*
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    


Marple

British Open Countdown: T minus 6

September 6 • 30 years ago there was a British Open victory that shock the banding world.


numbers

Academics look to banding to provide expert analysis

September 6 • The rather dry academic world of Research Excellence Framework analysis has looked at brass band contesting for potential insight...


Dizzy

Dizzy Brasscals set for night club launch in Manchester

September 6 • The award winning events ensemble is headlining a new night club venture close to its spiritual musical home — with plenty of bangers for people to sing-along to.


Kirsty Abbotts

Abbotts flugel role with Grimethorpe

September 5 • Kirsty Abbotts is the new flugel horn player at Grimethorpe Colliery Band.


The Hepworth Band - Public Rehearsal ahead of the 2026 British Open

Tuesday 8 September • Ossett Town Hall, Market Place, Ossett WF5 8BE


Sherborne Town Band - Free-Music in the park

Sunday 13 September • Sherborne, Dorset-Pageant Gardens DT9 3NP


Regent Hall Concerts - The Band of the Grenadier Guards

Thursday 17 September • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - The Duchess of Edinburgh String Orchestra

Friday 18 September • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - The Band of the Irish Guards

Thursday 1 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Barnsley Brass

September 6 • We are looking to recruit a Flugel Horn and Back Row Cornet players. We are based in Worsbrough Bridge by the A61 south of Barnsley. S70 5LJ. Rehearsals are Mondays / Thursdays at 8pm in our purpose-built band room..


Enderby Band

September 5 • Championship section band seeking CORNETS (positions negotiable), Eb BASS, and PERCUSSIONISTS to join our committed, hard-working and friendly team, performing a balanced diary of concerts and contests.


Harrogate Band

September 4 • The Harrogate Band are looking for a 1st Baritone and Soprano player to complete our team. Forward thinking and exciting band with a wide range of engagements and contests. Rehearsals are Wednesday 8pm in our own bandroom with great transport links.


Sandy Smith


Conductor, teacher, adjudicator and arranger


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd