*
banner

A4 duo to aid Brass for Africa

Jamie Smith and Michael Cavanagh are flying to Kampala to work with the Brass for Africa charity.

A4 Quartet
  The two members of the A4 Quartet are flying to Kampala.

Jamie Smith and Michael Cavanagh, both members of the A4 Brass Quartet and Grimethorpe Colliery Band, will fly to Kampala in Uganda this week to work with the Brass for Africa charity.

Their 10 day trip will see the pair both observe and work with the charity, as well as hopefully playing their part in helping to inspire children and adults by leading and performing in rehearsals.

Prizes

The duo also hope to help create a little bit of traditional British brass band competition, by hosting an informal solo contest where the young players will be rewarded with plenty of prizes that Jamie and Mike are taking over!

Mike told 4BR: "We are both looking forward so much to our first trip and to see how Brass for Africa changes the lives of so many people. If we can do our bit to help we will be thrilled."

We are both looking forward so much to our first trip and to see how Brass for Africa changes the lives of so many people. If we can do our bit to help we will be thrilledMichael Cavanagh

Life changing

Meanwhile, Jamie added: "We spoke to Alan Fernie on the phone a few weeks ago and he told us about what goes on there and how he believes it will also be a life changing experience for us both.

We cannot think of a better way to show the world what playing a brass band instrument can do."

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    


Cheltenham

Cheltenham judges confirmed

July 25 • The judges tasked with picking the winners at the 2025 Cheltenham National Finals have been announced.


Sold Out

National Youth Band sells out in London

July 25 • Its returns only if you wish to enjoy the NYBBGB in London next month with tickets going fast for the Childrens' Band too.


Italian Brass Band

Italian Brass Band continues to reach out to new audiences

July 25 • The Italian Band was joined by trombone soloist Andrea Conti for a festival performances in heart of Tuscany.


NYBBS

Perth ready for trio of NYBBS music makers

July 25 • Perth Concert Hall will host the trio of National Youth Brass Bands of Scotland later today — so if you are around why not pop along and enjoy them showcasing their talents.


Petworth Town Band - Dorset House School Fete

Saturday 26 July • Dorset House School RH20 1PB


Dobcross Silver Band - Marsden Silver Prize Band

Sunday 27 July • c/o Dobcross Band Club. Platt Lane. Dobcross Saddleworth OL3 5AD


Haverhill Silver Band - A Nightingale Sang... (an evening concert)

Saturday 2 August • Foakes Hall, Dunmow CM6 1DG


Haverhill Silver Band - East Anglian Beer & Cider Festival

Sunday 24 August • St Edmundsbury Cathedral, Bury St Edmunds IP33 1QX


Haverhill Silver Band - Concert in Saffron Hall

Wednesday 27 August • Saffron Hall, Audley End Road, Saffron Walden, Essex CB11 4UH


Dodworth Colliery MW Brass Band

July 25 • Ready for a NEW Music Challenge?. . Dodworth Brass Band, is looking for a new principal cornet as our current player prepares for retirement. Just 5mins from J37 M1. . friendly welcoming band with a packed calendar of exciting concerts & events. . . S75 3RF


Enderby Band

July 24 • Enderby Band (Leicestershire) are a Championship section band looking for: Bb BASS & PERCUSSION (expressions of interest from any perc disciplines are welcome). We are an ambitious, friendly, band with a sensibly full calendar of contests and concerts.


The Marple Band

July 24 • Cornet( back row), Baritone, Horn, Bb Bass and Kit percussionist vacancies to join our fabulous band. We are a friendly ambitious 2nd Section band, starting an exciting new musical journey with our MD Nick Birch.


John Durrant

MA LLCM TD CertEd (Dist)
Conductor, Band Trainer, Composer, Trumpet and Cornet Soloist, Arranger, Adjudicator


               

 © 2025 4barsrest.com Ltd