*
banner

Osbourne looks back at personal Albert Hall gallery

Bob Osbourne of Redbridge Brass will enjoy looking back at over 50 years of competitive experience at the Royal Albert Hall this weekend.

Bob Osbourne
  Bob Osbourne made his debut at the Royal Albert Hall 52 years ago...

There will be one very proud cornet player looking back at something of a personal 'gallery' of his contesting life at the Royal Albert Hall this weekend.

Bob Osbourne of Redbridge Band will be celebrating over half a century since he first appeared at the event, when as something of a Cornish child prodigy he played third cornet with St Dennis Band on Gilbert Vinter's 'Triumphant Rhapsody'.

Sixteenth time

Now, 52 years later, Bob will take to the stage for the 16th time having played in every decade since that first appearance — including seven times with St Dennis, eight with Aveley & Newham and now his debut with Redbridge.

"In 1965 aged 10, I think I was the youngest player to play at the National Finals that day,"he told 4BR: "I never thought over 50 years later I would still be coming back!"

In 1965 aged 10, I think I was the youngest player to play at the National Finals that day. I never thought over 50 years later I would still be coming back!Bob Osbourne

Personal thrill

He added: "I know there have been older players, more successful players and those who have made many more appearances than me, but you still can't beat the personal thrill you get when you walk out onto the stage — even 52 years after you first did it."

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

High demand for premium tickets for British Open

June 5 • Premium tickets for the British Open are starting to become increasingly limited — so don't miss out.


Chav Brass

Chav Brass set for serious fun at Whit Friday

June 5 • The scallywags of the Whit Friday circuit will be performing with serious ambition this year as they seek to inspire the next generation with a mix of DJ Sammy and Eric Ball...


Whit Friday

2025 Tameside Whit Friday details confirmed

June 4 • From start times to prize money, contact details and essential information — the details of the Tameside Whit Friday contests have been announced.


EverReady

Enjoy Spring Festival highlights

June 4 • The British Open has produced a special YouTube feature capturing the highlights of the 2025 Spring Festival in Blackpool.


Contest: Whit Friday March Contests

Friday 13 June • Saddleworth & Tameside OL3


Hebden Bridge Brass Band - The 13th annual Hebden Bridge March Contest

Sunday 15 June • St George's Square, Hebden Bridge HX7 8ET


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


HYDE BAND

June 5 • WE CURRENTLY HAVE PLAYER VACANCIES FOR BB BASS, BARITONE & EUPHONIUM. Join our friendly 1st Section Band in the New forest, working with our Musical Director: Ben Halstead on a varied programme of concerts and contests. Rehearsals Mon & Thurs 8-10


Besses Boys' Band

June 4 • Besses Boys' Band (1st Section 2026) are looking for SOLO TROMBONE. Rehearsals Monday & Friday 7:30pm-9:30pm at Lady Wilton Hall, Manchester - Good links to M60 ring road and city centre. Fun band with good concert and social balance


Besses Boys' Band

June 4 • Besses Boys' Band (1st Section 2026) are looking for CORNET players (position negotiable). Rehearse Monday & Friday 7:30pm-9:30pm at Lady Wilton Hall, Manchester - Good links to M60 ring road and city centre. Fun band with good concert and social balance


Stephen Tighe

ARCM, LDBBA, (Dip)PFS.
Adjudicator / Music Director / Arranger


               

 © 2025 4barsrest.com Ltd