*
banner

Decade of success comes to an end at Darwen

The musical partnership between Steve Hartley and Darwen Brass has come to an end.

Steve Hartley
  Steve Hartley led Darwen Brass from the Fourth to the Second Section.

The successful decade long musical partnership between Darwen Brass and Steve Hartley has come to an end.

The conductor has resigned as Musical Director and will leave the band after fulfilling Christmas commitments.

Heartfelt thanks

Speaking to 4BR, Steve said: "I would like to place on record my heartfelt thanks to all at Darwen Brass for their musicality, commitment and friendship over the past ten years.

It's been a fantastic journey which has seen the band progress from the Fourth to the Second Section, gaining contest wins and prizes and qualifying for the National Finals at Cheltenham on two occasions."

As I leave I would like to give the band my very best wishes, and I hope they continue to progress and prosper in the futureSteve Hartley

Victories

Success under Steve's baton included victories at the North West Regional Championship, Northern Open, Tameside Open, Brass at the Guild and Fleetwood.

He added: "I've made friends for life at Darwen and the past 10 years will remain very special to me. As I leave I would like to give the band my very best wishes, and I hope they continue to progress and prosper in the future."

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    


Bursary

National Youth Band launches 2027 Bursary Fund

September 29 • The National Youth Brass Band of Great Britain is calling on supporters to help raise £18,000 for its 2027 Bursary Fund.


Gavin Higgins

Higgins pride at presidential role at Tredegar

September 29 • Composer Gavin Higgins has become the proud new President of Tredegar Band.


Hepworth

Hepworth road to Albert Hall helped by great support

September 29 • The Yorkshire Champion has been aided on the road to the National Final by a raft of great local supporters.


MangerBrasswinds

Contemporary legacy continues at BrassWind Festival

September 29 • The 22nd BrassWind Festival once again showcased the new and original works.


Dobcross Silver Band -

Sunday 27 September • Dobcross Band and Social Club. Platt Lane. Dobcross. Saddleworth Oldham OL3 5AD


The Hepworth Band - Public Rehearsal ahead of the National Finals

Tuesday 29 September • Batley Town Hall WF17 5DA


Regent Hall Concerts - The Band of the Irish Guards

Thursday 1 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - Eagle Brass

Thursday 1 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - Consort Brass Quintet

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


Waltham St. Lawrence Silver Band

September 28 • . Our welcoming non-contesting community band, based near Maidenhead, Bracknell and Reading, has openings for: . Percussion, kit and tuned: a lovely pair of timps awaits you!.


Waltham St. Lawrence Silver Band

September 28 • Our inclusive non-contesting community band, based near Maidenhead, Bracknell and Reading, has vacancies for: . . Solo Cornet. Soprano Cornet. 2/3 Cornet. .


Waltham St. Lawrence Silver Band

September 28 • Our non-contesting community band, based near Maidenhead, Bracknell and Reading, seeks:. . 1st Horn . 2nd Baritone . .


Dave Collins

BA (Hons) (Dunelm) I, FSCO
Composer and Arranger


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd