*
banner

Bolsover set for Sparke of inspiration

The third annual Bolsover Summer School has a very special musical guest this year to add extra musical benefits...

Philip Sparke
 

4BR has been informed that plans are now well under way for the third annual Bolsover Summer School that will take place in Bolsover, Derbyshire between the 26th July and the 1st August.

Foden's stars

The course will be directed by Foden's star players Mark Wilkinson and Glyn Williams who will be joined by Stewart Baglin, Helen Williams, David Hirst, Brett Baker and Simone Rebello

As well as private lessons, master-classes and a tutor’s ‘treat concert’, delegates will also get the opportunity to perform in solos, duets or group ensembles under the guidance of the experienced course leaaders.

Philip Sparke

It has also been announced that Philip Sparke has been commissioned to write a new eight minute work for brass band and narration to commemorate the centenary of the start of the First World War.

As well as performing the new work, delegates will also get the opportunity to attend an 'Audience with Philip Sparke' where he will talk about a number of his compositions as well answer question on this new major work.

Invite

Any budding composers or interested parties (not on the summer school) are also invited to spend the day with Philip and the band where they will receive lunch as well as attending the class and rehearsal for just £10.00

Speaking about the forthcoming Summer School Foden's Mark Wilkinson told 4BR: "All the Bolsover staff are looking forward to this year’s course where the band delegates will also perform at three outdoor venues at Dobbies Garden Centre, Bolsover Castle and Renishaw Gardens.

We are very pleased to welcome Brett and Simone to the coaching team who will also be featured as our guest soloists at the finale concert which will be held at Heritage High School on Friday 1st August."

Philip Sparke has been commissioned to write a new eight minute work for brass band and narration to commemorate the centenary of the start of the First World War4BR

Applications

Mark added: "We have already received a number of applications from interested musicians and families keen on signing up to a friendly and musically rewarding course, as well as taking up the option of staying at the excellent Ibis Hotel at Barlborough which is covered in the residential fee."

More information

Anyone requiring info on the summer school or attending an audience with Philip Sparke is asked to contact carole.hirst@bolsover.gov.uk

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    


Mike Kilroy

Kilroy steps back from BBE role to follow health treatment

September 7 • Mike Kilroy will take a temporary step down as Chairperson of Brass Bands England to undergo treatment for prostate cancer.


Music of the Spheres

Check out the Spheres before Symphony Hall

September 7 • The countdown to the British Open sees the competing bands previewing their final preparations on 'Music of the Spheres' — so why not pop along and see how they are getting on.


Money

British Open Countdown: T minus 5

September 7 • Glory and cash. One is priceless, the other pays the bills... but how much are they worth?


Murray Greig

Greig's to deliver in Leicester for free

September 7 • There is a free day of brass for young players to enjoy under the expert tuition of Murray Grieg this weekend — so make sure you sign up to enjoy.


The Hepworth Band - Public Rehearsal ahead of the 2026 British Open

Tuesday 8 September • Ossett Town Hall, Market Place, Ossett WF5 8BE


Sherborne Town Band - Free-Music in the park

Sunday 13 September • Sherborne, Dorset-Pageant Gardens DT9 3NP


Regent Hall Concerts - The Band of the Grenadier Guards

Thursday 17 September • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - The Duchess of Edinburgh String Orchestra

Friday 18 September • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - The Band of the Irish Guards

Thursday 1 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Barnsley Brass

September 6 • We are looking to recruit a Flugel Horn and Back Row Cornet players. We are based in Worsbrough Bridge by the A61 south of Barnsley. S70 5LJ. Rehearsals are Mondays / Thursdays at 8pm in our purpose-built band room..


Enderby Band

September 5 • Championship section band seeking CORNETS (positions negotiable), Eb BASS, and PERCUSSIONISTS to join our committed, hard-working and friendly team, performing a balanced diary of concerts and contests.


Harrogate Band

September 4 • The Harrogate Band are looking for a 1st Baritone and Soprano player to complete our team. Forward thinking and exciting band with a wide range of engagements and contests. Rehearsals are Wednesday 8pm in our own bandroom with great transport links.


David Hirst

MA, B.Ed (Hons), LTCL
Conductor, adjudicator and arranger


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd