*
banner

Hirst tenure ends at Unite

The musical partnership between David Hirst and Unite the Union Band has come to an end after 3 successful years.

uNITE THE uNION
 

4BR has been informed that after three years at the helm, David Hirst has relinquished his role as Musical Director at Unite the Union Band.

It is understood that his increasing adjudication and freelance conducting commitments, as well as his demanding role as secretary of Black Dyke band led to his difficult decision.

Victories

During his period as MD, the Yorkshire band secured a number of notable successes, including the Yorkshire Area, Butlins, Bolsover and Wychavon titles as well as critical acclaim for their inventive concert approach.

I've thoroughly enjoyed my time with Unite, which has been both successful and productive, but the time has come for me to move on and look to new challengesDavid Hirst

Enjoyed

David told 4BR: "I've thoroughly enjoyed my time with Unite, which has been both successful and productive, but the time has come for me to move on and look to new challenges."

Band Manager Clare Moore added: "David has worked hard with the band and the players responded to make it a winning combination."

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    


Eikanger-Bjørsvik celebrating

World Rankings: April 2026

April 9 • Eikanger-Bjørsvik return to the top of the rankings following their recent victory at the Norwegian Championships in Bergen.


Victoria Wood

Limited tickets only for NYBBGB Easter concerts

April 8 • There are only limited tickets left if you wish to enjoy the New Horizons Concerts of the National Youth Brass Band of Great Britain Leyburn and Manchester — so be quick.


Doodles

Spring upgrade from Doodles

April 8 • The bespoke mouthpiece business is offering a Spring custom upgrade...


Banstand

Radio: Bandstand

April 8 • More brass band music to enjoy from Lucas Burns in Australia with one work about a dog and a bomb...


Regent Hall Concerts - Central Band of the Royal Air Force

Friday 1 May • Regent Hall. (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - Royal Greenwich Brass Band

Sunday 3 May • St Alfege Church. Greenwich Church Street SE10 9BJ


Regent Hall Concerts - FiveBy5 Trumpet Quintet

Tuesday 5 May • Charlton House and Gardens. Charlton Road, . London. . SE7 8RE


Regent Hall Concerts - Royal Greenwich Brass Band

Friday 8 May • Regent Hall. (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Wardle Anderson Brass Band - Wardle Junior Blast

Friday 8 May • Milnrow Parish Church, 16 Westward Ho, Milnrow, Rochdale OL16 3JX


Glossop Old Band

April 9 • Our friendly second section band are looking for a principal cornet player to join us for contests, concerts and exciting new projects. Glossop Old Band is situated between Manchester and Sheffield and rich in history.


Harrogate Band

April 8 • We are looking for a Solo Cornet and Back Row Cornet to complete our team. . Interesting mix of engagements and contests. . Rehearsals Wednesday 8pm at our own bandroom located next to Hornbeam Park train station. Great transport links


Glossop Old Band

April 8 • Our friendly second section band are looking for a BB bass player to join us for contests, concerts and exciting new projects. Glossop Old Band is situated between Manchester and Sheffield and rich in history.


Alan Widdop


Conductor, Brass teacher, Adjudicator (ABBA)


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd