*
banner

From Small beginnings great things grow...

A life long friend has provided Tony Small BEM with a special anniversary present to help celebrate Penclawdd's 50th birthday this evening in Swansea.

Penclawdd
  The concert will feature the world premiere of a new march

Penclawdd Band will celebrate its 50th anniversary with a special concert at Swansea's Brangwyn Hall (7.00pm) this evening with a truly unique musical connection.

The event also celebrates the half century of musical inspiration that has been given to the organisation by its founding conductor Tony Small BEM, with the occasion being marked by a composition from an old school friend of his.

Small beginnings

Entitled, '…from Small beginnings great things happen' it is a what its composer, a certain Sir Karl Jenkins CBE, calls "a jocular march to reflect a truism and tribute to the dedication, time and love Tony has devoted to music, both in this area of Wales and further afield".

Karl followed Tony through five different academic institutions — from Penclawdd Infants's School all the way to the Royal Academy of Music — a bond further strengthened as both their sons went on to study at the RAM in London.

One of the most successful composers in the world, Sir Karl has also written one of the pieces of music that will be given a world premiere in London in a few weeks' time as part of the Coronation Music of The King and Queen Consort at Westminster Abbey.

World class soloists

The proud President of Penclawdd Band has welcomed guests to the event which will not only feature the present band boosted many a number of former payers, but two world class brass soloists in Gareth Small (principal trumpet of the Halle Orchestra) and Andy Davies (trumpeter at Ronnie Scott's Jazz Club) as well as renowned soprano soloist Ros Evans.

it is a what its composer, a certain Sir Karl Jenkins CBE, calls "a jocular march to reflect a truism and tribute to the dedication, time and love Tony has devoted to music, both in this area of Wales and further afield"4BR

Worthy celebration

With the Pontardulais Male voice Choir on hand and the introductions being made by broadcaster Mal Pope, it is sure to be a great evening of Welsh infused entertainment and a worthy celebration of a fine brass band and its inspirational Musical Director.

This concert will be held at Swansea's Brangwyn Hall at 7.00pm (Saturday 15th April)

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    


Lawson

Lawson treasures Shepherd award

October 7 • Cory principal cornet player Kyle Lawson has spoken of his pride in being the first recipient of the James Shepherd Memorial Award at this year's National Final.


Thornton

Albert Hall awards for Thornton and Raisbeck

October 7 • Dr David Thornton and Ian Raisbeck were presented with their Iles and Mortimer Medals on stage at the National Final.


4br

4BR Royal Albert Hall podcast

October 7 • Join Iwan and Chris as they look back at how the 2026 National Championship title was won and lost at the Royal Albert Hall.


Menai Bridge

Green credentials rewarded for Menai Bridge

October 7 • Menai Bridge Band Porthaethwy has won Making Music's 'Green Award'.


Regent Hall Concerts - Parlour Brass

Friday 9 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - Chiswick Jazz Orchestra

Friday 9 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - Regent Brass

Saturday 10 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Hathersage Band - Hathersage Village Autumn Concert

Saturday 10 October • Hathersage Methodist Church, Main Road, Hathersage S32 1BB


Garforth Brass - Annual Chairman's Charity Concert

Saturday 10 October • Miners Welfare Hall. 56 Main Street. Garforth . Leeds. LS25 1AA LS25 1AA


Epping Forest Band

October 8 • Euphonium and solo horn wanted to join our friendly sociable 2nd section band. Based in Essex with close links to the M11 and the underground central line. Instrument's provided of required


Bedford Town Band

October 8 • Bedford Town Band are looking to recruit a Solo trombone and Repiano cornet . We are playing at the Wychavon Contest in a few weeks and are looking to be in the frame at the 1st Section Regionals . Rehearsals Thursday 7.45 at Castle Newnham School.


Pilling Jubilee Silver Band

October 7 • Pilling Band (ambitious 3rd Section Band North West) are seeking a few final players to complete their team under new MD Mark Vause. We are looking for 2 good front row cornet players, baritone, Eb/Bb bass and tuned percussion.


Gary Davies


Conductor, Band Trainer, Adjudicator


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd