*
banner

Figaro, Figaro!

France's Le Figaro newspaper to highlight the 'brass band phenomenon'.

Figaro
 

4BR has been working with journalist Guillaume Mollaret of ‘Le Figaro’ newspaper in France over the past few days, to help with background for a major article to be published next week.

Phenomenon

Guillaume is writing an article for the second largest daily newspaper publication in France about what they term the ‘brass band phenomenon’ and how it has spread across Europe in the last few decades – including a growing domestic presence.

Although there are differences in each country, it seems the British brass band tradition is a successful exportLe Figaro journalist, Guillaume Mollaret

British tradition

He told 4BR: "It is a very interesting phenomenon and one which I think will interest our many readers. The British tradition of the brass band is fascinating and is now being felt all across Europe."

The growth in banding in Europe has even seen the development of a burgeoning French National Championship, whilst Guillaume is about to travel to Serbia in the next few weeks to see how brass bands play an important part in their musical culture.

Thanks to 4BR

"Although there are differences in each country, it seems the British brass band tradition is a successful export," he added. "Thanks to 4barsrest I’ve been able to find out much more information to help with the article."

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    


Sparke

All preview roads lead to the Albert Hall...

September 28 • You can hear how the competing bands are getting on with their final preparations on Philip Sparke's work ahead of the National Final at the Royal Hall this weekend.


Hobury Victoria

Results: 2026 Red Admiral Entertainment Contest

September 28 • Horbury hit double top to defeat Championship and First Section rivals in Chorley as Golborne, Blackpool Brass and Driffield Silver also secure section victories.


Blidworth

Result: 2026 NEMBBA Entertainment Contest

September 28 • Blidworth Welfare takes the entertainment honours in Darley Dale.


Bathgate

Report & Result: 2026 Fife Charities Contest

September 27 • Bathgate claims the honours in Kirkcaldy to head on a journey to the Spring Festival.


Dobcross Silver Band -

Sunday 27 September • Dobcross Band and Social Club. Platt Lane. Dobcross. Saddleworth Oldham OL3 5AD


The Hepworth Band - Public Rehearsal ahead of the National Finals

Tuesday 29 September • Batley Town Hall WF17 5DA


Regent Hall Concerts - The Band of the Irish Guards

Thursday 1 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - Eagle Brass

Thursday 1 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - Consort Brass Quintet

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


Waltham St. Lawrence Silver Band

September 28 • . Our welcoming non-contesting community band, based near Maidenhead, Bracknell and Reading, has openings for: . Percussion, kit and tuned: a lovely pair of timps awaits you!.


Waltham St. Lawrence Silver Band

September 28 • Our inclusive non-contesting community band, based near Maidenhead, Bracknell and Reading, has vacancies for: . . Solo Cornet. Soprano Cornet. 2/3 Cornet. .


Waltham St. Lawrence Silver Band

September 28 • Our non-contesting community band, based near Maidenhead, Bracknell and Reading, seeks:. . 1st Horn . 2nd Baritone . .


Alan Widdop


Conductor, Brass teacher, Adjudicator (ABBA)


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd