*
banner

Testing time in York

The young players of Test Valley Brass have just enjoyed a great time of it in York.

Test Valley Brass
 

The young members of Test Valley Brass have just returned from a successful tour of York.

Shivers

The band performed at the iconic York Minster, with Izzy Rutherford, principal cornet telling 4BR: "It was just amazing, the acoustics were just magical. It’s an experience I shall never forget, it really did send shivers down your spine."

Following their performance in the Minster the band played for two hours entertaining the crowd of tourists and locals.

Great crowds

MD Chris Sharp, commented: "It’s such a cosmopolitan city and draws in visitors from all over the world that we were permanently surrounded by a very appreciative crowd while we performed."

The band also performed an evening concert at the local All Saints Pavement Church, whilst to round off their trip the band made a detour to Alton Towers where they performed at the end of the main street in front of the lake.

It’s such a cosmopolitan city and draws in visitors from all over the world that we were permanently surrounded by a very appreciative crowd while we performedMD, Chris Sharp

Positive feedback

Laura Gerrard of Alton Towers told 4BR: "I have had great reports and guest’s feedback was positive."

In fact Alton Towers were so pleased with Test Valley Brass they have already contacted them and are looking at arranging future performances over their Christmas period.

And after a packed weekend of music making, there was just enough time for the young players to enjoy a few thrills on some of the amazing rides at the huge attraction, before heading home.

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    


Close Shave

KNDS Fairey look forward to A Close Shave with Wallace & Gromit

August 22 • A special double bill of Wallace & Gromit films plus extras will be heard in a very special concert in London in November.


Touch of Brass

Radio: Touch of Brass

August 22 • More brass bands music to enjoy from presenters Martin Upfold and Julie Hedges.


New South Wales

Live stream coverage of 130th New South Wales State Championships

August 22 • Tim Kelly is bringing all the action from Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre.


Foden's Youth Band

Foden's Youth Band set to carry on 15th season of player development

August 22 • Registration is now open to be part of the 2026/27 Foden's Youth Band.


Regent Hall Concerts - Cross Bones Trombone Quintet

Friday 21 August • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Sherborne Town Band - Free-Music in the park

Sunday 23 August • Sherborne, Dorset-Pageant Gardens DT9 3NP


Sherborne Town Band - Free-Music in the park

Sunday 13 September • Sherborne, Dorset-Pageant Gardens DT9 3NP


Regent Hall Concerts - The Band of the Grenadier Guards

Thursday 17 September • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - The Duchess of Edinburgh String Orchestra

Friday 18 September • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Ashington Colliery Band

August 20 • Front Row Cornet & Tenor Trombone. We're a friendly, ambitious Second Section band based in South East Northumberland just north of Blyth. We rehearse Tuesdays & Thursdays, 19:30-21:30, and transport can be provided depending on location.


Putney and Wimbledon Brass Band

August 18 • Putney and Wimbledon Band are looking for a percussionist, ideally tune although the ability to play an anvil is an absolute must! We play exciting music with lots of percussion so there's plenty to keep you occupied.


Putney and Wimbledon Brass Band

August 18 • Putney and Wimbledon Brass Band are looking for brass and percussion players to join their new concert band who will be making music for the good folk in London, without the pressure of contesting.


Jonathan Pippen


Conductor, Adjudicator, Trombone Soloist & Clinician


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd