*
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    


iNSTRUMENTS

Trump tariffs set to raise instrument prices in USA

August 13 • A new tariff proposal on imports, parts and accessories on brass and wind musical instruments draws criticism about national security issues.


willebroek

Willebroek's sixth sense pays off with Band Academy

August 13 • Over 60 young players enjoyed six days of Belgian music making on their sixth Academy course.


Harper

Harper enjoys Cory reconnection in Japan

August 13 • Philip Harper has made a Cory link in Japan to help inspire musicians on the Ageo Band Camp in Saitama.


Bruce Broughton

BrookWright Music: 11 March 1917 (Bruce Broughton)

August 13 • A moving euphonium solo from the pen of the critically acclaimed American composer Bruce Broughton.


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


Brunel Brass Organisation

August 13 • Brunel Brass is looking for a BACK ROW CORNET to complete the band. Challenging for promotion to the Championship Section in 2027 and achieving our highest ever result at the British Open Senior Trophy in 2026, it's an exciting time to join the band!


Chinnor Silver

August 12 • Our COMMUNITY BAND meets again on MONDAY (17th) in our bandroom at 11am. We welcome players of all abilities who want a friendly relaxed rehearsal with tea and cake.. Playing with us doesn’t affect your own band it’s just an extra blow.


Chinnor Silver

August 11 • OurCOMMU ITY BAND meets again on Monday 17th at 11am in our .bandroom.. Why not join us for a relaxed friendly rehearsal where all abilities are welcome.. There ‘s tea and cake and. It’s all free.. So join us this Monday..


Dave Collins

BA (Hons) (Dunelm) I, FSCO
Composer and Arranger


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd