*
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    


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


Duncan Wilson

Bmus(hons), LGSMD
Conductor, Adjudicator (member AoBBA)


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd