*
banner

Foden's warm up for Blackpool defence with Patron support

Foden's ensured that over 500 of their patron's got a sneak preview of their Area title defence preparations at a concert in their home town.

cURTIN
  Garry Curtin and Mark Wilkinson performed solos at the concert

Foden's warmed up for the defence of their North West Regional title in Blackpool on the weekend by entertaining over 500 loyal supporters at their annual Patrons Concert at Sandbach School.

Now in its 32nd year, the Patrons Society provides invaluable support to the band, helping them to maintain their position as one of the world's leading ensembles.

Preview

The packed audience were treated to a varied programme of entertainment under the baton of Michael Fowles, including solos from Mark Wilkinson and Gary Curtin.

In addition the band gave a preview performance of 'A Tale as Yet Untold' by Philip Sparke directed by Russell Gray ahead of their Winter Gardens appearance.

Now in its 32nd year, the Patrons Society provides invaluable support to the band, helping them to maintain their position as one of the world's leading ensembles4BR

Awards

The concert also saw the presentation of the band's annual awards, with Iain McKnight deservedly taking the 'Bandsperson of the Year', accolade in part due to his work coordinating the huge fund raising efforts and logistics to compete at the European Championships in Lithuania later this year.

Gary Curtin was presented with the 'Player of the Year' award in recognition of his fantastic contest and concert performances in 2019, as well as the launch of his solo CD in May.

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    


Brisbane Exclesior

Results: 2026 Yamaha Australian National Championships

April 5 • Brisbane Excelsior regains National title with Grade honours to Willoughby Band No. 2, Whitehorse Brass, Hyde Street Youth, City of Ballarat Municipal Brass, Box Hill Academy Brass and Brisbane State High School Brass.


Principals

National Youth sets out musical principals ahead of twin concerts

April 5 • The 90 young players of the National Youth Brass Band of Great Britain are being out through their paces ahead of their twin Easter Course performances.


Elgar Festival

Elgar attractions gain ticket take up

April 5 • Brass Band Willebroek, Black Dyke, Foden's, Flowers, David Childs and the RBC Brass Band are attracting the crowds for their Elgar International Festival of Brass appearances.


BBCA

Pankhurst and Wainwright works to test conductor skills

April 5 • 'Ghosts of Industry' and 'Metamorphosis on Finlandia' will test the 10 semi-finalists in the Brass Band Conductors' Association Conducting Competition in June.


Regent Hall Concerts - Queentet Brass Quintet

Tuesday 7 April • Charlton House. Charlton Road . London SE7 8RE


Regent Hall Concerts - Central Band of the Royal Air Force

Friday 1 May • Regent Hall. (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - Royal Greenwich Brass Band

Sunday 3 May • St Alfege Church. Greenwich Church Street SE10 9BJ


Regent Hall Concerts - FiveBy5 Trumpet Quintet

Tuesday 5 May • Charlton House and Gardens. Charlton Road, . London. . SE7 8RE


Regent Hall Concerts - Royal Greenwich Brass Band

Friday 8 May • Regent Hall. (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


CLEETHORPES BAND CIO

April 3 • We have vacancies for a trombone player and a bass player. Cleethorpes Band rehearse near the seafront on Thursday and Sunday evenings. Placed 3rd in the NOE 4th section. Other players are always welcome as we may be able to switch positions around


Tintwistle Band

April 2 • . Tintwistle Band are looking for a 2nd horn player to help complete the team.. We rehearse Monday and Thursday 8-10pm at our own bandroom on Old Road in Tintwistle, and perform a variety of concerts all year round.


Tintwistle Band

April 2 • Tintwistle Band are looking for an Eb bass player to help complete the team.. We rehearse Monday and Thursday 8-10pm at our own bandroom on Old Road in Tintwistle, and perform a variety of concerts all year round.


John Maines

BA (Hons)
Presenter, compere and conductor


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd