*
banner

Sense of optimism in Holmestrand

There is a real sense of musical optimism in parts of Norway as the COVID-19 restrictions start to be eased.

Holmestrand
  The Holmestrand Band made sure social distancing was adhered to...

Holmestrand Brass from Norway has made sure they didn't miss out on the fun of the Eurovision Song Contest this year by making their own self isolation version of the hit 'Optimist' as a tribute to its composer, artist and comedian Jahn Teigen who sadly passed away in February.

Safe rehearsal activity

Holmestrand Brass competed in the Fifth Section of the Norwegian National Championships in 2019, coming seventh and then fourth in 2020 under the baton of MD, Arild Ovrum, and with the recently partial relaxation of self-isolation and social distancing rules in the country were able to undertake some safe rehearsal activity.

The result was their performance of 'Optimism' — an emotion that all the members are now feeling that banding may slowly but surely return back to normality in the country over time.

Wanted to be a part

Spokesperson and EB tuba player, Per Arne Saether told 4BR: "We have noticed the wonderful video contributions given by bands from all over the world that appear on 4BR and we wanted to be a part.

We decided on 'Optimism' as it feels right at this present time and even added some vocals. We were fortunate that the Coronavirus restrictions have been eased a little before our Constitution Day, 17th of May, so that we could have some practice.

And to give our audience some traditional march playing for our National Day we recorded a piece outside also."

We have noticed the wonderful video contributions given by bands from all over the world that appear on 4BR and we wanted to be a partSpokesperson and EB tuba player, Per Arne Saether

To enjoy

To enjoy the 'Optimism' video, go to: https://www.facebook.com/HUK1921/videos/367982984089020/

To enjoy the march performance go to:
https://www.facebook.com/HUK1921/videos/235892991172914/

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    


nybbgb

Broadcast repeats of NYBBGB Summer Concerts

August 29 • You will be able to enjoy the performances of both the National Youth Brass Band of Great Britain Childrens Band and the senior National Youth Brass Band of Great Britain on YouTube next month.


Welsh Open

Welsh Open set for live-stream broadcast

August 29 • The 2027 Welsh Open Championship will be broadcast around the globe.


Perth Concert Hall

Entries open for Scottish Youth Championships

August 29 • Bands and ensembles can now get their entries in for the Scottish Youth Championships in Perth.


Cory

Cory adds to Prestige

August 29 • The Welsh champion will challenge for major honours with new Prestige cornet help as partnership with Besson is extended.


Regent Hall Concerts - Cross Bones Trombone Quintet

Friday 21 August • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Sherborne Town Band - Free-Music in the park

Sunday 23 August • Sherborne, Dorset-Pageant Gardens DT9 3NP


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


Waltham St. Lawrence Silver Band

August 29 • Our inclusive non-contesting community band, based near Maidenhead, Bracknell and Reading, has vacancies for: . . Solo Cornet. Soprano Cornet. 2/3 Cornet. .


Waltham St. Lawrence Silver Band

August 29 • Our welcoming non-contesting community band, based near Maidenhead, Bracknell and Reading, has openings for: . Percussion, kit and tuned: a lovely pair of timps awaits you!


Waltham St. Lawrence Silver Band

August 29 • Our non-contesting community band, based near Maidenhead, Bracknell and Reading, seeks:. . 1st Horn . 2nd Baritone . .


Alan Duguid

BA (Hons), PGDipMus, PGCE
Conductor, Composer, Adjudicator (ABBA)


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd