*
banner

Bob Childs to conduct NZ National Band

Dr Robert Childs appointed MD of National Band of New Zealand for 2013 tours.

Robert Childs
 

The Brass Band Association of New Zealand has announced the appointment of Dr Robert Childs as Musical Director of the 2013 National Brass Band of New Zealand.

Famous win

The inaugural National Band was formed in 1953, going on to tour the UK and famously winning the British Open under the baton of Ken Smith.

It has been brought together periodically every since as a showcase of the very best brass and percussion talent New Zealand has to offer, and regularly undertakes tours all over the banding world – but until now, always under a leading home-grown conductor.

Honour

Speaking exclusively to 4BR before he flew out from Heathrow to judge at the Swiss Open, Dr Childs told spoke of his delight at the being asked to direct the band.

"It’s a real honour to be able to accept the invitation to conduct the National Brass Band of New Zealand.

I have had a wonderful time on each of my visits to the country over the years and to be asked to follow in the musical footsteps of some of the greatest musicians the country has ever produced is quite something."

I’m really looking forward to working with a highly professional organisation and being able to add to the great history of a wonderful bandDr Robert Childs

New Year return

Bob revealed that he will be flying back to New Zealand early in the New Year to start the audition process of potential players as well as work on preparations for a domestic tour and a proposed ground breaking visit to China.

"I have been so impressed by the standard of performers in New Zealand, that I think the auditions will be the hardest part of the job. I’m really looking forward to working with a highly professional organisation and being able to add to the great history of a wonderful band."

Pleasing

Dave Dobson, the spokesperson for the Brass Band Association of New Zealand added: "This is the first occasion on which a Musical Director from the United Kingdom has been appointed.

It is particularly pleasing that such an eminent Musical Director as Dr Robert Childs has accepted the position. Although arrangements are not yet finalised it is intended the band will give concerts in New Zealand and China in mid to late October 2013."

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    


Rodney Newton

80th birthday concert celebration for Newton

July 19 • Rodney Newton will enjoy a musical celebration of his birthday this weekend in Cambridge.


jhs instruments

JHS Ltd set to close

July 19 • The leading independent distributor and suppliers of Odyssey instrument brand set to close after 60 years of trading.


FodensLovatt

Lovatt joins Foden's for Regent Hall pre-National concert

July 19 • Trumpet star Mike Lovatt will reconnect with Foden's Band for their pre-National preview concert at Regent Hall.


Rooms for groups

Sold out signs up in Cheltenham

July 19 • Hotel demand from National qualifiers mean sold out signs are posted in Cheltenham.


The Hepworth Band - A Summer Proms Concert

Sunday 20 July • Hepworth United Sports Club, Far Lane, Hepworth, Holmfirth. HD9 1RN


Petworth Town Band - Ebernoe Horn Fair

Friday 25 July • Ebernoe Cricket Ground GU28 9LD


Petworth Town Band - Dorset House School Fete

Saturday 26 July • Dorset House School RH20 1PB


Haverhill Silver Band - A Nightingale Sang... (an evening concert)

Saturday 2 August • Foakes Hall, Dunmow CM6 1DG


Haverhill Silver Band - East Anglian Beer & Cider Festival

Sunday 24 August • St Edmundsbury Cathedral, Bury St Edmunds IP33 1QX


Longridge Band

July 21 • Due to ill health, Longridge Band invite applications for a SOLO HORN. We are a friendly, committed band, who enjoy a good balance of concerts and contests throughout the year. We rehearse 10 minutes from Jct 31A of the M6, on Wednesday and Friday evening


NORTH LAKES BRASS

July 20 • North Lakes Brass are seeking a CONDUCTOR with the drive to take our friendly band into the 2nd section. . We are different from most contesting bands as we rehearse just once a week (Wed), have 2 full band concerts & 4-5 contests per year.


Rushden Town Band

July 18 • Second Trombone vacancy. A friendly Midlands 1st Section Band, Rushden are looking for a Second Trombone player to come and join us. Great repertoire and concerts plus contests twice per year. Every other year, the band goes on tour.


Sam Fisher

BA (Hons), PGCE, Dip.ABRSM
Conductor, Adjudicator (AoBBA), Composer/Arranger, Cornet & Flugelhorn Soloist


               

 © 2025 4barsrest.com Ltd