*
banner

Hirst dedication honoured on National homecoming to Queensbury

Adrian Hirst's 30 years of dedication and excellence was honoured at Black Dyke's recent concert in the heart of Queensbury.

Black Dyke Band
  Black Dyke Band honoured player and administrator Adrian Hirst at the concert

Black Dyke Band brought a long awaited Christmas present back to Queensbury as they gave their annual festive concert at their local Parish Church.

The famous National Championship Trophy was perched on the pulpit next to the band for the first time since 2014 as led by Director Music Prof Nicholas Childs they entertained the packed pews of Pondasher supporters.

Presentation

The celebratory atmosphere was also enhanced by the presentation of a Long Service Award to Adrian Hirst — marking 30 years of dedication and excellence to the band as both a player and administrator.

Speaking to 4BR, Prof Childs said: "It was a triumphant return, and we were thrilled to be able to show off the National Trophy once again. My thanks go to everyone who joined us for this celebration."

Inspirational

He added: "I was particularly delighted that we were able to honour Adrian. He is everything a true bandsman should be — an inspirational man, a fantastic player, a true friend and amazing colleague.

He and his wife Karen have put their hearts and souls into Black Dyke. 30 years have passed so quickly and I'm sure there are many, many more to come."

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    


Flowers

Flowers stars to inspire next generation

September 16 • The Oxfordshire & District Brass Bands Association will host a special youth workshop with members of Flowers Band — so get along.


Royston

Balsom return to Royston gains BBC coverage

September 16 • Award winning trumpeter recently returned to her brass banding roots as she prepared for her final concert appearance at the Last Night of the Proms.


Red Admiral

Live stream for Red Admiral watching

September 16 • If you can't make it to the Red Admiral Entertainment contest later this month you can sit back an enjoy it at home instead.


BBE Podcast

Brass Band Podcast Season 2: The Next Generation

September 16 • The second season of BBE's popular podcast series returns exploring the themes of the future of brass bands, leadership, and music-making.


Petworth Town Band - Petworth Town Band at Petworth Heritage weekend

Saturday 20 September • Centre of Petworth Town GU28 OAH


Cheltenham Silver Band - Holst Birthday Concert

Saturday 20 September • All Saints Church, All Saints Road, Pittville, Cheltenham GL52 2HG


Regent Hall Concerts - The Band of the Grenadier Guards Big Band

Friday 26 September • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. WC1 2DJ W1C2DJ


Brass Bands England - The Brass Band Conference

Saturday 27 September • Redhills Durham Miners Hall, Durham DH1 4BE


Regent Hall Concerts - The Band of the Irish Guards

Thursday 2 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. WC1 2DJ W1C2DJ


Leicestershire Co-op Band

September 16 • Leicestershire Co-op Band currently have a vacancy for a SOLO HORN player to lead our team. We have an exciting programme of concert and contests for the remainder of 2025 and into 2026. Could you be the player we are looking for to complete our team?


Dobcross Silver Band

September 16 • Currently 3rd Section National Champions and subsequent promotion to SECOND SECTION in 2026, we aim to add another PERCUSSIONIST to our award winning section. Dynamic all rounder preferred. You’ll love it here! Great rehearsals, gigs and socials!


Audley Brass

September 14 • Audley Brass (First Section National Finalists 2025) are seeking a first class PRINCIPAL EUPHONIUM. We have some very exciting events coming up including 5 epic beer festival nights and Wychavon Festival of Brass entertainment contest.


John Maines

BA (Hons)
Presenter, compere and conductor


               

 © 2025 4barsrest.com Ltd