*
banner

Beckley steps down after 27 years at Newstead

Duncan Beckley steps down from his role as MD at Newstead Brass after a memorable span of 27 years...

Duncan Beckley
 

Newstead Brass has announced that after 27 years as Musical Director, Duncan Beckley will be stepping down from the role to allow him to concentrate on a wider range of musical opportunities.

Remarkable

Appointed in 1989, Duncan has overseen a remarkable rise to contesting prominence for the Midlands Area band — from the depths of the Second Section to challenging for the National Championship title at the Royal Albert Hall.

In the process he led Newstead to three Midland Regional Championship victories in different sections and four National Final appearances, whilst victories also came the Senior Cup in 2006, as well as the Buxton, National Mineworkers, Leicester and Bolsover contests. He also developed the band into an innovative and progressive concert performer.

Sad day

Band spokesperson, Michael Allcock told 4BR: "It's a sad day for Newstead Brass as Duncan has been an extremely important part of the band for so many years, and the achievements are a tribute to his hard work and dedication.

Few conductors have enjoyed such a long and rewarding connection to a single band, particularly in the Championship Section, and we have been privileged to share a musical journey together.

We wish Duncan well in whatever comes his way, and we also celebrate the success he has brought us over 27 memorable years."

Ambassador

Michael announced that Duncan will now become Newstead's 'Band Ambassador', as role that will see him help with the ongoing projects, events and player development plans.

I would like to thank everyone for a thoroughly enjoyable and rewarding time. I'm now looking forward to a number of exciting opportunities as I look to continue my conducting on a freelance basisDuncan Beckley

Huge part

In response, Duncan told 4BR: "The band has been a huge part of my life for the last 27 years, and it was a very difficult decision to step down. I'm delighted to keep my association with Newstead and also take this time to have a much earned rest.

I would like to thank everyone for a thoroughly enjoyable and rewarding time. I'm now looking forward to a number of exciting opportunities as I look to continue my conducting on a freelance basis."

Duncan's last official concert will be the Ripley Music Festival on the 16th July.

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    


Black Dyke Band

Marshall leads with Evo

October 9 • The Black Dyke principal cornet player will lead Black Dyke Band's National title challenge on his new Oldroyd Evo cornet.


NYBBWales

Closing date looms for National Youth Brass Band of Wales auditions

October 9 • Young Welsh players who wish to represent their brass banding nation still have time to book an audition date.


Besses

Besses welcome new principal cornet

October 9 • Danny Riley has become the new principal cornet at Besses o' th' Barn Band.


Mining

Blidworth to help celebrate proud mining heritage

October 9 • The sound of a brass band will return to the site of the former Clipstone Colliery as Blidworth Welfare Band helps celebrate a proud mining heritage.


Regent Hall Concerts - Stately Brass Quintet

Friday 10 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. WC1 2DJ W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - Academy Symphonic Brass

Friday 10 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. WC1 2DJ W1C2DJ


Hathersage Band - Hathersage Village Autumn Concert

Saturday 11 October • Hathersage Methodist Church, Main Road, Hathersage S32 1BB S32 1BB


Contest: National Brass Band Championships of Great Britain

Saturday 11 October • The Royal Albert Hall, Kensington Gore, South Kensington, London SW7 2AP


Regent Hall Concerts - Regent Hall Band of the Salvation Army

Tuesday 14 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. WC1 2DJ W1C2DJ


Chinnor Silver

October 8 • Our community band is meeting again 11am Monday 13th after completing our first gig.. We would love you to join us.We are a band of mixed abilities and welcome ALL players.. Blowing with us will not impact on your own band and its all free.


Welwyn Garden City Band

October 6 • We are a friendly & sociable Second Section Band with an exciting and varied Christmas season ahead. Due to an employment relocation, we have an immediate vacancy for a FRONT ROW CORNET player.


Tewit Silver Band

October 4 • Principal Eb Bass. Our established bass section are looking for a strong leader to elevate their performance - could that be you? We have an exciting contest schedule including the Scottish Open and and full set of new Besson basses!


Rob Nesbitt

BSc, PG Cert. Ed.
Cartoonist , illustrator, writer


               

 © 2025 4barsrest.com Ltd