet too it seems.

"We’ve had two pregnancies in the horn section recently," John added, "so it’s a safe bet we won’t get a third with him! Arfon brings so much experience and a great deal of talent to the band, and this will give us a great lift."

Delighted

Arfon added: "I'm delighted to be a part of this exciting time for Oldham. The band have made me realise just how much I've missed playing, and I look forward to what promises to be a great future."

Move

With Arfon’s arrival, Tracey Daniel will now occupy the first horn seat after stepping down following the recent birth of her son.

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    


Gregson

Focus on Gregson's Choice on National eve

October 8 • The International Staff Band of the Salvation Army will be joined by Ian Bousfield for an aperitif evening of music from the pen of Edward Gregson ahead of his Albert Hall challenge.


World of Brass

Cory and Baker CD brace launched

October 8 • The latest CD releases from Cory and Brett Baker will be on sale at the Royal Albert Hall this year.


4BR Preview

4BR Review — Episode 9

October 7 • Join the conversion with your views and opinions about the Royal Albert Hall National Final — who you think may win and what you feel should be done to secure its future.


the cooperation band

Half century mark for cooperation players

October 7 • Keith Johnstone and Ray Munday have just notched up 50 years of outstanding service to the brass band movement — with an appearance at the Albert Hall to help with the celebrations.


Regent Hall Concerts - Stately Brass Quintet

Friday 10 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. WC1 2DJ W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - Academy Symphonic Brass

Friday 10 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. WC1 2DJ W1C2DJ


Hathersage Band - Hathersage Village Autumn Concert

Saturday 11 October • Hathersage Methodist Church, Main Road, Hathersage S32 1BB S32 1BB


Contest: National Brass Band Championships of Great Britain

Saturday 11 October • The Royal Albert Hall, Kensington Gore, South Kensington, London SW7 2AP


Regent Hall Concerts - Regent Hall Band of the Salvation Army

Tuesday 14 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. WC1 2DJ W1C2DJ


Chinnor Silver

October 8 • Our community band is meeting again 11am Monday 13th after completing our first gig.. We would love you to join us.We are a band of mixed abilities and welcome ALL players.. Blowing with us will not impact on your own band and its all free.


Welwyn Garden City Band

October 6 • We are a friendly & sociable Second Section Band with an exciting and varied Christmas season ahead. Due to an employment relocation, we have an immediate vacancy for a FRONT ROW CORNET player.


Tewit Silver Band

October 4 • Principal Eb Bass. Our established bass section are looking for a strong leader to elevate their performance - could that be you? We have an exciting contest schedule including the Scottish Open and and full set of new Besson basses!


Michael Bennett

BSc, RNCM (Perf)
Performer, Composer, Arranger, Teacher


               

 © 2025 4barsrest.com Ltd