*
banner

Welsh youth looks to celebrate 40th birthday

It is hoped that the 40th anniversary of the formation of the National Youth Brass Band of Wales can be marked by a special concert event later this year.

Wales
  The band has inspired countless youngsters over the past 40 years...

Past alumni of the National Youth Brass Band of Wales are hoping to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the band later this year.

Formed in 1982, the inaugural course was led by founding Artistic Director Edward Gregson with the first concert taking place at Swansea's Brangwyn Hall.

The current conductor is Philip Harper with the organisation now under the auspices of the National Youth Arts Wales umbrella.

Great response

The response to the idea of a reunion concert has already seen over 70 people express an interest in taking part, with Edward Gregson also offering to conduct a band made up of past members.

A spokesperson told 4BR: "It would be a great shame that the anniversary wasn't marked.

The formation of the band was such an important step for the Welsh banding movement and it has proved to be a huge success over the years, inspiring and developing players who have gone on to enjoy a lifetime of music making at whatever level they enjoy."

The formation of the band was such an important step for the Welsh banding movement and it has proved to be a huge success over the yearsspokesperson

Memorable way

They added: "We would like to hear from as many people as possible to see if the event is feasible and can be done in a memorable way. We are also looking for a little bit of expertise to help us in promotion, so if any past alumni wants to be involved in any way please get in touch.

It would be quite brilliant to get players performing under Edward Gregson's baton once more."

Express an interest:

To express in an interest, please contact: Andrew Baker at: andrew@morthanveld.com

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 judges

Adjudication panel announced for British Open Championship

June 23 • Another move to the future for the British Open as Stephen Roberts, Anne Crookston and David Hirst are confirmed as the judges for the 171st Championship event at Symphony Hall in September.


Liberty Brass Band

Report & Result: 2025 Mountain Brass in Concert

June 23 • Liberty Brass Band wins the first Swiss 'Brass in Concert' entertainment title


Bugle

Report & Results: 2025 West of England Bandsmens Festival

June 23 • Camborne retain their Royal Trophy credentials as gain a huge haul of silverware in Bugle, as St Austell, Shrewton Silver, Illogan Sparnon Silver, St Austell Youth and Carharrack & St Day Silver also head home with titles.


Hepworth

Report & Result: 2025 Blackburn & Darwen March & Hymn Tune Contest

June 23 • Hepworth showcase their grand march and hymn tune talents as they take the honours and £1000 first prize at the popular event.


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


Petworth Town Band - Petworth Town Band at Billingshurst Carnival

Sunday 29 June • Carnival through Billingshurst and concert at Recreation Ground RH14 9SX


Simon Langton Brass - Deal Memorial Bandstand

Sunday 29 June • The Strand, Walmer, Deal CT14 7DY CT14 7DY


Alder Valley Brass

June 26 • We are looking for BBb bass and soprano cornet players to join our ambitious, busy and sociable 2nd section band (national finalists 2023) with a good blend of concerts, engagements and contests. Rehearsals Mondays and Thursdays 8-10pm in Farnham, Surrey.


Bilton Silver Rugby Band

June 25 • With a varied upcoming programme of events and following on from our successful "Musicals" concert and first ever trip to Saddleworth for Whit Friday, the band requires an Eb Bass player to join our group.


Alder Valley Brass

June 24 • As a result of a relocation we seek a Musical Director. We are an ambitious, busy and sociable 2nd section band (L&SC, National finalists 2023) with a blend of engagements, concerts and contests. We rehearse 8-10pm on Mondays and Thursdays in Farnham


James Garlick

BMus (Hons), QTS
Conductor, Band Trainer, Adjudicator, Tutor


               

 © 2025 4barsrest.com Ltd