*
banner

City of Coventry to seek re-union

Former British Open champions are looking to get together 30 years after their famous Belle Vue win under Major Arthur Kenney.

Kenney
 

Former members of the City of Coventry Band, which disbanded in 1993, are arranging a social re-union for ex members.

30 years

It is 30 years since the band famously won the last British Open to be held at Belle Vue in Manchester in 1981, under the baton of Major Arthur Kenney, so, as they told 4BR, September 2011 seemed an excellent opportunity for an overdue re-union.

Memorabilia

The event will be held at the Coventry Hilton Hotel on Saturday 24th September and will comprise an evening buffet, recordings and videos of the band, displays of memorabilia and plenty of nostalgic catching up.

It is 30 years since the band famously won the last British Open to be held at Belle Vue in Manchester in 1981, under the baton of Major Arthur Kenney4BR

Former players

The re-union is being organised by Ian Scott, who played with the band from 1976 -1989 and Tim Washington who was a member from 1980 – 1990.

Ian and Tim have an extensive list of ex members but don’t have contact details for everyone, so if you are interested then get in touch.

They are looking for a large turnout representing as many decades of the band’s history as possible. In addition to the social event, if there is sufficient interest, a playing session may be possible.

Please contact:

Ian Scott
0114 288 3321 (home)
07930 165212 (mobile)
iscott3@sky.com

Tim Washington
01788 832813 (home)
07721 359333 (mobile)
tim.washington@bourton.co.uk

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    


British Open

High demand for premium tickets for British Open

June 5 • Premium tickets for the British Open are starting to become increasingly limited — so don't miss out.


Chav Brass

Chav Brass set for serious fun at Whit Friday

June 5 • The scallywags of the Whit Friday circuit will be performing with serious ambition this year as they seek to inspire the next generation with a mix of DJ Sammy and Eric Ball...


Whit Friday

2025 Tameside Whit Friday details confirmed

June 4 • From start times to prize money, contact details and essential information — the details of the Tameside Whit Friday contests have been announced.


EverReady

Enjoy Spring Festival highlights

June 4 • The British Open has produced a special YouTube feature capturing the highlights of the 2025 Spring Festival in Blackpool.


Contest: Whit Friday March Contests

Friday 13 June • Saddleworth & Tameside OL3


Hebden Bridge Brass Band - The 13th annual Hebden Bridge March Contest

Sunday 15 June • St George's Square, Hebden Bridge HX7 8ET


The Portsmouth Grammar School - Concert by The Black Dyke Band

Saturday 28 June • St Marys Church, Fratton, Portsmouth PO15PA PO15PA


Petworth Town Band - Fete in the Park with Petworth Town Band

Saturday 28 June • Grounds of Petworth Park GU28 9LR


Petworth Town Band - Farnham Brass Band and Petworth Town Band

Saturday 28 June • Farnham Carnival


HYDE BAND

June 5 • WE CURRENTLY HAVE PLAYER VACANCIES FOR BB BASS, BARITONE & EUPHONIUM. Join our friendly 1st Section Band in the New forest, working with our Musical Director: Ben Halstead on a varied programme of concerts and contests. Rehearsals Mon & Thurs 8-10


Besses Boys' Band

June 4 • Besses Boys' Band (1st Section 2026) are looking for SOLO TROMBONE. Rehearsals Monday & Friday 7:30pm-9:30pm at Lady Wilton Hall, Manchester - Good links to M60 ring road and city centre. Fun band with good concert and social balance


Besses Boys' Band

June 4 • Besses Boys' Band (1st Section 2026) are looking for CORNET players (position negotiable). Rehearse Monday & Friday 7:30pm-9:30pm at Lady Wilton Hall, Manchester - Good links to M60 ring road and city centre. Fun band with good concert and social balance


Simon Gresswell


Conductor, adjudicator, tutor, tuba specialist


               

 © 2025 4barsrest.com Ltd