*
banner

Half century celebrations for Alder Valley

Alder Valley Brass recently celebrated their 50th anniversary with a very special concert evening.

 

"The whole day was one that will stay with me for a long time," was just one of the many glowing comments received from a past member of Alder Valley Brass in attendance at the bands recent memorable 50th anniversary concert.

Packed

Playing to a packed Princes Hall in Aldershot, the band was joined by past members, family and friends to celebrate half a century of music making.

Prior to the concert commencing the audience were able to view on a large screen, previous television appearances including one on the ‘Two Ronnies’.

Highlight

The compere Frank Renton, engaged with the audience in his usual style with anecdotes from the past and humorous quips, whilst the undoubted highlight of the concert was guest soloist Gordon Campbell, principal trombone of the BBC Big Band, who was featured throughout.

The band dedicated Eric Ball’s 'Resurgam' to the memory of the late George Prior, who was instrumental in the establishment of the band4BR

Wales and New South Wales

Ex-members travelled from afar afield as Wales and New South Wales in Australia to join in the celebrations and the band was delighted to welcome members of the Prior family to the concert.

The band dedicated Eric Ball’s ‘Resurgam’ to the memory of the late George Prior, who was instrumental in the establishment of the band.

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    


EBBA

EBBA drops Challenge Section in 1 year trial

October 14 • There will be no Challenge Section at the 2027 European Brass Band Championships in Montreux.


Elgar

January Area workshops on offer through Elgar International Brass Band Summer School

October 14 • Flowers MD Paul Holland and a leading team of tutors offer Area test-piece workshops ahead of 2027 tests.


John Packer

Death of John Packer

October 14 • The death has been announced of business founder and music industry leader John Packer.


Cory

Wobplay boost from National coverage

October 12 • The recording quality of the performances from York and London also proved to be a winner for World of Brass as well as Cory, Marsden Silver, Harborough, Allerton brass and Wardle Community...


Regent Hall Concerts - Trafalgar Brass

Thursday 15 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - Queentet

Friday 16 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - Funny Bones Symphonic Brass

Friday 16 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - Fulham Brass Band

Friday 16 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Dobcross Silver Band -

Friday 16 October • Playhouse 2 . 2 Newtown street. Shaw. Oldham OL2 8NX


Lostock Hall Brass Band

October 13 • Could you be our next PRINCIPAL CORNET player? and the final piece of our jigsaw!. We are PROMOTED TO THE 1st SECTION in January 2027 as North West 2nd Section Champions of 2026. We are a friendly bunch, have a great mix of ages and sensible mix of jobs


St Michael's Band

October 13 • St Michael’s Band Middleton is a community based non-contesting band looking for players in all sections but particularly cornets front and back row. You’d be very welcome if you are returning to playing or indeed need band experience as a new player


Chinnor Silver

October 12 • We are looking for an ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL CORNET to join and enhance our top line.. We are a 1st Section band with a good mix of concerts and contests planned,including a trip to Belgium next year.. Rehearsals are on a Wednesday in our own bandroom


Andy Wareham

BMus (Hons), MMus (Hons)
Conductor, Composer, Brass Tutor, Musicologist


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd