*
banner

St Austell welcomes new resident

The St Austell Band in Cornwall has welcomed the experienced David Nicholson as its new resident conductor.

Hands
  There will be an extra pair of hands leading the beat at St Austell

The St. Austell Band has announced the appointment of David Nicholson as resident Musical Director.

David will work in close association with Professional Conductor Steve Sykes, and brings a huge amount of experience with him to the role.

Experience

Rooted in the Salvation Army, where he was Bandmaster of the Birmingham Citadel Band for 10 years and a brass instructor at a number of the Army's regional music schools, he is also a former member of the International Staff Band's euphonium section.

David had a break from banding for a number of years when his work required him to be based overseas. However his move to Cornwall three years ago has enabled a return.

There's a sense of unity, purpose and direction here; a solid work ethic and a common desire to strive for the highest possible standardsDavid Nicholson

Sense of unity

He told 4BR: "St. Austell has so many talented and dedicated players, all of whom are ambitious and positive about the future. There's a sense of unity, purpose and direction here; a solid work ethic and a common desire to strive for the highest possible standards.

These are qualities which I believe will contribute to future success. I'm excited to be joining such a group and playing a leadership role in the journey ahead. I already feel part of the St. Austell Town Band family!"

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    


British Open judges

Adjudication panel announced for British Open Championship

June 23 • Another move to the future for the British Open as Stephen Roberts, Anne Crookston and David Hirst are confirmed as the judges for the 171st Championship event at Symphony Hall in September.


Liberty Brass Band

Report & Result: 2025 Mountain Brass in Concert

June 23 • Liberty Brass Band wins the first Swiss 'Brass in Concert' entertainment title


Bugle

Report & Results: 2025 West of England Bandsmens Festival

June 23 • Camborne retain their Royal Trophy credentials as gain a huge haul of silverware in Bugle, as St Austell, Shrewton Silver, Illogan Sparnon Silver, St Austell Youth and Carharrack & St Day Silver also head home with titles.


Hepworth

Report & Result: 2025 Blackburn & Darwen March & Hymn Tune Contest

June 23 • Hepworth showcase their grand march and hymn tune talents as they take the honours and £1000 first prize at the popular event.


The Portsmouth Grammar School - Concert by The Black Dyke Band

Saturday 28 June • St Marys Church, Fratton, Portsmouth PO15PA PO15PA


Petworth Town Band - Fete in the Park with Petworth Town Band

Saturday 28 June • Grounds of Petworth Park GU28 9LR


Petworth Town Band - Farnham Brass Band and Petworth Town Band

Saturday 28 June • Farnham Carnival


Petworth Town Band - Petworth Town Band at Billingshurst Carnival

Sunday 29 June • Carnival through Billingshurst and concert at Recreation Ground RH14 9SX


Simon Langton Brass - Deal Memorial Bandstand

Sunday 29 June • The Strand, Walmer, Deal CT14 7DY CT14 7DY


Alder Valley Brass

June 26 • We are looking for BBb bass and soprano cornet players to join our ambitious, busy and sociable 2nd section band (national finalists 2023) with a good blend of concerts, engagements and contests. Rehearsals Mondays and Thursdays 8-10pm in Farnham, Surrey.


Bilton Silver Rugby Band

June 25 • With a varied upcoming programme of events and following on from our successful "Musicals" concert and first ever trip to Saddleworth for Whit Friday, the band requires an Eb Bass player to join our group.


Alder Valley Brass

June 24 • As a result of a relocation we seek a Musical Director. We are an ambitious, busy and sociable 2nd section band (L&SC, National finalists 2023) with a blend of engagements, concerts and contests. We rehearse 8-10pm on Mondays and Thursdays in Farnham


Derek Renshaw

ABBA Member
Conductor, Band Trainer and Adjudicator.


               

 © 2025 4barsrest.com Ltd