*
banner

New spirit of isolation looks for community support

A new initiative from the organiser's of BrassFest UK looks to bring players together in communal musical isolation.

BrassFest
  The new initiative hopes to bring players together

A new initiative is being launched entitled 'The Spirit of Brass — Isolation Massed Band' by the people behind the highly successful BrassFest UK.

Led by well known bandsman Rob Tompkins and with help from Pennine Music and Cory Band, it's hoped to attract players who want to be part of a team isolation video of their own.

The Spirit of Brass

Thanks to Pennine Music, the piece to be performed will be the 2017 BrassFestUK anthem composed by Gavin Somerset entitled, 'The Spirit of Brass', with a recording to practice along to courtesy of the world's number 1 ranked band.

'The Spirit of Brass' has been written at two different levels also help participants: The first is for Fourth Section standard ensembles and above, with a simplified version for players more comfortable with an easier part.

Be a part

Rob told 4BR: "I want to stretch out a hand to those that are at home and really want to be part of something like this but don't have the confidence to put their names forward and record themselves.

I'm happy to include just sound, so no video or picture will appear in the video, or to include someone playing part of the piece if they can't manage it all.

It's all about participating in whatever way you can."

I want to stretch out a hand to those that are at home and really want to be part of something like this but don't have the confidence to put their names forward and record themselvesRob Tompkins

Further information

If you want to be a part, go to: https://www.brassfestuk.com/isolation-entries and fill in the form with your details. There is also a field for you to enter a message if you wish to do so.

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    


Dutch National Championships

Countdown to Dutch National Championships

October 21 • The 2026 Dutch National Championships take place in Utrecht this weekend with 4BR covering the event at the TivoliVredenburg.


Hands up

Audition call for Scottish Youth

October 21 • Young players in Scotland are being encouraged to audition for the National Youth Brass Band of Great Britain.


The Dutch Youth Band

Dutch Youth gains national support until 2029

October 21 • The Dutch National Youth Brass Band will be supported by the NBK Foundation until 2029.


Tommy Tynan

Tynan launches online Tuba Shop

October 21 • The Black Dyke Band tuba star has launched his online store that caters for all things low brass.


Regent Hall Concerts - Welsh Guards Band Septet

Thursday 22 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - The Band of the RAF Regiment

Friday 23 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - Redbridge Brass Band

Saturday 24 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


The Hepworth Band - Aireborough Rotary Club Annual Charity Concert

Sunday 25 October • Yeadon Town Hall, High Street, Yeadon LS19 7PP


Dobcross Silver Band - Tintwistle Band

Sunday 25 October • Dobcross Band Club. Platt Lane Dobcross. Oldham OL3 5AD


Northop Silver Band

October 22 • PERCUSSION PLAYER - We are a Championship Section competing band based in North East Wales. The band are friendly and ambitious, with an active contest and concert diary.


Cambrian Brass

October 22 • We are always happy to hear from anyone interested in joining our friendly, supportive band, whether you are returning to banding, looking for a new challenge, or have moved to Aberystwyth for university.


West Yorkshire Police Band

October 22 • BBb bass and back row cornets are sought to complete our line-up. We are a well supported band with a unique calendar of events including foreign travel. We rehearse at Carr Gate nr Wakefield on Mondays and Thursdays.


Stephen Tighe

ARCM, LDBBA, (Dip)PFS.
Adjudicator / Music Director / Arranger


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd