*
banner

First chords of return in Wales?

Members of Brecon Concert Band were able to enjoy an open air rehearsal this week — but there is still no sign of concert halls reopening in Wales.

Brecon
  The members of the band observed the appropriate social distancing and health and safety guidelines

The first fledgling signs of communal music making taking the first steps of getting back to some sort of normality in Wales took place in Brecon on Monday evening (3rd August)

Members of the Brecon Town Concert Band worked alongside their local town council to enable them to hold an open air rehearsal in a car park near to the town's theatre.

Outdoor

Up to 30 people are allowed to congregate with appropriate social and physical distancing measures put in place in the open air in Wales from Monday 3rd August, with the ensemble fully observing the stated requirements "to take all reasonable measures to mitigate any risks."

Concert halls

However, according to the Welsh Government's latest Coronavirus guidelines and regulations, there is no date given for the reopening of theatres or concert halls.

In addition, people should not gather indoors with anyone who is not a member of their household (or extended household) unless they have a good reason.

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    


Sparke

British Open Countdown: T minus 9

September 3 • The countdown is underway for this year's British Open with 'Music of the Spheres' ready for lift off. But which European own-choice topping piece comes close to it in contest popularity since it was used in 2004?


Friary

New signing at Friary

September 3 • Cornish cornet player Jacob Griffiths returns to the banding fold with Friary.


BrookWright

2026 BrookWright Solo winners announced

September 3 • Mark Vause and Elijah Baker claim the main category awards with 11-year-old cornetist Bradley Mahungu capturing the Public Commendation Prize.


Music

Spheres starting to align across the UK

September 3 • Keep an eye out for a chance to hear a preview of 'Music of the Spheres' ahead of the British Open at Symphony Hall.


The Hepworth Band - Public Rehearsal ahead of the 2026 British Open

Tuesday 8 September • Ossett Town Hall, Market Place, Ossett WF5 8BE


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


Regent Hall Concerts - The Band of the Irish Guards

Thursday 1 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Yorkshire Imperial

September 3 • Yorkshire Imperial band have SECOND HORN and BBb BASS vacancies available. . At Imps we have a proud tradition, clear ambitions and a sensible, well-planned schedule. We're looking for musicians who want to make outstanding music & will enjoy the journey.


Crewe Brass

September 1 • Crewe Brass are looking for a FRONT ROW CORNET to join our highly motivated 4th section band. We are a very welcoming and sociable band, with a positive outlook and a reasonably busy calendar of engagements. Other enquiries are welcome.


Crewe Brass

September 1 • Crewe Brass are looking for a BBb BASS to join our highly motivated 4th section band. We are a very welcoming and sociable band, with a positive outlook and a reasonably busy calendar of engagements. Other enquiries are welcome.


Lt Col David Barringer MBE

BMus (Hons)
Conductor and adjudicator


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd