*
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    


Oldroyd

Oldroyd interest boosts ethos

February 6 • The new range of Oldroyd instruments is already making a mark.


UniBrass

Welsh youth to perform at UniBrass Championships

February 5 • The South Wales Youth Band will provide extra entertainment ahead of the results at the UniBrass Championships in Cardiff next weekend.


Artistic

NYBBGB looks to next generation Artistic lead

February 5 • The National Youth Brass Band of Great Britain is looking to appoint a new Director of Artistic Planning.


Northop Silver

Wyss to lead Northop numbers in Swansea

February 5 • Thomas Wyss will lead Northop Silver and its new signings at the Welsh Regional Championships


Contest: Norwegian National Brass Band Championships

Friday 7 February • Grieghallen, Bergen, N-5015. N-5015


Regent Hall Concerts - Junior Guildhall Brass Band

Friday 7 February • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Haverhill Silver Band - Concert in Clare Church

Saturday 8 February • St Peter and St Paul Church, Clare, Suffolk CO10 8NY


Contest: Norwegian National Brass Band Championships

Saturday 8 February • Grieghallen, Bergen, N-5015 N-5015


Newstead Brass - VALENTINE'S VARIATIONS

Sunday 9 February • Ashwood Centre . Kirkby in Ashfield. Nottinghamshire Ng17 7ab


wantage silver band

February 5 • Wantage Band (championship section) has a vacancy for TOP 2ND CORNET. This would suit a player with experience in a championship/first section band. Rehearsals take place every Sun 7:30pm and Wed 8pm in Wantage with highly experienced MD Chris King.


Haverhill Silver Band

February 4 • Haverhill Silver Band (champ section) seeks a BACK ROW CORNET. This is a superb opportunity to join East Anglia's premier brass band for the area contest, the Senior Cup, Whit Friday and beyond. Applications to join after the area contest also considered.


Bilton Silver Rugby Band

February 1 • Due to some seating changes, Bilton Silver (Rugby) requires a percussionist to join our Championship Section band for the Midlands Regional contest. Rehearsals are held on Monday and Friday at 7-45pm in our own purpose built bandroom.


Jack Capstaff

Bmus (Hons)
Conductor | Composer


               

 © 2025 4barsrest.com Ltd