*
banner

Something for those in the middle as Saxhorn Fest comes to Salford

Katrina Marzella and Helen Varley will lead a special 'Saxhorn Fest' Day at the University of Salford — and its open to all those who like to explore the potential of the middle of the band sound

Katrina and Helen
  Katrina Marzella and Helen Varley will lead the Saxhorn Fest day

A new combined Tenor Horn & Baritone 'Saxhorn Fest' is to be held at the University of Salford in early 2018 aimed at exploring and developing the potential of the traditional brass band 'middle of the band'.

The event at Peel Hall on Saturday 3rd February will be led by Katrina Marzella of Black Dyke and Helen Varley of Grimethorpe Colliery, both of who are highly respected instrumental lecturers at the University as well as being leading exponents of the baritone and tenor horn.

All ages and abilities

Run with the support of the Salford Saturday Music School, a monthly event set up by the University's Music Department to enhance those wanting to advance their skills in music, the 'Saxhorn Fest' will run from 10.00am to 4.00pm, and will be an inclusive day of fun filled activities aimed at all ages and abilities.

These will include ensemble playing and featured soloists, and will also premier new pieces written especially for the occasion.

Heart of the brass band sound

Katrina told 4BR: "We're excited to be holding this joint event aimed specifically at the middle of the band, which we both think the heart of the brass band sound. We have some great activities for the participants and it is sure to be a fun day!"

Meanwhile, Helen added: "We are pleased to be holding the event at the University of Salford, where both Katrina and I are tutors. It's fantastic to see how the University music courses have increased recently, and this is the perfect venue for such an event."

We're excited to be holding this joint event aimed specifically at the middle of the band, which we both think the heart of the brass band soundKatrina Marzella

Sign up

The cost for the full day is just £5 payable on the day.

Places are limited, so please do get in touch quickly if you would like to take part. Anyone interested should e-mail Helen at HLVarley@gmail.com and register their name, instrument (tenor horn or baritone), approximate standard, band, e-mail address and phone number.

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    


Gregson and Bliss

Gregson and Bliss to challenge National Finalists

March 30 • Significant composer anniversaries will be marked at London and Cheltenham this year.


Results: 2025 National Youth Championships of Great Britain

March 30 • Youth Brass 2000 reclaims the Championship honours with Shepherd Youth Group taking the Performance title in Hull.


National Youth Champs

Hull ready for National Youth Championships

March 28 • There is a packed day of music making to enjoy at Hymers College in Hull on Saturday with a record field of bands and players taking to the stage.


Breet and Keith

Baker and Wilkinson renew Atlantic connection

March 28 • A 30 year musical friendship has been reconnected between Brett Baker and Dr Keith Wilkinson.


The Hepworth Band - A Mother's Day Gala Concert with HD9 Youth Brass

Sunday 30 March • The Civic, Holmfirth HD9 3AS


Hathersage Band - Hathersage Village Spring Concert

Saturday 5 April • Hathersage Methodist Church, Main Road, Hathersage S32 1BB


Bilton Silver Rugby Band - Bilton Silver at the Musicals

Saturday 5 April • St Andrew's Church, Rugby CV21 3PT


Rushden Town Band - Hope Spring Concert

Saturday 5 April • Hope Methodist Church, Linnets Lane, Higham Ferrers, Northamptonshire NN10 8DE


Regent Hall Concerts - The Central Band of the Royal Air Force

Friday 25 April • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London. . W1C2DJ


Bedford Town Band

March 30 • BBb bass position available at Bedford Town Band (First section). If you are interested in becoming part of our friendly band, we would love to hear from you. Planned contests this year include Wychavon .


Bedford Town Band

March 30 • Principal trombone player position available at Bedford Town Band (First section). If you are interested in becoming part of our friendly band, we would love to hear from you. Planned contests this year include Wychavon .


Shirley Band

March 29 • The Shirley Band (First Section) has a vacancy for a Percussionist, principally for mallet/timpani, with opportunity to cover kit if desired. If you are interested in becoming part of our friendly band, we would love to hear from you.


Derek Renshaw

ABBA Member
Conductor, Band Trainer and Adjudicator.


               

 © 2025 4barsrest.com Ltd