*
banner

Festive traditions brings brothers reunited

The Wilkinson brothers Mark and David reunite in the same brass band

The Wilkinson brothers
  The Wilkinson brothers reunited

All the traditional Christmas favourites of mince pies, carolling, family reunions and community spirit came together with Besses Boys Band at their recent annual Christmas Concert in Prestwich.

Wilkinson re-union

The family reunion came when Foden's principal cornet player Mark Wilkinson joined his brother David, who has recently returned to Besses Boys having performed around the world with his ABBA tribute band, 'ABBA Again'.

Welcoming Mark back for the one-off performance, MD James Holt commented that it was the first time the brothers had performed side-by-side on stage since the late 1980s.

Great return

Asked how he felt about performing with his brother again, Mark told 4BR: "It was great and I'm pleased that he's made a return to banding. The last time we played together like this was nearly 30 years ago when we were both members of Besses.

It was great to return to the band which gave us so much enjoyment and musical training all those years ago."

Proud

Meanwhile, David added: "Performing in a brass band again is something that I never thought would happen, let alone alongside my brother. Getting to sit next to him was amazing. I'm very proud of his accomplishments and the concert brought back a flood of fond memories."

The Band was also joined by members of Bury-based Helen's Angels Performing Arts Academy, directed by David's wife, Helen Wilkinson.

Helen said: "Some of the children have only performed in front of family and friends until now, so to be performing to an audience of over 250 people, including the Mayor, was a fabulous opportunity."

Getting to sit next to him was amazing. I'm very proud of his accomplishments and the concert brought back a flood of fond memoriesDavid Wilkinson

Mince pies

Besses Boys Youth Band, conducted by Tom Ridgley, completed the line-up for an afternoon of festive favourites with a programme that showcased an interactive performance of 'The Twelve Days of Christmas', traditional community carol singing, and Bavarian shunkelling — as well as the obligatory mince pies.

Chairman Neil Matthews told 4BR: "Of the many concerts we perform throughout the year, this is by far our favourite. It's fantastic to be playing to a packed hall and to enjoy some real festive cheer with the wider community."

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    


ISB and Fodens

Friday night Gregson spotlights

October 10 • You will be spoilt for a Gregson choice between the ISB and Ian Bousfield and Foden's and Mike Lovatt if you are in London this evening.


World of Brass

Make sure you pick up the latest releases at the Albert Hall

October 10 • The World of Brass trade stand will be packed with musical goodies — from the study score of 'Symphony in Two Movements' to the latest releases from Cory, Tredegar, Brett Baker and the ISB.


Edward Gregson

The composer's viewpoint

October 10 • Edward Gregson talks about 'Symphony in Two Movements' to Dr Robert Childs — as well as previewing it on Radio 3 before the contest day itself.


Swiss

What's your National knowledge like?

October 10 • The Swiss brass band website 'Brass Band News' is testing your knowledge of the winners of the National Championship title to see how many you can name in the right years since 1900.


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


Audley Brass

October 10 • Audley Brass (First Section National Finalists 2025) are seeking a first class PRINCIPAL EUPHONIUM. We have some very exciting events coming up including 3 epic beer festival nights and Wychavon Festival of Brass entertainment contest.


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.


Prof. Christopher Houlding

MMus, GGSM, LRAM
Conductor, Performer, Educator


               

 © 2025 4barsrest.com Ltd