*
banner

German banding continues to build on sound foundations

Delegates at the 7th Jena Brass Seminar explored the benefits of 'good sound' led by international euph and tuba stars Bente Illevold and Dr. David Earll.

  Bente Illevold & David Earll (Photo Calm Vidal Photography) and Brass Band BlechKLANG worked togther

Delegates at the 7th Jena Brass Seminar recently enjoyed exploring how important a "good sound"is to their armoury of performance skills.

The event, supported by Besson and Buffet Crampon was led by Norwegian euphonium star Bente Illevold and US-American tuba virtuoso Dr. David Earll, who worked intensively with the musicians of different age groups on all aspects of control, production, style, balance and intonation.

The international duo, who perform together as 'The Northern Lights", also gave a masterclass performance supported by Brass Band BlechKLANG ahead of what was their performance at the recent German Open Championships.

Seminar weekend

The delegates certainly enjoyed the seminar weekend which saw section and full rehearsals alongside individual coaching and teaching from brass beginners to more seasoned professionals of all ages.

Reflecting on the seminar, Bente said: "There was a great passion for music on show as well as an incredible thirst for knowledge and a family atmosphere amongst the participants."

There was a great passion for music on show as well as an incredible thirst for knowledge and a family atmosphere amongst the participantsBente Illevold

Family approach

David added: "A 'family approach' was probably the best way to summarize the Jena Brass Seminar. It was a wonderful experience. Young musicians as well as experienced professionals worked together and improved their skills. This concept is what distinguishes this special masterclass event!"

The 7th Jena Brass Seminar was supported by Besson Company, Buffet Crampon, the Thuringian State Chancellery and the MAXX Hotel Jena.

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    


udi

Results: 2026 Dutch National Championships

October 23 • Brass Band Schoonhoven reclaims National title as there are victories for Chr. Brass Band Excelsior, Brass Band De Bazuin B, Koperensemble de Waldsang and UDI Brass Band Oosternijkerk in Utrecht.


Black Dyke

Varley heads from Hammonds to Queensbury

October 23 • Philip Varley joins Black Dyke Band on solo cornet from Yorkshire rivals.


Dutch National Championships

Countdown to Dutch National Championships

October 21 • Go to our special live page of coverage from the 2026 Dutch National Championships which start at the TivoliVredenburg in Utrecht this afternoon.


Hands up

Audition call for Scottish Youth

October 21 • Young players in Scotland are being encouraged to audition for the National Youth Brass Band of Great Britain.


Regent Hall Concerts - The Band of the RAF Regiment

Friday 23 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - Redbridge Brass Band

Saturday 24 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


The Hepworth Band - Aireborough Rotary Club Annual Charity Concert

Sunday 25 October • Yeadon Town Hall, High Street, Yeadon LS19 7PP


Dobcross Silver Band - Tintwistle Band

Sunday 25 October • Dobcross Band Club. Platt Lane Dobcross. Oldham OL3 5AD


Regent Hall Concerts - Cliff Hardie Big Band

Thursday 29 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Linthwaite Band

October 24 • We are currently looking for a kit player to help complete our team. We are a 4th section contesting Band, with a busy period coming up, and would like to fill the position as soon as possible.


Linthwaite Band

October 24 • We currently have vacancies for 2 tenor trombones. As a 4th section contesting Band, we have a diary filling up with various engagements to keep us busy, and therefore keen to fill the positions.


Linthwaite Band

October 24 • We are a friendly 4th section contesting Band with a vacancy for a cornet player, position negotiable. Our diary is filling up with various engagements, so we are keen to fill the position.


Jenny Gartside

Bsc Hons
Jeweller, brass band themed jewellery and pin badges


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd