*
banner

Westacott takes first conducting role

Former Grimethorpe principal cornet takes the baton at Slaithwaite.

Slaithwaite
 

The Slaithwaite Band has announced the appointment of Rob Westacott as their new MD.

The appointment at the Yorkshire band follows the recent departure of former MD Tabby Clegg in June.

Most respected

One of the most respected cornet players of his generation, Rob will take up his first senior conducting role following a highly successful playing career that included tenures as principal cornet at Grimethorpe, Brighouse & Rastrick, Tredegar and Hepworth, as well as a recent second spell as assistant principal cornet at Black Dyke.

He has been a cornet tutor for the National Children’s Band of Great Britain and Yorkshire Youth Band and has assisted regular MD’s of several other bands in contest preparation and sectionals.

Opportunity

Rob told 4BR: "I’m really grateful that the band has given me this opportunity to begin my conducting career. I look forward to a successful partnership, even though our first concert is on Friday 13th later this month!"

He brings with him a wealth of talent and experience which can only be beneficial to the future development of SlaithwaiteBand Manager, Andrew Booth

Talent

Band Manager, Andrew Booth added: "Following a long selection process, the band is thrilled to welcome Rob into the fold. He brings with him a wealth of talent and experience which can only be beneficial to the future development of Slaithwaite."

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    


Heaton

Heaton CD gains critical acclaim

January 19 • The final recording element of Paul Hindmarsh's extensive research into the work and music of Wilfred Heaton gains praise from influential review website.


Oliver Waespi

Composition focus for Waespi

January 18 • New works and performances with a banding link kick start 2026 for Swiss composer.


Italian Brass Band

Italian Brass Band enhances profile to Rome banding public

January 18 • The Italian Brass Band continues to provide an increasingly popular profile in the Eternal City.


Purcell School

Purcell School to introduce new industry pathway qualification

January 18 • The RSL Level 3 Diploma in Creative Music Industries will help students gain the experience and qualification to succeed in professional careers.


Regent Hall Concerts - The January Band

Friday 23 January • Regent Hall. (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


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


Regent Hall Concerts - Royal Greenwich Brass Band

Friday 27 February • Regent Hall. (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


East London Brass

January 16 • CORNET PLAYER - looking ahead to the 2026 contest season, ELB are looking for a cornet player 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.


Enderby Band

January 16 • Following our 2nd place finish at the LBBA winter contest and recent promotion to the Senior Cup for the 2026 Spring Festival, we are looking for a SOLO CORNET, a BBb BASS and PERCUSSIONISTS to complete our friendly and hardworking team.


Petworth Town Band

January 15 • Petworth Town Band have vacancies for CORNETS, BASS TROMBONE and TUBA. We are a very active band with concerts and engagements planned throughout the year.


Jason M Smith


Band Trainer (Contest Preparation), Conductor


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd