*
banner

Blow to Yorkshire brass fans

One of the most popular regional brass band radio shows faces an uncertain future with no plans for it to return after Coronavirus lockdown ends.

rADIO
  David Hoyle's programme has been aired over 650 times

The regional profile of brass bands in the UK suffered a major blow this week with the news that the popular 'Yorkshire Brass' radio programme hosted by David Hoyle is to end.

Yorkshire Brass has long been a regular feature on BBC local Radio Leeds, Sheffield and York, but having being temporarily taken off air after the Coronavirus pandemic made it impractical for David to produce it at the studios, it has now been confirmed that there are no immediate plans for it to return to the airwaves

Proud

Speaking about the decision David said: "I'm proud to have brought brass band music to you on the BBC since 2008 and this decision makes me feel very sad. There may be a review of this timescale, but not until autumn.

I'm not angry — the management have had to make tough decisions. I would like to point out that the regional management are supportive of Yorkshire Brass and are seemingly stuck between a rock and a hard place on this and on similar issues with other shows.

The decisions regarding schedules are blanket and made at a national level. I've broadcast over 650 shows for the BBC and for it all to end now would be very a very hard pill to swallow."

I've broadcast over 650 shows for the BBC and for it all to end now would be very a very hard pill to swallowDavid Hoyle

Not alone

David revealed that he is not alone in facing the end of his broadcast with a number of other freelance content producers seeing their contracts ending during the pandemic. However as the usual procedure to review programmes and renew contracts could not be held, the situation has arisen.

David has however been heartened by the support he has received and that the decision may well be favourably reviewed.

"I'm naturally pleased to be making short weekly appearances on BBC Radio Leeds each Sunday and this does give me hope that there is a future for Yorkshire Brass.

I appreciate all the kind words about what the show means to people and would like to thank them for the offers of a new home for the show.

To be honest though, I want to be back on local radio."

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    


4BR interview

4BR Podcast Interview: Episode 4

July 6 • 4BR Editor Iwan Fox talks to social media content creator George Reece to find out more about his cool look at why brass bands compete against each other...


Wellinton

Results: 2025 New Zealand National Championships

July 6 • Wellington Brass continues its national domination in Christchurch, with section honours going to St Kilda, Levin & Districts, New Brighton Silver an


Bandsafe

BBE BOPA renewed by Department of Education

July 5 • New safeguarding measures have come into place with BBE's BOPA renewed to give bands essential help.


Hands

Blissful appointment at Carlton Brass

July 5 • Matt Ludford-King has been appointed as the new MD at Carlton Brass as they look towards their Cheltenham National Finals appearance.


Brass Bands England - Brass Band Week

Saturday 5 July • Nation wide


Besses Boys' Band - Besses Boys' Band Summer Concert

Saturday 5 July • The Derby High School, Radcliffe Rd, Bury BL9 9NH


Putney and Wimbledon Brass Band - Summer Concert

Sunday 6 July • Community Church Putney, Werter Road. SW15 2LL


Longridge Band - Anniversary Concert

Saturday 12 July • Longridge Civic Hall, 1 Calder Avenue, Longridge, Preston PR3 3HT


Haverhill Silver Band - Proms Concert - St Ives

Saturday 12 July • Hill Rise Park, St Ives PE27 6SP


Concert Brass Poynton

July 4 • Concert Brass Poynton: No Contesting - Not a learners Band. Rehearse on Wednesday Evenings between 8.00 to 10.00pm (short comfort break). We seek a front row cornet and a Tenor Horn and A Tenor Trombone and Bass Trom too..


Ocean Brass

July 4 • Ocean Brass are inviting applications for a kit player, as we prepare for an exciting schedule of concerts and contests in the second section through 2025 and beyond! We rehearse Thursdays 8pm-10pm, Banister Park Bowls Club, Southampton, SO50 9HT


Haverhill Silver Band

July 3 • Haverhill Silver Band (championship section) seeks a PRINCIPAL CORNET. This is a superb opportunity to lead East Anglia's premier brass band on the concert and contest stage (including the Senior Cup and Whit Friday).


David A. Stowell


Conductor and composer


               

 © 2025 4barsrest.com Ltd