*
banner

Foden's offer free Winter Training Day

There is a fantastic free Winter Training Day to be part of thanks to Foden's Band — but you need to be quick to sign up.

Fodens
  The Foden's Winter Course is free

Following the recent news that Foden's has been successful in an application to Arts Council England for a three year programme of events, the Sandbach band have moved swiftly to announce details of their free 'Winter Training Day'

Zoom platform

It will be held via the Zoom media platform on the 19th December and will include interactive masterclasses led by Michael Fowles, Russell Gray, Mark Wilkinson, Jonathan Bates, Gary Curtin, Melanie Whyle, Mark Landon, John Barber and Richard Poole.

The event will cover a wide range of activities from all aspects of playing — including improvisation, composition, conducting and general practice and performance techniques.

Support

Talking to 4BR about the initiative Mark Wilkinson said: "We would like to thank Arts Council England for making this event possible. Due to their support the event is free and players of all ages and abilities are invited to apply for a day of interactive learning from leading performers and educators.

A diverse range of subjects will be covered to hopefully improve and motivate players during what are still difficult times."

A diverse range of subjects will be covered to hopefully improve and motivate players during what are still difficult timesFoden's Band

Apply

Further details can be obtained via the Foden's band Facebook page and website.

With the event being held online, to ensure the day runs smoothly places will be limited to the first 50 applications.

Applications can be made by completing the google form at the following link — https://forms.gle/aZngXAERF2C7uJxw8

Closing date

The closing date for entries is Wednesday 16th December at 9.00pm. Following this deadline, all successful applicants will be sent an email confirming their place and an information pack containing materials for the day and zoom codes for the course.

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    


British Open

High demand for premium tickets for British Open

June 5 • Premium tickets for the British Open are starting to become increasingly limited — so don't miss out.


Chav Brass

Chav Brass set for serious fun at Whit Friday

June 5 • The scallywags of the Whit Friday circuit will be performing with serious ambition this year as they seek to inspire the next generation with a mix of DJ Sammy and Eric Ball...


Whit Friday

2025 Tameside Whit Friday details confirmed

June 4 • From start times to prize money, contact details and essential information — the details of the Tameside Whit Friday contests have been announced.


EverReady

Enjoy Spring Festival highlights

June 4 • The British Open has produced a special YouTube feature capturing the highlights of the 2025 Spring Festival in Blackpool.


Contest: Whit Friday March Contests

Friday 13 June • Saddleworth & Tameside OL3


Hebden Bridge Brass Band - The 13th annual Hebden Bridge March Contest

Sunday 15 June • St George's Square, Hebden Bridge HX7 8ET


The Portsmouth Grammar School - Concert by The Black Dyke Band

Saturday 28 June • St Marys Church, Fratton, Portsmouth PO15PA PO15PA


Petworth Town Band - Fete in the Park with Petworth Town Band

Saturday 28 June • Grounds of Petworth Park GU28 9LR


Petworth Town Band - Farnham Brass Band and Petworth Town Band

Saturday 28 June • Farnham Carnival


HYDE BAND

June 5 • WE CURRENTLY HAVE PLAYER VACANCIES FOR BB BASS, BARITONE & EUPHONIUM. Join our friendly 1st Section Band in the New forest, working with our Musical Director: Ben Halstead on a varied programme of concerts and contests. Rehearsals Mon & Thurs 8-10


Besses Boys' Band

June 4 • Besses Boys' Band (1st Section 2026) are looking for SOLO TROMBONE. Rehearsals Monday & Friday 7:30pm-9:30pm at Lady Wilton Hall, Manchester - Good links to M60 ring road and city centre. Fun band with good concert and social balance


Besses Boys' Band

June 4 • Besses Boys' Band (1st Section 2026) are looking for CORNET players (position negotiable). Rehearse Monday & Friday 7:30pm-9:30pm at Lady Wilton Hall, Manchester - Good links to M60 ring road and city centre. Fun band with good concert and social balance


Mark Wilkinson


Cornet Soloist, Teacher, Adjudicator, Conductor


               

 © 2025 4barsrest.com Ltd