*
banner

Interview with Russell Gray

We catch up with the guest conductor of this year's National Childrens Band of Great Britain to talk about the current course, the music to be performed — and just how brilliantly busy things are each day...

National Childrens Band
  Russell Gray and Karianne Flatene Nilssen with principal players of the band

Can't see the audio player below? Visit soundcloud.com/4barsrest

4BR is joined by Russell Gray — guest conductor of the National Childrens Band of Great Britain.

He is leading the band on their Summer Course in Taunton — with a packed schedule of rehearsals and activities for 60 talented youngsters who have come from Cornwall to the North East, West Wales to Kent — all full to the brim with energy and eager to enjoy themselves and the experience.

Concert

The end of course concert takes place at the famous Wells Cathedral on Friday 29th July at 2.00pm.

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    


Fodens

RNCM International Brass Band Festival concerts on wobplay

February 3 • Foden's opening concert of a memorable weekend in Manchester can now be enjoyed on the Wobplay.com media platform — with others to follow.


Eiamjer

Major financial boost to help Eikanger ambitions

February 3 • A substantial three year grant will help support the Siddis champion with its educational, music outreach programmes and ongoing running costs.


Jimmy Leggat

Cross border accolades for Leggat

February 3 • The popular KNDS Fairey bandsman Jimmy Leggat takes a final official bow on a very special weekend of musical celebration with friends.


New Zealand

New Zealand National bands face financial challenges

February 2 • BBNZ President says its National Secondary Schools Band, National Youth Band, and National Band of New Zealand are in need of financial support after grant bids fail.


Dobcross Silver Band - Whitburn Band

Sunday 1 February • c/o Dobcross Band Club. Platt Lane. Dobcross Saddleworth OL3 5AD


Contest: Norwegian National Brass Band Championships

Friday 6 February • Grieghallen, Bergen, N-5015 N-5015


Contest: Norwegian National Brass Band Championships

Saturday 7 February • Grieghallen, Bergen, N-5015 N-5015


Regent Hall Concerts - Royal Greenwich Brass Band

Friday 27 February • Regent Hall. (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - Oompah Brass XXL

Friday 27 February • Regent Hall. (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


West Wycombe Brass Band

February 1 • West Wycombe Brass Band are looking for Flugel and Horn players, any position. Rehearsals Wednesday 7.45-9.45pm in own band hall. Give us a call, or email.


Croy Silver Band

February 1 • Croy Silver Band currently has contest vacancies on Cornet and Percussion, but is always happy to accommodate enthusiastic new players in any section of the band.


Tintwistle Band

January 29 • We have a vacancy for a soprano cornet player, ideally able to join us long-term, but we are also looking to fill this position to compete in the 2nd section Midlands area contest in March 2026.. We enjoy all year round concerts, contests,and social events


Alex McGee

MA BMus PGCE
Conductor & Composer


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd