*
banner

Robert Childs takes lead role at Woodfalls

After leading them to the British Open, Dr Robert Childs takes on key Music Advisor role with Woodfalls.

Bob Childs
 

Woodfalls Band has announced that following their qualification to the British Open Championship at the recent Grand Shield contest in Blackpool, they have received a further musical boost with the news that Dr Robert Childs has accepted the post of Music Advisor.

Work closely

Dr Childs will now work closely with Musical Director Phil Randall and will assist in all areas of the musical development of the West of England band.

The appointment will also see the Grimethorpe Director of Music take over the role from his brother, Prof Nicholas Childs with immediate effect, and will see him commit to Woodfalls on a weekly basis. He will also conduct them at competitions where there is no clash with his Yorkshire band.

Thanks

Woodfalls Chairman, Paul Street told 4BR: "We would like to thank Prof Nicholas Childs for his outstanding help and guidance as Musical Advisor over a long period of time, and wish him well with both Black Dyke and Whitburn.

We are all now looking forward to working more closely with Dr Robert Childs, who is committed to us on a weekly basis."

Potential

Bob Childs told 4BR: "I thoroughly enjoy working with Woodfalls. They are a great bunch of people who have the potential to make a real impression on major contests.

With that in mind, my first job is selecting a conductor to lead them at the British Open this year. We are already in discussions with a top class musician and will be making an announcement very soon."

I thoroughly enjoy working with Woodfalls. They are a great bunch of people who have the potential to make a real impression on major contestsDr Robert Childs

Commitment

He added: "Grimethorpe will always take priority where my diary clashes, but I'm committing to Woodfalls on a weekly basis and intend conducting them at as many other competitions I can."

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    


Greig Hall

No relegation for Norwegian non payers

March 2 • There will be no relegation to the Fifth Division for the bands who didn't pay their membership fees on time this year — but it is not a precedent for the future.


Blackpool

Results: 2026 North West Regional Championships

March 1 • Titles go to Foden's, Haydock, Lostock Hall, Allerton Brass and Wardle Community Band in Blackpool.


rooms4groups

rooms4gropups ready for Blackpool qualifiers

February 28 • The specialist hotel booking company will be on hand first thing on Monday morning to take the pressure of York and London qualifiers.


Blackpool

York and London on the horizon for North West Area contenders

February 28 • The 2026 Regional Championships get underway in Blackpool on Sunday with 75 taking to the stage at the Winter Gardens but with qualification sights on York and London.


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


Dobcross Silver Band

March 2 • Following an exceptionally pleasing 1st result at the recent Area contest (2nd section, 4th place), we invite applications for the position of 2ND BARITONE. We are a friendly, progressive and social band!


West Wycombe Brass Band

March 1 • West Wycombe Brass Band are looking for Horn players, any position. Rehearsals Wednesday 7.45-9.45pm in own band hall. Give us a call or email.


Croy Silver Band

March 1 • Croy Silver Band currently has contest vacancies on Cornet and Percussion, but is always happy to accommodate enthusiastic new players in any section of the band.


Prof. Christopher Houlding

MMus, GGSM, LRAM
Conductor, Performer, Educator


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd