*
banner

International line-up enjoys Swansea sunshine

The delegates on the International Brass Band Summer School have been enjoying themselves in Swansea — with a free showcase concert on Friday to round things off.

ibbss
  Over 150 delegates are enjoying the music making in Swansea

Over 150 delegates from 10 different countries from the world have made their way to Swansea to enjoy being part of the annual International Brass Band Summer School led by Black Dyke Director of Music, Prof Nicholas Childs.

Free concert

It's the 29th time that the course has been held and will culminate in a free concert to be held at Swansea University, Singleton Campus on Friday evening at 7.00pm.

The players have already been working hard on the repertoire to be showcased — with works from Gilbert Vinter to Paul Lovatt-Cooper being featured by the Boosey & Hawkes and Cardinal Bands.

A world class team of tutors has already ensured that the players gain extra musical attention, with the concert featuring solo spots from Richard Marshall and Owen Farr.

As has become a tradition the massed bands items are sure to raise the roof with the march 'Blaze Away', Alan Fernie's arrangement of 'Sosban Fach' and the brilliant 'Toccata' from 'Suite Gothique'.

Welcome

Speaking to 4BR, Prof Childs said: "It's already been a memorable few days here in Swansea — and it's wonderful to welcome back so many regulars as well as new faces.

The course has gained a worldwide profile, but it is always the warm welcome and the combination of fun and hard work that appeals to everyone.

That's down to the support we get from the likes of principal partner Geneva Group as well as World of Brass, Rath Trombones, Band Supplies, Sterling, Kapitol Promotions, Brass Band World, SHB Hire, Prima Vista and GK Design."

I hope to welcome as many people as possible to the concert — and I can promise they will be in for a treat, whilst the players will also be looking forward to the end of course party afterwards!Prof Nicholas Childs

Treat

He added: "The standard of playing grows each year as well, so we are testing the players this year more than ever before.

I hope to welcome as many people as possible to the concert — and I can promise they will be in for a treat, whilst the players will also be looking forward to the end of course party afterwards!"

Free Concert:

Friday 2nd August (7.00pm)
Swansea University
Singleton Campus
Fulton House 1st Floor,
SA2 8PP

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    


Blackpool

Results: 2026 North West Regional Championship

March 1 • There have been wins for so far today for Haydock and Allerton with more to come


rooms4groups

rooms4gropups ready for Blackpool qualifiers

February 28 • The specialist hotel booking company will be on hand first thing on Monday morning to take the pressure of York and London qualifiers.


Blackpool

York and London on the horizon for North West Area contenders

February 28 • The 2026 Regional Championships get underway in Blackpool on Sunday with 75 taking to the stage at the Winter Gardens but with qualification sights on York and London.


Elgar International Festival

Royal Birmingham Conservatoire set to welcome Elgar International Festival of Brass

February 28 • Brass Band Willebroek, Black Dyke Band, Flowers, Foden's and David Childs headline the musical attractions for a day of the very best brass band music making in June.


Regent Hall Concerts - Royal Greenwich Brass Band

Friday 27 February • Regent Hall. (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - Oompah Brass XXL

Friday 27 February • Regent Hall. (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - Royal Greenwich Brass Band

Sunday 1 March • St. Alfege Church. Greenwich Church Street. London SE10 9BJ


Regent Hall Concerts - London Central Fellowship Band

Saturday 7 March • Regent Hall. (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - Regent Hall Band of the Salvation Army

Tuesday 10 March • Regent Hall. (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


West Wycombe Brass Band

March 1 • West Wycombe Brass Band are looking for Horn players, any position. Rehearsals Wednesday 7.45-9.45pm in own band hall. Give us a call or email.


Croy Silver Band

March 1 • Croy Silver Band currently has contest vacancies on Cornet and Percussion, but is always happy to accommodate enthusiastic new players in any section of the band.


Harlow Brass Band

February 27 • We are a friendly, non-contesting band who have the following vacancies:. Trombones, 2nd Horn, Back Row Cornets, Percussion. . We rehearse every Thursday in Harlow, 8-10pm and play at local events throughout the year.


David A. Stowell


Conductor and composer


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd