*
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    


nybbs

Scottish Youth start Easter course

April 8 • Scottish players get ready for music making and fun on their annual Easter Course.


Pemeuph

Euph signing for Pemberton for Grand Shield challenge

April 8 • Louis Leung takes the solo euphonium role at Pemberton Old Wigan DW Band as they look towards Grand Shield challenge in Birmingham.


BrookWright

BrookWright Music: Drink to me only (Trad arr. Bowen)

April 8 • An evocative setting for the flugel horn offers a lyrical interlude to any concert programme.


dODWORTH

Dodworth looks to the future with leadership

April 8 • A new conducting leadership and long term investment in the next generation underpins Dodworth's musical vision.


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


Regent Hall Concerts - Royal Greenwich Brass Band

Friday 8 May • Regent Hall. (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Regent Brass - Woodbridge Excelsior Band and Russell Gray

Saturday 9 May • The Salvation Army (Regent Hall), Oxford Street, London W1C 2DJ


Harrogate Band

April 8 • We are looking for a Solo Cornet and Back Row Cornet to complete our team. . Interesting mix of engagements and contests. . Rehearsals Wednesday 8pm at our own bandroom located next to Hornbeam Park train station. Great transport links


Glossop Old Band

April 8 • Our friendly second section band are looking for a BB bass player to join us for contests, concerts and exciting new projects. Glossop Old Band is situated between Manchester and Sheffield and rich in history.


Wardle Anderson Brass Band

April 8 • Wardle Anderson Brass are an ambitious, forward-thinking Championship Section band on the up, looking to strengthen the team. Vacancies: Solo Trombone, Eb Bass & Front Row Cornet. Strong recent Area result under new MD Jamie Cooper.


Derek Renshaw

ABBA Member
Conductor, Band Trainer and Adjudicator.


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd