*
banner

Death of Jim Williams

The death has been announced of one of Welsh banding's finest stalwarts — James Williams of Northop Band.

Northop
 

The North Wales Brass Band Association has reported the death of Jim Williams, it's popular and much loved former Chairman. Jim died on Wednesday 19th January aged 87.

Uncle Jim

Jim began his banding with the Connah's Quay Band, moving on to Northop where he eventually became Secretary during a time when they were making considerable progress. He was also for a time, Secretary to the Deeside Band.

Jim maintained his links with Northop as a Trustee and assisted with the teaching of young players, to many of whom he was 'Uncle Jim'.

Chairman

He also served as Chairman of the North Wales Association for over 20 years until deteriorating health forced him to stand down three years ago.

During his time as Chairman he was a key figure in the creation of the Wales Region of the National Championships and a founder member of the new Regional Committee.

He also served on the National Eisteddfod of Wales committee and presided over innumerable local contests. A mine of jokes and funny stories, Jim was a master of entertaining an audience impatient to hear the results.

In 2009, he was placed on the Welsh Regional Committee's 'Roll of Honour' for services to banding in Wales. Jim Williams will be sadly missed by everyone connected with bands in Walesspokesperson

Steadfast supporter

A spokesperson told 4BR: "Jim was a steadfast supporter of North Wales bands and was well respected by all. In 2009, he was placed on the Welsh Regional Committee's 'Roll of Honour' for services to banding in Wales. Jim Williams will be sadly missed by everyone connected with bands in Wales.

Our very sincere condolences go to his family at this very sad time."

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    


4BR Podcast

4BR Review — Episode 22

October 2 • A preview of the 2026 Championship Section National Final at the Royal Albert Hall and the issues that arise....


NYBBGB

NYBBGB launches Young Composer competition

October 2 • Young composers aged 30 and under are being asked to create a new work for the National Youth Brass Band of Great Britain.


James Shepherd

New award to be presented at Royal Albert Hall

October 2 • A wonderful new award in memory of one of the greatest ever cornet players will be made at the Royal Albert Hall this weekend.


Black Dyke Band

Tributes to Hammonds duo at Black Dyke

October 2 • The Black Dyke Band has paid tribute to Jon and Tim Hammond as they prepare to take their final contest bow with the Queensbury Band this weekend.


Regent Hall Concerts - Consort Brass Quintet

Friday 2 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - BoneVoyage Trombone Quartet

Friday 2 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - Foden's Band

Friday 2 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Bilton Silver Rugby Band - Nobody Does It Better - The Music of James Bond.

Saturday 3 October • St Andrew's Church, Church Street, Rugby CV21 3PT


Regent Hall Concerts - The Regent Hall Band of the Salvation Army

Sunday 4 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Olney Brass

September 30 • We are a friendly and committed THIRD SECTION band looking for:. . - CORNETS (Front & Back Row). - SOLO HORN. . Engagements and concerts in the Olney/Milton Keynes area.. Rehearsals in Milton Keynes MK15 (5 mins from J14 of M1) on Tuesdays 7.45-9.45pm.


Ashington Colliery Band

September 30 • Tenor Trombone: We're a friendly, ambitious Second Section band based in South East Northumberland just north of Blyth. We rehearse Tuesdays & Thursdays, 19:30-21:30, and transport can be provided depending on location.


Waltham St. Lawrence Silver Band

September 28 • . Our welcoming non-contesting community band, based near Maidenhead, Bracknell and Reading, has openings for: . Percussion, kit and tuned: a lovely pair of timps awaits you!.


David Hirst

MA, B.Ed (Hons), LTCL
Conductor, adjudicator and arranger


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd