*
banner

Wilkinson takes youth lead in Sweden

Conductor Lewis Wilkinson has been enjoying working with Solna Brass ahead of their 'Salute to Youth' appearance at the Swedish National Championships.

Wilkinson
  Lewis Wilkinson worked with Solna Brass Band over an enjoyable weekend.

Following his move to south Wales to study for a Masters Degree in conducting at the Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama under the guidance of Dr Robert Childs, Lewis Wilkinson has found himself in demand.

Not only has been appointed Resident Conductor at Filton Concert Brass and Musical Director at Parc & Dare, he has just returned from a trip to Sweden where he has been working with Solna Brass as they prepare for their National Championships next month.

Preparations

Solna is looking to regain the title they last won in 2016 and had planned a long rehearsal weekend as part of their preparations.

Band Chairman Håkan Wikenstål told 4BR that they are always keen to work with rising stars who can offer a fresh perspective on their playing, and Lewis came to them with impressive recommendations.

"It is an approach that we like to use as it brings a different musical view to our rehearsals and work. Lewis is highly regarded and in working with someone such as Dr Robert Childs in Cardiff we were delighted when he accepted our invitation.

Klara Blomgren, who is studying flugel horn at the RWCMD and has played with both Filton and Tredegar also recommended Lewis after attending rehearsals under him. She was right — and Lewis worked so well with us. We do hope he will return again to us."

Bonus

Lewis flew in and worked from Thursday evening to Sunday with the band on 'Salute to Youth' by Gilbert Vinter.

He told 4BR: "I was thrilled to be invited. I really love 'Salute to Youth' so it was a bonus that the band were working on it in preparation for the National Championship.

I didn't know too much about the history of the band before I went, but now I do, and I'm sure they have a fantastic future too — hopefully starting at those National Championships."

I had a wonderful time with wonderful people who made me feel at home from the first note and it was good to meet Lars Lerne, the founder of the band who has such passion for brass bandsLewis Wilkinson.

New fan

He added: "I had a wonderful time with wonderful people who made me feel at home from the first note and it was good to meet Lars Lerne, the founder of the band who has such passion for brass bands.

I would love to return again — and they certainly have an enthusiastic new fan!"

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    


Desford Colliery

Report & Result: 2025 National Championship of Great Britain

October 12 • Desford surprise the favourites to claim a fifth National title success on a day of new memories at the Royal Albert Hall.


ISB and Fodens

Friday night Gregson spotlights

October 10 • You will be spoilt for a Gregson choice between the ISB and Ian Bousfield and Foden's and Mike Lovatt if you are in London this evening.


World of Brass

Make sure you pick up the latest releases at the Albert Hall

October 10 • The World of Brass trade stand will be packed with musical goodies — from the study score of 'Symphony in Two Movements' to the latest releases from Cory, Tredegar, Brett Baker and the ISB.


Edward Gregson

The composer's viewpoint

October 10 • Edward Gregson talks about 'Symphony in Two Movements' to Dr Robert Childs — as well as previewing it on Radio 3 before the contest day itself.


Regent Hall Concerts - Regent Hall Band of the Salvation Army

Tuesday 14 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. WC1 2DJ W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - Berkeley Brass

Friday 17 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. WC1 2DJ W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - Wigfield Brass Quintet

Friday 17 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. WC1 2DJ W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - Regent Brass

Friday 17 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. WC1 2DJ W1C2DJ


Regent Brass - Brett Baker

Friday 17 October • The Salvation Army (Regent Hall), 275 Oxford Street, London WC1 2DJ


Dobcross Silver Band

October 13 • Currently 3rd Section National Champions and subsequent promotion to SECOND SECTION in 2026, we aim to add another PERCUSSIONIST to our award winning section. Dynamic all rounder preferred. You will love it here! Great rehearsals, gigs and socials!


Dobcross Silver Band

October 13 • Current 3rd Section National Champions and pending promotion to 2ND SECTION. We require the services of a competent PRINCIPAL CORNET PLAYER. Great opportunity for someone to show their skills and leadership qualities! Enjoyable events and socials!. Contact


Stretford Band

October 11 • Stretford Band (Manchester) has a terrific new MD. Now it needs you! We need bass, trombone and percussion but will welcome anyone who wants to play popular music without the stress of competing. Any ability any age.. Hope to see you soon.


Jonathan Pippen


Conductor, Adjudicator, Trombone Soloist & Clinician


               

 © 2025 4barsrest.com Ltd