*
banner

Death of Pete Tanner

The death has been announced of Peter Tanner, the much respected stalwart member of the Downton Band.

Downton
  The death has been announced of Downton Band stalwart Peter Tanner

The Downton Band has announced the death of stalwart member Pete Tanner, aged 69.

Pete, who lived with his wife Liz in Woodfalls was a popular character in the local area and also well-known across the South West brass band world.

Community roles

In his time he was a plumber, postman, an avid collector of paintings and historical artefacts, a keen follower of cricket (particularly his son Ian's exploits) and he even a football manager!

However, it was for his passionate involvement in brass banding that he was particularly well known — especially as he grew up close to the Downton bandroom where he learnt to play horn.

Pete was to become a lifelong member of Downton Band; becoming the longest serving member and taking great pride in their 150 year-old history.

In his time he played at several National Finals, took part in many trips including cultural exchanges, played at the Whit Friday marches and made an appearance in a Sky Arts documentary about brass bands.

He will be much missed, not only by family and friends but by the brass band movement across the UKDownton Band

Half century

In 2017 he proudly received a 50 Year Long Service Award by the Wessex Brass Band Association.

A band spokesperson told 4BR: "Alongside playing Pete was also a tireless worker for the band. He was the longest serving member of the committee and alongside his wife Liz, was always first at rehearsals to help set up and last to come away from concerts after packing everything down.

Pete is survived by his wife Liz and his four children Ian, Tom, Carrie and Ewan. He will be much missed, not only by family and friends but by the brass band movement across the UK."

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    


Band Supplies

Band Supplies at the British Open

September 6 • Go up and meet one of the best blokes in the banding business world and he will make sure you get all the help you need for the best deals.


4BR Review

Recap on the 4BR British Open preview

September 6 • If you missed the live broadcast British Open preview on 4BR then you can just click and enjoy it again ahead of the action at Symphony Hall.


Mead

Why not be a judge at the Open this year?

September 6 • If you are following the 'Sar Crossed Lovers' action at Symphony Hall today, let us know who you think has won.


Sterling instruments

Sterling return at British Open Championship

September 6 • A well respected instrument brand will make a welcome return at the British Open this year.


Contest: 171st British Open

Saturday 6 September • Broad Street, Birmingham. B1 2EA


Contest: Lower Sections 1-4 National Finals

Saturday 13 September • Cheltenham Racecourse, Evesham Road, Cheltenham GL50 4SH


Contest: Lower Sections 1-4 National Finals

Sunday 14 September • Cheltenham Racecourse, Evesham Road, Cheltenham. . *Please note as of 24th August 2023 the date is provisional according to Kapitol Promotions website GL50 4SH


Petworth Town Band - Petworth Town Band at Petworth Heritage weekend

Saturday 20 September • Centre of Petworth Town GU28 OAH


Cheltenham Silver Band - Holst Birthday Concert

Saturday 20 September • All Saints Church, All Saints Road, Pittville, Cheltenham GL52 2HG


Crewe Brass

September 5 • We are looking for FLUGEL player 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.


Rushden Town Band

September 2 • 2nd Trombone position has become vacant as current holder off to University. Rehearsals Mondays and Wednesday at Rushden Hall. RTB is a friendly 1st Section band who have recently come back from their second tour abroad and also released their first CD.


Bilton Silver Rugby Band

September 2 • Are you moving to the West Midlands this autumn or possibly fancy a change of bandroom scenery? The band are looking to recruit an Eb bass and a Kit Percussionist to help us with our varied and ever expanding range of events.


David Hirst

MA, B.Ed (Hons), LTCL
Conductor, adjudicator and arranger


               

 © 2025 4barsrest.com Ltd