*
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    


Cory

Last chord for Cory legends

June 30 • The final notes of a decade of unprecedented success have been delivered by Glyn and Helen Williams at Cory Band.


Hepworth

Report & Result: Red Admiral March & Hymn Tune Contest

June 30 • The wizards of Hepworth pick up yet another march and hymn tune victory as they take the inaugural Red Admiral honours.


Crofton

Result: Wetherby Drovers March & Hymn Tune Contest

June 30 • Crofton Silver drive home with the top prize at Wetherby.


Mnozil

Mnozil Brass booked for Symphony Hall in 2027

June 30 • After their memorable performance in Birmingham on the weekend, over 650 tickets have already been snapped up for their 2027 return.


Brass Bands England - Brass Band Week

Saturday 5 July • Nation wide


Besses Boys' Band - Besses Boys' Band Summer Concert

Saturday 5 July • The Derby High School, Radcliffe Rd, Bury BL9 9NH


Putney and Wimbledon Brass Band - Summer Concert

Sunday 6 July • Community Church Putney, Werter Road. SW15 2LL


Longridge Band - Anniversary Concert

Saturday 12 July • Longridge Civic Hall, 1 Calder Avenue, Longridge, Preston PR3 3HT


Haverhill Silver Band - Proms Concert - St Ives

Saturday 12 July • Hill Rise Park, St Ives PE27 6SP


Linthwaite Band

July 1 • We are a friendly 4th section contesting band with various engagements throughout the year, and currently have a vacancy for a cornet player (position negotiable) and are keen to fill the position. Please see contact details below.


Newport Borough Brass Band

July 1 • We are inviting applications for the position of Principal Cornet. . Would you like to be a part of the process to lead & shape the future of the band? Newport Borough Brass Band are looking for a dynamic Principal Cornet player to lead the team.


Newport Borough Brass Band

July 1 • We are inviting applications for the position of Musical Director.. The band are looking for a positive and dynamic leader who can further develop our players skills & aid us in our aspirations of reaching the 1st section.


Mark Wilkinson


Cornet Soloist, Teacher, Adjudicator, Conductor


               

 © 2025 4barsrest.com Ltd