*
banner

4BR Interview with Philip Harper

In a new series of major interviews with leading conductors, players and personalities around the banding world, 4BR Editor Iwan Fox catches up with Cory MD, Philip Harper...

Harper
  Philip Harper has been leading the way in innovation to reach out to new audiences

4BR catches up with Cory MD Philip Harper to find out more about how his band has responded to the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic and what he thinks the future holds...

The band has led the way with its social media sensation 'Chitty Chitty Bang Bang', which was picked up by national television, and which has inspired other bands to undertake their own social media performances.

They have followed it with 'Don't Stop Me Now', whilst Philip also been leading Brass Band England's 'Artistic Development' programme which has inspired bands around the country to look at their concert programming outlook.

Meanwhile, Cory has also just released its acclaimed 'Jungle Book' winning set from Brass in Concert last year and which can be purchased at:

https://coryband.com/shop/

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    


Arsenal and Brighouse

British Open Countdown: T minus 8

September 4 • What's the link between the Premier League champions Arsenal and British Open champion Brighouse & Rastrick?


Making Music

New CEO at Making Music

September 3 • Making Music appoints Ben Saffell as its new Chief Executive Officer.


Sparke

British Open Countdown: T minus 9

September 3 • The countdown is underway for this year's British Open with 'Music of the Spheres' ready for lift off. But which European own-choice topping piece comes close to it in contest popularity since it was used in 2004?


Friary

New signing at Friary

September 3 • Cornish cornet player Jacob Griffiths returns to the banding fold with Friary.


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


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.


Yorkshire Imperial

September 3 • Yorkshire Imperial band have SECOND HORN and BBb BASS vacancies available. . At Imps we have a proud tradition, clear ambitions and a sensible, well-planned schedule. We're looking for musicians who want to make outstanding music & will enjoy the journey.


Crewe Brass

September 1 • Crewe Brass are looking for a FRONT ROW CORNET to join our highly motivated 4th section band. We are a very welcoming and sociable band, with a positive outlook and a reasonably busy calendar of engagements. Other enquiries are welcome.


Craig Roberts

BA (Hons), MA
Conductor / Adjudicator


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd