*
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    


British Open judges

Adjudication panel announced for British Open Championship

June 23 • Another move to the future for the British Open as Stephen Roberts, Anne Crookston and David Hirst are confirmed as the judges for the 171st Championship event at Symphony Hall in September.


Liberty Brass Band

Report & Result: 2025 Mountain Brass in Concert

June 23 • Liberty Brass Band wins the first Swiss 'Brass in Concert' entertainment title


Bugle

Report & Results: 2025 West of England Bandsmens Festival

June 23 • Camborne retain their Royal Trophy credentials as gain a huge haul of silverware in Bugle, as St Austell, Shrewton Silver, Illogan Sparnon Silver, St Austell Youth and Carharrack & St Day Silver also head home with titles.


Hepworth

Report & Result: 2025 Blackburn & Darwen March & Hymn Tune Contest

June 23 • Hepworth showcase their grand march and hymn tune talents as they take the honours and £1000 first prize at the popular event.


The Portsmouth Grammar School - Concert by The Black Dyke Band

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


Petworth Town Band - Fete in the Park with Petworth Town Band

Saturday 28 June • Grounds of Petworth Park GU28 9LR


Petworth Town Band - Farnham Brass Band and Petworth Town Band

Saturday 28 June • Farnham Carnival


Petworth Town Band - Petworth Town Band at Billingshurst Carnival

Sunday 29 June • Carnival through Billingshurst and concert at Recreation Ground RH14 9SX


Simon Langton Brass - Deal Memorial Bandstand

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


Alder Valley Brass

June 26 • We are looking for BBb bass and soprano cornet players to join our ambitious, busy and sociable 2nd section band (national finalists 2023) with a good blend of concerts, engagements and contests. Rehearsals Mondays and Thursdays 8-10pm in Farnham, Surrey.


Bilton Silver Rugby Band

June 25 • With a varied upcoming programme of events and following on from our successful "Musicals" concert and first ever trip to Saddleworth for Whit Friday, the band requires an Eb Bass player to join our group.


Alder Valley Brass

June 24 • As a result of a relocation we seek a Musical Director. We are an ambitious, busy and sociable 2nd section band (L&SC, National finalists 2023) with a blend of engagements, concerts and contests. We rehearse 8-10pm on Mondays and Thursdays in Farnham


Stan Lippeatt

BA, LRSM
Conductor, adjudicator, tutor


               

 © 2025 4barsrest.com Ltd