*
banner

Hamilton gains pole position at Eccles

David Hamilton has been appointed Associate Musical Director of the Eccles Borough Band.

Eccles Borough
 

Eccles Borough Band has announced the appointment of David Hamilton to the role of Associate Musical Director.

This appointment comes as the Butlins champion prepares for its appearance in the Second Section at the North West Area contest in Blackpool on 1st March.

Alongside

David, who studied at the Royal Scottish Academy of Music & Drama, spent a successful period as resident conductor of Camborne Band and is a past winner of the National Association of Brass Band Conductors conducting competition.

He will now work alongside professional Musical Director Marieka Gray as Eccles look to add the North West title to their increasingly impressive CV of contesting successes and high profile concert appearances. He will also continue to play tuba with the band.

Delighted

David told 4BR: “I'm delighted to be working alongside Mareika. The band has outstanding players and has a great attitude towards improvement. I'm really looking forward to helping shape the band for the future.”

I’m very pleased that Dave has accepted the associate role at Eccles. He brings an extra dynamic to the band with his expertise and musicianshipProfessional MD, Marieka Gray

Extra dynamic

That is something Mareika Gray is also looking forward to: “I’m very pleased that Dave has accepted the associate role at Eccles,” she told 4BR. “He brings an extra dynamic to the band with his expertise and musicianship.

He is a loyal bandsman and has the very best interests of Eccles at heart — something which I know will help me and be invaluable to the band.”

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


Stephen Tighe

ARCM, LDBBA, (Dip)PFS.
Adjudicator / Music Director / Arranger


               

 © 2025 4barsrest.com Ltd