*
banner

Champions set for Vita Aeterna previews

You can still get the chance to hear the British Open test piece at the home of the reigning champion or at Birmingham before the big day...

Tredegar
 

There is still an opportunity to gain the chance to hear the set work, ‘Vita Aeterna Variations’ in Birmingham the night before the 162nd British Open Championship at Symphony Hall.

Birmingham concert

Reigning British Open champion Tredegar will be featured in the British Bandsman sponsored eve of contest event at the Sir Adrian Boult Hall of Birmingham Conservatoire, close to Symphony Hall, on Friday evening, starting at 7.30pm.

The Welsh band will defend its title following a very busy year as 2013 champion, and which this week saw them play at the premiere of the British film ‘Pride’ in London — returning home at 5.00am the following morning!

Honour

"It’s been a real honour to be introduced at concerts and high profile events as the British Open champion, and this concert rounds off the year superbly. We want to show that the band is in the very best of form as we strive to retain the title," MD Ian Porthouse told 4BR.

"Ed de Boer’s wonderful test piece will surely please the audience just as much as it has done with the bands, so the concert provides an ideal opportunity to get know it better before the big day."

Ideal opportunity

British Bandsman Editor Kenneth Crookston added: "The concert is an ideal opportunity for brass band fans from all over the world to enjoy a enjoyable musical aperitif to what will be a great contesting weekend.

Tredegar has provided a programme balanced to showcase their outstanding talents — all with the added bonus of giving the chance to also hear a preview of Ed de Boer’s superb test piece, ‘Vita Aeterna Variations’.

He added: "I would urge brass band supporters to book on line, or come along on the night and enjoy what promises to be a great evening — all with the added bonus of it not finishing too late!"

The concert is an ideal opportunity for brass band fans from all over the world to enjoy a enjoyable musical aperitif to what will be a great contesting weekendBritish Bandsman Editor Kenneth Crookston

Welsh Open rehearsal

If you cannot get to Birmingham for the concert there is also a chance to hear Tredegar in their open rehearsal this evening at their bandroom.

The free evening starts at 7.30pm, so make sure you get there early!

Birmingham booking

Book for Tredegar Town Band in Concert in Birmingham:
http://www.birmingham-box.co.uk/event/tredegar-town-band-in-concert/

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    


bbe

Progress and challenges reported at BBE AGM

February 16 • The recent Annual General Meeting of Brass Bands England saw reports of consolidation and progress as well as resetting and rebuilding.


Castell Beaumaris

Wright & Round: Castell Beaumaris (Andy Wareham)

February 16 • A new homage addition to the iconic castle marches of the great T.J. Powell from the pen of Andy Wareham.


Italian Brass BAND

New conducting talent supported in Rome

February 16 • The Italian Brass Band continues to help support its emerging brass band culture with its masterclass conducting series.


Royal College of Music

Royal College of Music offers weekend of Youth Brass tuition

February 15 • The RCM Youth Brass weekend will offer youngsters an invaluable opportunity of practical workshops and coaching this April.


Regent Hall Concerts - Royal Greenwich Brass Band

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


Regent Hall Concerts - Oompah Brass XXL

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


Regent Hall Concerts - Royal Greenwich Brass Band

Sunday 1 March • St. Alfege Church. Greenwich Church Street. London SE10 9BJ


Regent Hall Concerts - London Central Fellowship Band

Saturday 7 March • Regent Hall. (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - Regent Hall Band of the Salvation Army

Tuesday 10 March • Regent Hall. (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Oxted Band

February 17 • CORNET & TROMBONE - Our friendly, ambitious band is looking for a Cornet player (position negotiable) and Trombonists (1st and Bass) to complete our line up for 2026. Led by MD Darrell Scholes, we have a wide range of engagements and events planned.


West Wycombe Brass Band

February 15 • West Wycombe Brass Band are looking for a Flugel and Horn players, any position. Rehearsals Wednesday 7.45-9.45pm in own band hall. Give us a call or email.


Tintwistle Band

February 15 • We need a 2nd baritone player to help complete our team. . We are competing in the second section midlands area next month, but due to illness now also need to fill this seat for the contest.. We enjoy a full calendar of concerts,contests,and social events.


Sarah Groarke-Booth

BA (Hons) MA
Conductor, Adjudicator, Compere, Actor


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd