*
banner

60th anniversary celebrations for Jimmie

Jimmie Charles — one of the great servants of Foden's Band, has notched up 60 years of stalwart service — with plenty more to come.

Jimmie
  Jimmie Charles has been a foundation stone of Foden's success for 60 years

Foden's Band and friends from around the banding world will be marking a special celebration today.

Jimmie Charles, a stalwart player, administrator and historian notches up a remarkable 60 years of service with the Sandbach band.

Progression

Jimmie's banding career actually started with the Aldridge Town Band in the West Midlands on third cornet, although he soon progressed to principal by the age of 14.

That progression was helped enormously by him being able to study with Bram Gay from the age of 12 at the Birmingham School of Music, where he also played trumpet in their orchestra and wind band.

His playing experience also included courses with the National Youth Brass Band of Great Britain, but found its catalyst on a visit to Birmingham Town Hall, where he attended a concert by Foden's under the baton of Rex Mortimer.

Audition

Such was the impression made that he wrote to the MD asking for an audition — and in December 1960 he left home to take a place on the solo cornet bench.

He was met off the train by Rex Mortimer, given a Besson cornet and placed in local digs in Sandbach. It was to be a link that has remained unbroken ever since.

Over the years Jimmy has helped the band in just about every way possible — both as a player and committee member.

He has also been responsible for ensuring that much of the band's priceless memorabilia has been located saved and displayed, as well as being a curator of their extensive library of music.

His work following the devastating fire that gutted the Foden's bandroom in 2016 saw composer Andy Scott dedicate a piece of music to him.

Over the years Jimmy has helped the band in just about every way possible — both as a player and committee member4BR

Landmark

Speaking about the landmark celebration for a player known throughout the banding world, principal cornet Mark Wilkinson told 4BR: "We are sure everyone with connection to Foden's Band congratulates Jimmie on this fantastic milestone.

Everyone who knows him will know of his love and passion for the band where he continues to be a fantastic servant."

He added: "Sadly, we have been unable to celebrate this achievement as a band, however, we would like to thank the North West Brass Band Association for kindly sending a 'Diamond Diploma of Honour' certificate and 'Long Service Medal' which we have presented to him this morning (Saturday 12th December). When circumstances allow, the band will arrange a relevant celebration!"

Video celebration

To mark this 60th Anniversary Foden's have produced a virtual 'Congratulations' including a number of congratulatory messages from close friends.

Band members have also sent a private video to Jimmie offering their congratulations and thanks.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UhMA7q8UChg

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    


Royal Albert Hall

Countdown previews of Symphony in Two Movements

October 5 • There will be a chance to hear how the competitors are getting on with their 'Symphony in Two Movements' preparations ahead of the Royal Albert National Final...


Foden

Foden's set for Regent Hall preview ahead of Albert Hall challenge

October 5 • Foden's Band will be joined by Mike Lovatt for their traditional Regent Hall pre-National preview next weekend.


Steph Wilshaw

Wilshaw looks to boost Audley Community

October 5 • Steph Wilshaw has been appointed the new Musical Director of Audley Community Band.


Fountain City Brass Band

Report & Result: 2025 United States Brass Invitational

October 5 • Fountain City takes the honours in Texas as a new event looks to further boost brass banding growth in the USA.


Regent Hall Concerts - Regent Hall Band of the Salvation Army

Sunday 5 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. WC1 2DJ W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - Academy Symphonic Brass

Friday 10 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. WC1 2DJ W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - Stately Brass Quintet

Friday 10 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. WC1 2DJ W1C2DJ


Contest: National Brass Band Championships of Great Britain

Saturday 11 October • The Royal Albert Hall, Kensington Gore, South Kensington, London SW7 2AP


Hathersage Band - Hathersage Village Autumn Concert

Saturday 11 October • Hathersage Methodist Church, Main Road, Hathersage S32 1BB S32 1BB


Welwyn Garden City Band

October 6 • We are a friendly & sociable Second Section Band with an exciting and varied Christmas season ahead. Due to an employment relocation, we have an immediate vacancy for a FRONT ROW CORNET player.


Tewit Silver Band

October 4 • Principal Eb Bass. Our established bass section are looking for a strong leader to elevate their performance - could that be you? We have an exciting contest schedule including the Scottish Open and and full set of new Besson basses!


Tewit Silver Band

October 4 • Principal Eb Bass. Our established bass section are looking for a strong leader to elevate their performance - could that be you? We have an exciting contest schedule including the Scottish Open and and full set of new Besson basses!


Dr Brett Baker

BSc (Hons), ARCM, PG Dip
Marketing Lead, Denis Wick & Alliance Products; Artist at Michael Rath Instruments


               

 © 2025 4barsrest.com Ltd