*
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    


Lawson

Lawson treasures Shepherd award

October 7 • Cory principal cornet player Kyle Lawson has spoken of his pride in being the first recipient of the James Shepherd Memorial Award at this year's National Final.


Thornton

Albert Hall awards for Thornton and Raisbeck

October 7 • Dr David Thornton and Ian Raisbeck were presented with their Iles and Mortimer Medals on stage at the National Final.


4br

4BR Royal Albert Hall podcast

October 7 • Join Iwan and Chris as they look back at how the 2026 National Championship title was won and lost at the Royal Albert Hall.


Menai Bridge

Green credentials rewarded for Menai Bridge

October 7 • Menai Bridge Band Porthaethwy has won Making Music's 'Green Award'.


Regent Hall Concerts - Parlour Brass

Friday 9 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - Chiswick Jazz Orchestra

Friday 9 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - Regent Brass

Saturday 10 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Hathersage Band - Hathersage Village Autumn Concert

Saturday 10 October • Hathersage Methodist Church, Main Road, Hathersage S32 1BB


Garforth Brass - Annual Chairman's Charity Concert

Saturday 10 October • Miners Welfare Hall. 56 Main Street. Garforth . Leeds. LS25 1AA LS25 1AA


Pilling Jubilee Silver Band

October 7 • Pilling Band (ambitious 3rd Section Band North West) are seeking a few final players to complete their team under new MD Mark Vause. We are looking for 2 good front row cornet players, baritone, Eb/Bb bass and tuned percussion.


Barnsley Brass

October 7 • 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.


Rushden Town Band

October 6 • Bb bass - Following the relocation of our previous player, a Bb bass position has become available.


John Ward


Conductor, Adjudicator


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd