*
banner

90th birthday — and still at band practice...

The fantastic trombone player George Lavery recently celebrated his 90th birthday at band practice...

Spennyoor
 

A lifelong member and trombone player of Spennymoor Town Band, George Lavery, has just celebrated his 90th birthday — at band.

At band

George reached the landmark on Sunday 25th January, and started the day at band rehearsal (as he has done now for over 75 years) — although he did enjoy a champagne reception, the presentation of a number of gifts and a special rendition of ‘Happy Birthday’ led by Spennymoor’s Town Mayor.

George is an example of what true brass banding is about: 100% commitment, attending all rehearsals and engagements, and practising every dayBand Vice-President, Hugh Stephenson

True brass banding

Band Vice-President, Hugh Stephenson, told 4BR: “George is an example of what true brass banding is about: 100% commitment, attending all rehearsals and engagements, and practising every day."

Meanwhile, the Mayor added: “George is a wonderful and interesting man to be with and his knowledge about brass bands in the North East of England is second to none."

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    


jENA

Basic skills help players flourish in Germany

August 20 • Over 50 players of different abilities have benefitted from attending the seventh International Summer Brass Band Camp (ISBBC), organised by the Jena Brass Band Competence Centre.


Carousel

Carousel additions to enjoy...

August 19 • 4BR has added a new sextet of products to its homepage Carousel — so you can just click and find out more, direct from the seller.


wright and round

Wright & Round: The Circle of Life (Elton John & Tim Rice arr. Philip Harper)

August 19 • One of the great Disney songs brought to 'life' by Philip Harper.


Vertommen

Vertommen takes on new role in Leuven

August 19 • Dr. Luc Vertommen becomes the new Head of Band Conducting at Luca School of Arts in Leuven.


Regent Hall Concerts - Cross Bones Trombone Quintet

Friday 21 August • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Sherborne Town Band - Free-Music in the park

Sunday 23 August • Sherborne, Dorset-Pageant Gardens DT9 3NP


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


Putney and Wimbledon Brass Band

August 18 • Putney and Wimbledon Band are looking for a percussionist, ideally tune although the ability to play an anvil is an absolute must! We play exciting music with lots of percussion so there's plenty to keep you occupied.


Putney and Wimbledon Brass Band

August 18 • Putney and Wimbledon Brass Band are looking for brass and percussion players to join their new concert band who will be making music for the good folk in London, without the pressure of contesting.


Marconi Brass

August 15 • We are looking for a cornet to join our friendly, ambitious second section band under the baton of our Musical Director, Jonathan Crowhurst. Based in Rochester, Kent, we rehearse on a Monday evening at Holcombe Hockey Club, 19:45-21:30.


Lt Col David Barringer MBE

BMus (Hons)
Conductor and adjudicator


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd