*
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    


Brett Baker

4BR Monday interview with Brett Baker

January 4 • In the first of a new series of weekly audio interviews, 4BR Editor Iwan Fox catches up with Brett Baker.


Quiz

4BR Christmas Quiz: The answers and winner

January 4 • There was a great response to the annual 4BR Christmas Quiz — but it did catch quite a lot of people out too...


Regionals

AoBBA to lead Area test-piece workshop

January 4 • The Association of Brass Band Adjudicators will join up with Newstead Brass to present a free Regionals Test Piece workshop for Sections 2, 3 & 4.


thecooperationband

Ramsay takes principal cooperation role

January 4 • Alex Ramsay has become the principal cornet of the cooperation band.


Newstead Brass - Brett Baker

Saturday 17 January • St Wilfrid's Church, . Kirkby-in-Ashfield NG17 8LA


The Hepworth Band - New Year Concert

Sunday 25 January • Christ Church, New Mill, Holmfirth HD9 7ER


Contest: Norwegian National Brass Band Championships

Friday 6 February • Grieghallen, Bergen, N-5015 N-5015


Contest: Norwegian National Brass Band Championships

Saturday 7 February • Grieghallen, Bergen, N-5015 N-5015


Contest: London & Southern Counties Regional Championships

Saturday 21 March • Arts & Leisure Centre, Lytton Way, Stevenage SG1 1LZ


Tewit Silver Band

January 3 • PRINCIPAL Eb BASS position - our enthusiastic team of basses are looking for the right leader to elevate them to the next level. We have a great program of events ahead of us including contests and concerts alongside a good social vibe.


Tewit Silver Band

January 3 • Championship CORNET players - we are looking for a strong front row player to complete our section. We have a great year ahead including contests, hymn and march contests, concerts and Durham Miners alongside a good social vibe.


East London Brass

January 3 • PERCUSSIONIST - looking ahead to the 2026 contest season, ELB are looking for a percussionist to complete our line up. The band is ambitious and keen to further our successful 2025 season of winning the areas and promotion at spring festival.


David Frame


Bass/Tenor Trombone Player, Adjudicator (Member of AoBBA) Occasional Conductor


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd