*
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    


Linz

Result: 2026 European Youth Championships Premier Section

April 26 • Premier delight for Hordaland Ungdomsbrassband as Norway reigns supreme in Linz.


Linz

Result: 2026 European Youth Championships Development Section

April 26 • Its a Norwegian one and two as the title is claimed by Smoras Skolemusikk.


Flowers

Result: 2026 European Championships Championship Section

April 25 • History is made as Flowers Band are crowned Champions of Europe on their contest debut.


Linz

Result: 2026 European Championships Challenge Section

April 25 • Brass Band Wipptal claims the honours and takes the title back to Italy.


Newstead Brass - St George's Day Celebration

Saturday 25 April • St Wilfrid's Church. Church Street, Kirkby-in-Ashfield, Nottinghamshire, NG17 8LA


Newstead Brass - St George's Day Celebration

Saturday 25 April • St Wilfrid's Church. Church Street, Kirkby-in-Ashfield, Nottinghamshire, NG17 8LA


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


CLEETHORPES BAND CIO

April 23 • Cleethorpes Band are seeking a Musical Director. The band rehearse on Thursday and Sunday evenings. Placed 3rd in the North of England 4th section contest. We are a registered charity and have a thriving training band.


Leicestershire Co-op Band

April 23 • SOLO HORN Vacancy. The Leicestershire Co-op Band (2nd Section National Finalists & 1st Section from 2027) have a vacancy for Solo Horn. We are an ambitious band with a healthy balance of contests and concerts, always striving for high musical standards.


City of Norwich Brass

April 23 • City of Norwich Brass are seeking a talented and confident solo (tutti) cornet player to join our friendly and ambitious band. We offer a welcoming environment with a diverse and challenging musical repertoire playing at regular concerts and contests


Stuart Black

BA (Hons) Music
Conductor, Teacher, Flugel soloist


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd