*
banner

Celebrating the centenary of Arthur Butterworth

With the centenary of his birth in August, we speak to David Richards about the life and works of Arthur Butterworth and how he hopes the brass banding world can help restore his music music from neglect.

Arthur
  4th August marks the centenary of the birth of composer Arthur Butterworth

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

The 4th August this year marks the 100th anniversary of the birth of Arthur Butterworth MBE — a composer who made a lasting impression on the brass band movement with his extensive output of works.

Given the sometimes uncompromising nature of his musical language, many have suffered from neglect, but with his centenary looming on the horizon moves are being made for a long overdue spotlight to be shone on them once more.

4BR Editor Iwan Fox talks to David Richards who worked closely with the composer and his family over many years.

He is spearheading efforts to get his hugely significant output not just for brass bands, but for orchestra, wind band, choral, solo instrumental and voice performed once more on a regular basis as well as being featured on radio.

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    


Yorkshire

Yorkshire's Next Generation shines on tuition day

February 24 • The next generation of Yorkshire playing talent was on show under the direction of Richard Marshall.


NYBBBelgium

Spectrum of young talent shines again in Belgium

February 24 • The National Youth Brass Band of Belgium and it even younger sibling continues to be inspired for the future.


Robin Stevens

Death of Robin Stevens

February 24 • The death has been announced of the composer Robin Stevens


podcast

Latest 4BR Review podcast

February 23 • The latest live 4BR Review podcast will be aired on Wednesday 25th February at 7.00pm — so why not bookmark it and join us with your views as we preview of the 2026 Regional Championships and more...


Regent Hall Concerts - Oompah Brass XXL

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


Regent Hall Concerts - Royal Greenwich Brass Band

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


Regent Hall Concerts - Royal Greenwich Brass Band

Sunday 1 March • St. Alfege Church. Greenwich Church Street. London SE10 9BJ


Regent Hall Concerts - London Central Fellowship Band

Saturday 7 March • Regent Hall. (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - Regent Hall Band of the Salvation Army

Tuesday 10 March • Regent Hall. (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Chinnor Silver

February 23 • Our COMMUNITY BAND are meeting on MONDAY 2nd at 11am in our bandroom.. Join us for a relaxed friendly blow with coffee and cake as an added bonus.. Playing with us wont impact your No1 band so come along for a blow.


St Albans Brass Band

February 19 • TUNED PERCUSSION PLAYER Wanted. St Albans Band. Rehearsals Wednesdays 8 to 10pm. Varied programme of concerts, gigs and civic events throughout the year. Friendly, welcoming brass band. Experienced players and returners welcome. www.stalbansband.co.uk


St Albans Brass Band

February 19 • Bb BASS PLAYER Wanted. St Albans Band. Rehearsals Wednesdays 8 to 10pm. Varied programme of concerts, gigs and civic events throughout the year. Friendly, welcoming brass band. Experienced players and returners welcome. www.stalbansband.co.uk


Sam Fisher

BA (Hons), PGCE, Dip.ABRSM
Conductor, Adjudicator (AoBBA), Composer/Arranger, Cornet & Flugelhorn Soloist


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd