*
banner

Strata adds strength ahead of Yorkshire top flight debut

New signings and some returning players boosts confidence for Strata Brass ahead of Championship Section debut at St George's Hall.

Strata Brass
 

Strata Brass has made a clutch of new signings ahead of their Championship Section debuts at the Yorkshire Area in Bradford next month under the baton of MD Dr Owen Wedgwood.

Signings

Russell Cavanagh takes the principal cornet role with Helena Wardle-Spenceley coming in on flugel from Blidworth Band. Nigel Bunting has signed on Eb tuba from Cornerstone Brass, whilst Samantha Pearson (solo cornet) and Steven Shipman (percussion) return after a break due to study and family commitments.

Simon Fisher is another returnee on Eb tuba with Victoria Hallworth moving from second horn to solo baritone.

The band is working hard to compete at this level which is a new challenge as we were in the Second Section just three years agoBand Secretary Paul Wilkinson

Working hard

Band Secretary Paul Wilkinson told 4BR: "The band is working hard to compete at this level which is a new challenge as we were in the Second Section just three years ago."

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    


Marsden

Marsden thanks banding community for support

January 9 • Marsden Silver Prize Band has thanked the banding world for its offers of its help after flooding damages its bandroom and contents.


Cockerton

Wilson takes lead at Cockerton

January 9 • The experienced Duncan Wilson becomes the new Musical Director of Cockerton Prize Silver Band


Lincolnshire

Lincolnshire showcase returns

January 9 • The Lincolnshire Music Education Hub's 'Brass Band Showcase' returns later this year with the promise of it being bigger and better than ever.


RNCM

Research recognition for RNCM

January 8 • The Royal Northern College of Music adds to its established recognition as a leading centre for the advanced study of music performance and composition.


Newstead Brass - Brett Baker

Saturday 17 January • St Wilfrid's Church, . Kirkby-in-Ashfield NG17 8LA


The Hepworth Band - New Year Concert

Sunday 25 January • Christ Church, New Mill, Holmfirth HD9 7ER


Contest: Norwegian National Brass Band Championships

Friday 6 February • Grieghallen, Bergen, N-5015 N-5015


Contest: Norwegian National Brass Band Championships

Saturday 7 February • Grieghallen, Bergen, N-5015 N-5015


Contest: London & Southern Counties Regional Championships

Saturday 21 March • Arts & Leisure Centre, Lytton Way, Stevenage SG1 1LZ


Putney and Wimbledon Brass Band

January 8 • Following our promotion to the 2nd section we are looking for a percussionist to do a bit of bing bonging on the timps for the regionals in March. We are a lovely band - everyone says so - so please get in touch. Rehearsals Weds from 1930 in Putney.


Mid Rhondda Band

January 6 • Mid Rhondda Band are currently looking for a trombone player and percussionists to join the team. We are a friendly, welcoming 3rd section band working towards competing in the Welsh Area in March. We also have a variety of events booked for 2026.


The Marple Band

January 6 • Bb Bass and Tuned Percussionist vacancies to join our fabulous band. We are a friendly, ambitious 2nd Section band, starting an exciting new year.


Jenny Gartside

Bsc Hons
Jeweller, brass band themed jewellery and pin badges


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd