*
banner

Chris Jeans takes baton at GUS Band

The acclaimed trombone soloist takes on the role of Artistic Director of Music with Midlands champion, GUS Band

cHRIS jENS
  The highly respected Chris Jeans will take on the Artistic Director role at GUS Band.

The internationally acclaimed trombone player Chris Jeans has been appointed as the new Artistic Director of Music of the GUS Band

He takes on a role that has a remarkable lineage — from the historic giants of William Halliwell, Harry Mortimer and Stanley Boddington to the latter day incumbents such as Geoffrey Brand, Bramwell Tovey and John Berryman.

He takes over from Adam Cooke who announced his departure in September after five successful years at the helm to take on a new career move in Norway.

Hugely respected

For the past 15 years, Chris has held the principal trombone seat at the band, working under a list of outstanding conductors, and has also gained a hugely respected reputation as a conductor of the all-conquering Youth Brass 2000 Band, who has led to multiple UK and European title successes.

An artistic ambassador for Antoine Courtois Instruments he has won many individual awards, including accolades at Brass in Concert and the All England Masters.

Thrilled

Band Chairman, Dave Elliot-Smith told 4BR: "We're thrilled that Chris has accepted the role. His inspiration, motivation, drive, determination and passion for making music is welcomed and we are excited to enter a new era in our history with him at the helm."

In response Chris added: "I've been overwhelmed by the messages of congratulations from around the banding world since the news was revealed.

I consider it a great honour to be appointed to the role with a band that has such a worldwide reputation for excellence.

The names of those who have conducted this great band are legendary, and with an exciting blend of youth and experience I'm determined the name of GUS will remain at the forefront of elite banding."

I consider it a great honour to be appointed to the role with a band that has such a worldwide reputation for excellenceChris Jeans

Progress

He added: "My enthusiasm to progress and add further honours with GUS is undimmed and we are already working towards our first contesting goal together at the Butlins Mineworkers Championship in Skegness in January."

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    


Brighouse

Report & Result: 2025 British Open Championship

September 7 • A fait accompli for Brighouse & Rastrick and Prof David King as they are inspired by Shakespeare and Prokofiev to claim the happiest of Symphony Hall endings on 'Star Crossed Lovers'.


Band Supplies

Band Supplies at the British Open

September 6 • Go up and meet one of the best blokes in the banding business world and he will make sure you get all the help you need for the best deals.


4BR Review

Recap on the 4BR British Open preview

September 6 • If you missed the live broadcast British Open preview on 4BR then you can just click and enjoy it again ahead of the action at Symphony Hall.


Mead

Why not be a judge at the Open this year?

September 6 • If you are following the 'Sar Crossed Lovers' action at Symphony Hall today, let us know who you think has won.


Contest: 171st British Open

Saturday 6 September • Broad Street, Birmingham. B1 2EA


Contest: Lower Sections 1-4 National Finals

Saturday 13 September • Cheltenham Racecourse, Evesham Road, Cheltenham GL50 4SH


Contest: Lower Sections 1-4 National Finals

Sunday 14 September • Cheltenham Racecourse, Evesham Road, Cheltenham. . *Please note as of 24th August 2023 the date is provisional according to Kapitol Promotions website GL50 4SH


Petworth Town Band - Petworth Town Band at Petworth Heritage weekend

Saturday 20 September • Centre of Petworth Town GU28 OAH


Cheltenham Silver Band - Holst Birthday Concert

Saturday 20 September • All Saints Church, All Saints Road, Pittville, Cheltenham GL52 2HG


Otley Brass Association

September 7 • Front Row Cornet. -. Otley Brass Band are keen to recruit a 5th member for their front row cornets (position negotiable).. . This is an exciting opportunity to join a thriving band of 30+ players under the leadership of our newly appointed MD, Martyn Beecham


wantage silver band

September 6 • Wantage Band (Championship Section) have vacancies for a Bb BASS PLAYER and THIRD CORNET to complete their line up. Plenty of great concerts from now until Christmas with the Welsh Open, L&SC Area, British Open Grand Shield and Whit Friday in 2026.


wantage silver band

September 6 • Positions vacant: wantage silver band: Wantage Community Brass (non-competitive) are looking to recruit a new Musical Director. The group is unique in that the average age is almost certainly around 70! They rehearse on Tue from 4pm and Thu from 7pm.


Alwyn Green

LRAM, LTCL
Conductor, composer, arranger, adjudicator, teacher and soloist


               

 © 2025 4barsrest.com Ltd