*
banner

Eager wait for JSVB Renaissance

The famous James Shepherd Versatile Brass ensemble will be releasing their first new commercial recording for 30 years later this month.

jsvb LOGO
 

Fans of the famous James Shepherd Versatile Brass will be eagerly awaiting the release of the ensemble’s first CD — their first bespoke commercial recording for over 30 years.

40 years

Formed in 1972, Versatile Brass has performed around the world for over 40 years, and whilst the personnel has changed the world class standard of the ensemble has remained — as has the iconic figure of James Shepherd, who still performs with the group.

Renaissance

The CD entitled ‘Renaissance’ has been recorded by former Versatile Brass member Kevin Edwards with his company Mayday Music and features the current group of personnel in the type of relaxed music making that has made them a household name for excellence.

There are solos from the likes of Rob Westacott, David Pogson, Kevin Holdgate, Helen Varley, Trevor Slade and of course James Shepherd who features not once but twice!

Versatile Brass has performed around the world for over 40 years, and whilst the personnel has changed the world class standard of the ensemble has remained4BR

Old and new

Commenting on the forthcoming release which will be reviewed on 4BR, Kevin Holdgate said: ‘We are all very pleased with the new CD. We have tried to mix some of the old, much requested Versatile Brass classics such as ‘Strike up the Band’ and ‘Havah Nagila’ with new compositions and arrangements.

We hope, that just like our concerts, there is something for everyone to enjoy, and admire on the new release."

Find out more:

To find out a bit more go to: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V_153APvEy4

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    


willebroek

Willebroek concert showcase at Dutch Nationals

June 3 • The current European, World and Belgian Champion will cross the border to provide a special concert at the Dutch National Championships later this year.


Fodens

Foden's to provide National preview

June 3 • Foden's will once again head to Regent Hall the night before the National Championship to give a sneak preview of what's to come at the Albert Hall...


CalderPips

CalderPips set to grip the Whit Friday weight

June 3 • If you want to protect your back and posture for the hard yards around the Whit Friday circuit then make sure you get your CalderPips Grip on order


Dylan Williams

Gorsedd honour for Williams

June 3 • Conductor and player Dylan Williams joins a prestigious intake of new members of the Gorsedd of Bards at the National Eisteddfod of Wales.


Contest: Whit Friday March Contests

Friday 13 June • Saddleworth & Tameside OL3


Hebden Bridge Brass Band - The 13th annual Hebden Bridge March Contest

Sunday 15 June • St George's Square, Hebden Bridge HX7 8ET


Croy Silver Band - Summer Concert

Thursday 26 June • Holy Cross Parochial Hall, Constarry Rd, Croy, Glasgow G65 9JG


The Portsmouth Grammar School - Concert by The Black Dyke Band

Saturday 28 June • St Marys Church, Fratton, Portsmouth PO15PA PO15PA


Simon Langton Brass - Deal Memorial Bandstand

Sunday 29 June • The Strand, Walmer, Deal CT14 7DY CT14 7DY


RAF Wyton Area Voluntary Band

June 1 • A highly motivated and talented musician with strong organisational skills is required to lead the RAF Wyton Area Voluntary Band as the Voluntary Band Instructor. This is a full time paid position (37 hrs pw)


Croy Silver Band

June 1 • Croy Silver Band currently has contest vacancies on Cornet and Percussion, but we always welcome enquiries for any section of the band. We rehearse in Croy on Monday and Thursday evenings from 7:30pm.


Epping Forest Band

May 31 • Epping Forest band have a vacancy for solo horn.. We are a friendly 3rd section band with a variety of gigs through out the year.. We have our own band hut with close to links with London Underground central line and the M11 motorway.


Stan Lippeatt

BA, LRSM
Conductor, adjudicator, tutor


               

 © 2025 4barsrest.com Ltd