*
banner

Crowther takes last playing bow with Grimethorpe

The remarkable Shaun Crowther has retired as solo Eb tuba at Grimethorpe Colliery Band

Grimetjhorep
  Shaun has been a member of Grimethorpe Band for 17 years

Grimethorpe Colliery Band has announced that their celebrated Eb tuba player Shaun Crowther has retired from playing with the Yorkshire ensemble.

A spokesperson said: "Grimethorpe Colliery Band is sad to be saying goodbye to Shaun after almost 17 years of loyal and dedicated service.

An exemplary bandsman, superlative section leader, soloist and character of legendary status(!), Shaun will be sorely missed by everyone associated with the band."

Finest

Long regarded as one of the finest Eb tuba players in the British brass banding movement, during his tenure with Grimethorpe (who he joined following 25 years at Fairey Band) he became one of the most recognisable personalities in top flight banding, with his playing (as well as his dry humour) becoming an integral part of Grimethorpe's success on the contest and concert stage.

He was part of the band that won six Brass in Concert titles, a brace of National Championships in 2006 and 2007, the British Open in 2015, two Yorkshire Area titles, two English National crowns, and a National Mineworkers Championship.

Stuff of legend

In addition, his performances in Grimethorpe concert and entertainment contest programmes became the stuff of legend — although his deadpan humour and impeccable comic timing never totally submerged the outstanding musical abilities that accompanied it.

The spokesperson added: "In addition to Shaun's work with the senior band his commitment to assisting in the development of the Grimethorpe Youth band over recent years has been outstanding.

his performances in Grimerthorpe concert and entertainment contest programmes became the stuff of legend — although his deadpan humour and impeccable comic timing never totally submerged the outstanding musical abilities that accompanied it4BR

Future

Given Shaun's ongoing professional commitment to the education of young brass players we look forward to continuing our relationship with him in this area in the future".

It is understood that an announcement regarding his replacement will be made shortly.

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    


British Open judges

Adjudication panel announced for British Open Championship

June 23 • Another move to the future for the British Open as Stephen Roberts, Anne Crookston and David Hirst are confirmed as the judges for the 171st Championship event at Symphony Hall in September.


Liberty Brass Band

Report & Result: 2025 Mountain Brass in Concert

June 23 • Liberty Brass Band wins the first Swiss 'Brass in Concert' entertainment title


Bugle

Report & Results: 2025 West of England Bandsmens Festival

June 23 • Camborne retain their Royal Trophy credentials as gain a huge haul of silverware in Bugle, as St Austell, Shrewton Silver, Illogan Sparnon Silver, St Austell Youth and Carharrack & St Day Silver also head home with titles.


Hepworth

Report & Result: 2025 Blackburn & Darwen March & Hymn Tune Contest

June 23 • Hepworth showcase their grand march and hymn tune talents as they take the honours and £1000 first prize at the popular event.


The Portsmouth Grammar School - Concert by The Black Dyke Band

Saturday 28 June • St Marys Church, Fratton, Portsmouth PO15PA PO15PA


Petworth Town Band - Fete in the Park with Petworth Town Band

Saturday 28 June • Grounds of Petworth Park GU28 9LR


Petworth Town Band - Farnham Brass Band and Petworth Town Band

Saturday 28 June • Farnham Carnival


Petworth Town Band - Petworth Town Band at Billingshurst Carnival

Sunday 29 June • Carnival through Billingshurst and concert at Recreation Ground RH14 9SX


Simon Langton Brass - Deal Memorial Bandstand

Sunday 29 June • The Strand, Walmer, Deal CT14 7DY CT14 7DY


Alder Valley Brass

June 26 • We are looking for BBb bass and soprano cornet players to join our ambitious, busy and sociable 2nd section band (national finalists 2023) with a good blend of concerts, engagements and contests. Rehearsals Mondays and Thursdays 8-10pm in Farnham, Surrey.


Bilton Silver Rugby Band

June 25 • With a varied upcoming programme of events and following on from our successful "Musicals" concert and first ever trip to Saddleworth for Whit Friday, the band requires an Eb Bass player to join our group.


Alder Valley Brass

June 24 • As a result of a relocation we seek a Musical Director. We are an ambitious, busy and sociable 2nd section band (L&SC, National finalists 2023) with a blend of engagements, concerts and contests. We rehearse 8-10pm on Mondays and Thursdays in Farnham


Alan Duguid

BA (Hons), PGDipMus, PGCE
Conductor, Composer, Adjudicator (ABBA)


               

 © 2025 4barsrest.com Ltd