*
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    


kAPITOL

2026 National Finals test-pieces announced

March 30 • Works by Philip Sparke, Andrew Wainwright, Eric Ball, Thierry Deleruyelle and Peter Graham will challenge the Albert Hall and York Barbican finalists.


Youth Brass 2000

Results: 2026 National Youth Championships of Great Britain

March 29 • There were competitive titles for Youth Brass 2000, St Austell Youth and Elland Silver as well as plenty of great non-competitive performances to enjoy in Birmingham.


Youth Champs

Birmingham hosts National Youth Championships

March 28 • If you are anywhere near Birmingham today, get along and enjoy plenty of fantastic brass band performers.


Withington

Withington returns to Grimethorpe

March 28 • Allan Withington will lead Grimethorpe Colliery at the British Open and Albert Hall National Final, as contesting connection with Carlton Main comes to an end.


The Hepworth Band - Slaithwaite Philharmonic Orchestra

Saturday 18 April • Huddersfield Town Hall HD1 2TA


Regent Brass - Woodbridge Excelsior Band and Russell Gray

Saturday 9 May • The Salvation Army (Regent Hall), Oxford Street, London W1C 2DJ


Contest: Whit Friday March Contests

Friday 29 May • Saddleworth & Tameside OL3


The Hepworth Band - Brassband Burgermusik Luzern

Saturday 30 May • Dewsbury Minster, Vicarage Road, Dewsbury, West Yorkshire WF12 8DD


Regent Brass - Living Lines

Sunday 5 July • St Saviour's, Pimlico, St.George's Square, Pimlico, London SW1V 3QW


St John's Band (Mossley)

March 29 • BBb BASS player required following our 4th place at the North West regionals. We are a friendly, welcoming 4th section band based in Tameside, Greater Manchester and we rehearse on Tuesday and Thursday evenings in Mossley.


St John's Band (Mossley)

March 29 • SOLO CORNET players required (position negotiable) following our 4th place at the North West regionals. We are a friendly, welcoming 4th section band based in Tameside, Greater Manchester and we rehearse on Tuesday and Thursday evenings in Mossley.


Hucknall and Linby Mining Community Brass Band

March 29 • Bb AND Eb BASSES WANTED!. We are a friendly 1st section band based in Nottingham - rehearsal Thursday Evening. We have an exciting year planned with a visit to Whit Friday and a place secured at the nationals following our success at the midlands area!


Paul Andrews


Conductor, Band trainer, Adjudicator, Instrument Repairer - Brasstoff


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd