*
banner

Cautious optimism for rejoicing at British Open

Organisers welcome news of stepped removal of Covid-19 restrictions — with definitive decision on Symphony Hall contest penciled in for mid-April at the earliest.

Gregson
  The event would see the delayed world premiere of Edward Gregson's work

The organisers of the 2021 British Open Championships, due to take place at Symphony Hall in Birmingham on Saturday September 11th, have welcomed the indications outlined in the various proposed 'roadmaps' for the stepped removal of Covid-19 restrictions throughout the UK over the coming months.

Following a close study of the advice that will apply to bands in England, Wales and Scotland, and taking into account appropriate European considerations, they state that they hope to be able to make a definitive decision, based on appropriate advice, regulations and guidelines as soon as is practical.

Monitor

A spokesperson told 4BR: "As stated previously, we will continue to monitor the overall position, and will inform all those involved by mid-April at the earliest. We will be working closely in consultation with Symphony Hall and with the competing bands.

We are fully aware that the ongoing Covid-19 regulations and guidelines may alter in one or all regions of the UK over the next few months, as well as Europe. These will be at the forefront of any decision that is made.

However, we remain cautiously optimistic and eager to be able to provide the brass band world with an event that will have such a positive impact — topped by the finest bands performing a wonderful, and appropriate work in Edward Gregson's 'The World Rejoicing'."

we remain cautiously optimistic and eager to be able to provide the brass band world with an event that will have such a positive impactorganisers

Composer positive

Speaking to 4BR, Edward Gregson was also encouraged by the positive outlook of the news. "Great caution must be taken of course, but I just think that it would be such a huge boost for bands to be able to look forward to a definite date in the diary, and serendipitously through the oldest and most famous brass band competition in the world.

Personally, of course, to at last hear a work I wrote over nearly three years ago would be such a fulfilling moment. I've never had to wait so long for a premiere in my life — but Covid has taught us all many things — and patience has been one of them especially in the crucial months ahead."

Tickets

It was also confirmed that tickets for the 2021 British Open will not be going on sale until the position regarding the contest scheduling is decided.

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    


Easher Austin

Triomphale world premiere at National Children's Band concert

July 31 • 14 year old Easher Austin's 'Marche Triomphale' is to be given its world premiere by the National Children's Band of Great Britain on Friday — with a few tickets left to hear it.


Newstead

Talented Blythe spirit takes principal lead at Newstead

July 31 • Noah Blythe has been appointed the new principal cornet at Newstead Brass.


Radio

Radio: Touch of Brass

July 31 • From the Underworld to Plymouth Hoe and more with Martin Upfold and Julie Hedge this weekend.


wobplay

New additions to Wobplay releases

July 30 • A premiere release from the International Staff Band is joined by classic Cory, memories of the Masters and and Edward Gregson greatest hits.


Haverhill Silver Band - A Nightingale Sang... (an evening concert)

Saturday 2 August • Foakes Hall, Dunmow CM6 1DG


The Lindley Band - Parp and a Pint

Wednesday 6 August • 14a Holly Bank Road. Lindley. Huddersfield . West Yorkshire HD3 3 JE


Haverhill Silver Band - East Anglian Beer & Cider Festival

Sunday 24 August • St Edmundsbury Cathedral, Bury St Edmunds IP33 1QX


Haverhill Silver Band - Concert in Saffron Hall

Wednesday 27 August • Saffron Hall, Audley End Road, Saffron Walden, Essex CB11 4UH


Uckfield Concert Brass - Eastbourne Bandstand 1812 Concert

Wednesday 27 August • Eastbourne Bandstand, Lower Grand Parade, Eastbourne. BN21 3AD


Otley Brass Association

July 31 • Front Row/Solo Cornet. . . An exciting opportunity has arisen for new front row/ solo cornet players to join our friendly non-contesting band. We practice every Tuesday evening 7.30-9.45pm at Otley Courthouse, Otley, Leeds, LS21 3AN


Hathersage Band

July 30 • FRONT ROW CORNET (position negotiable). Hathersage Brass Band is a thriving, non-contesting community band. We enjoy our music making, play a wide variety of music and have a good gig schedule. Are you the right person to join our happy band?


Alder Valley Brass

July 30 • We are looking for a front row cornet player to join our ambitious, busy and sociable 2nd section band (national finalists 2023). We have a good blend of concerts, engagements and contests. Rehearsals Mondays and Thursdays 8-10pm in Farnham, Surrey


Martin Heartfield

GGSM, ARCM, PGCE
Conductor, Adjudicator, Educationalist


               

 © 2025 4barsrest.com Ltd