*
banner

Webster's wonders

The first results show Grimethorpe inspiring a new generation to start a passion for playing a brass instrument

Grimethorpe in action
 

Grimethorpe Colliery Band’s commitment to providing children in their local community with the opportunity to take the first steps on what will hopefully become a life-long passion for playing a brass instrument, has already begun to show fantastic results.

Fantastic results

Recently, cornet star Roger Webster returned to Birkwood Primary School to present a dozen up and coming young players with their Associated Board Royal School of Music exam certificates.

As reported on 4BR, members of the band have been nurturing the playing talents of a host of enthusiastic youngsters at the school over the past year, and recently twelve were entered into the exams — with all of them passing with flying colours.

Special assembly

This week a special school assembly was held where Roger presented the beaming young players with their exam certificates and medals – and all in front of the Chair of the Board of Governors and proud as punch parents and relatives.

Most popular teacher

Teaching co-ordinator Esther Sutton Smith told 4BR that the occasion provided positive proof, not just of the excellence of the Grimethorpe initiative, but the way in which playing a brass instrument helps build confidence in the children themselves.

"Roger is the most popular teacher in the school!

Everyone — from the Board of Governors and parents, and especially the children wanted to thank him and the band for what they are doing here with us – it’s become something very special."

Credit

Although surrounded by eager young players all taking the chance to get their photograph taken with him, Roger also ensured that a great deal of credit went to Grimethorpe’s partners in the scheme.

"The project has been helped immensely by John Ingman from the Barnsley Music Hub," he said.

"He taught the children throughout the inspirational project and has also been instrumental in its success to date."

Roger added: "The commitment to the project by Buffet Group has also been integral to its success, so everyone involved offers a great deal of thanks to Buffet's Arnaud Montoise for making this possible."

The results are clear to everyone. It was simply great to see so many smiling faces and gleaming music medals in and around our schoolTeacher Esther Sutton Smith

New members

Esther Sutton Smith now hopes that after such a successful start, more and more children will now want to become part of the project – and hopefully one day become members of Grimethorpe Colliery Band itself.

"The band isn’t short of new fans for certain – or potential new recruits in a few years time!

It’s been a great project – full of fun, led by inspirational tutors such as John, Roger and other members of the Grimethorpe Band.

The results are clear to everyone. It was simply great to see so many smiling faces and gleaming music medals in and around our school."

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    


Cheltenham

Cheltenham judges confirmed

July 25 • The judges tasked with picking the winners at the 2025 Cheltenham National Finals have been announced.


Sold Out

National Youth Band sells out in London

July 25 • Its returns only if you wish to enjoy the NYBBGB in London next month with tickets going fast for the Childrens' Band too.


Italian Brass Band

Italian Brass Band continues to reach out to new audiences

July 25 • The Italian Band was joined by trombone soloist Andrea Conti for a festival performances in heart of Tuscany.


NYBBS

Perth ready for trio of NYBBS music makers

July 25 • Perth Concert Hall will host the trio of National Youth Brass Bands of Scotland later today — so if you are around why not pop along and enjoy them showcasing their talents.


Petworth Town Band - Dorset House School Fete

Saturday 26 July • Dorset House School RH20 1PB


Dobcross Silver Band - Marsden Silver Prize Band

Sunday 27 July • c/o Dobcross Band Club. Platt Lane. Dobcross Saddleworth OL3 5AD


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


Haverhill Silver Band - Concert in Saffron Hall

Wednesday 27 August • Saffron Hall, Audley End Road, Saffron Walden, Essex CB11 4UH


Dodworth Colliery MW Brass Band

July 25 • Ready for a NEW Music Challenge?. . Dodworth Brass Band, is looking for a new principal cornet as our current player prepares for retirement. Just 5mins from J37 M1. . friendly welcoming band with a packed calendar of exciting concerts & events. . . S75 3RF


Enderby Band

July 24 • Enderby Band (Leicestershire) are a Championship section band looking for: Bb BASS & PERCUSSION (expressions of interest from any perc disciplines are welcome). We are an ambitious, friendly, band with a sensibly full calendar of contests and concerts.


The Marple Band

July 24 • Cornet( back row), Baritone, Horn, Bb Bass and Kit percussionist vacancies to join our fabulous band. We are a friendly ambitious 2nd Section band, starting an exciting new musical journey with our MD Nick Birch.


Phillip Littlemore

GGSM, AoBBA Member
Conductor, Band Trainer, Adjudicator, Arranger, Teacher and Publisher


               

 © 2025 4barsrest.com Ltd