*
banner

Ebbw Valley add Sykes to Cheltenham line-up

The experienced Stephen Sykes has joined Ebbw Valley Brass as they prepare for their Cheltenham National Final appearance.

Stephen Sykes
  Stephen Sykes returns to south Wales banding with Ebbw Valley

Ebbw Valley Brass has announced the signing of Stephen Sykes on solo trombone as they prepare for their forthcoming appearance at the First Section National Finals in Cheltenham.

The former BBC Radio 2 Young Brass soloist and Don Lusher Trombone competition winner has returned to Welsh banding after previously enjoying successful spells with Cory, Tongwynlais and Tredegar, where he won the 'Best Instrumentalist' award at the 2010 British Open.

He has also enjoyed an extensive freelance career, including tenures at Fairey and Black Dyke and having played with many of the UK's professional orchestras.

Delighted

Speaking about the appointment, Ebbw Valley Brass MD, Gareth Ritter said: "We are delighted that Stephen accepted our invitation. He is a performer with incredible musicality and professionalism and gives us a huge boost ahead of our Cheltenham appearance.

He is a great soloist and leader of the section and has also joined our brand-new venture, EV10 — our new ten-piece ensemble."

Looking forward

In response, Stephen told 4BR: "Ebbw Valley have been extremely welcoming and I'm looking forward to being involved in the Welsh banding scene again. It's also great to be back playing in a section with my great friend Mark Winstone on bass trombone."

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    


Cory

Last chord for Cory legends

June 30 • The final notes of a decade of unprecedented success have been delivered by Glyn and Helen Williams at Cory Band.


Hepworth

Report & Result: Red Admiral March & Hymn Tune Contest

June 30 • The wizards of Hepworth pick up yet another march and hymn tune victory as they take the inaugural Red Admiral honours.


Crofton

Result: Wetherby Drovers March & Hymn Tune Contest

June 30 • Crofton Silver drive home with the top prize at Wetherby.


Mnozil

Mnozil Brass booked for Symphony Hall in 2027

June 30 • After their memorable performance in Birmingham on the weekend, over 650 tickets have already been snapped up for their 2027 return.


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


Linthwaite Band

July 1 • We are a friendly 4th section contesting band with various engagements throughout the year, and currently have a vacancy for a cornet player (position negotiable) and are keen to fill the position. Please see contact details below.


Newport Borough Brass Band

July 1 • We are inviting applications for the position of Principal Cornet. . Would you like to be a part of the process to lead & shape the future of the band? Newport Borough Brass Band are looking for a dynamic Principal Cornet player to lead the team.


Newport Borough Brass Band

July 1 • We are inviting applications for the position of Musical Director.. The band are looking for a positive and dynamic leader who can further develop our players skills & aid us in our aspirations of reaching the 1st section.


Sam Fisher

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


               

 © 2025 4barsrest.com Ltd