*
banner

Rainford honour Hodges and Upton

Over 130 years of joint service to the banding movement by Frank Hodges and Phil Upton has been recognised by Rainford Band.

Rainford Band
  The band honoured the pair at their recent annual Christmas concert

Frank Hodges and Phil Upton, two long-standing members of Rainford Band have been honoured for their 65 years' service to the organisation and the wider banding movement.

They were presented with their awards at the band's recent annual concert.

Hugely respected

Although known throughout the banding world as the hugely respected British Open Contest Administrator until his retirement this year Frank Hodges has also been a baritone player, administrator, registry official and contest controller at events such as the Pontins Championships, Brass at the Guild Hall and Brass at the Wire.

Phil Upton has also been a significant administration figure at events such as the British Open and throughout the banding movement, although he too enjoyed his playing, being part of the Rainford Band that rose from the Fourth to the Championship Section. He remains an integral part of the band's administration to this day.

Immense contribution

In honouring the pair, Band Chairperson Geoff Hunter said: "Both Frank and Phil have made an immense contribution to the banding movement in so many different roles.

Frank is known as 'Mr Brass Band' to thousands of people and his achievements speak for themselves, and Phil worked tirelessly as a contest organiser, administrator, and as an outstanding Rainford player and committee member."

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    


Gregson

Focus on Gregson's Choice on National eve

October 8 • The International Staff Band of the Salvation Army will be joined by Ian Bousfield for an aperitif evening of music from the pen of Edward Gregson ahead of his Albert Hall challenge.


World of Brass

Cory and Baker CD brace launched

October 8 • The latest CD releases from Cory and Brett Baker will be on sale at the Royal Albert Hall this year.


4BR Preview

4BR Review — Episode 9

October 7 • Join the conversion with your views and opinions about the Royal Albert Hall National Final — who you think may win and what you feel should be done to secure its future.


the cooperation band

Half century mark for cooperation players

October 7 • Keith Johnstone and Ray Munday have just notched up 50 years of outstanding service to the brass band movement — with an appearance at the Albert Hall to help with the celebrations.


Regent Hall Concerts - Stately Brass Quintet

Friday 10 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. WC1 2DJ W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - Academy Symphonic Brass

Friday 10 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. WC1 2DJ W1C2DJ


Hathersage Band - Hathersage Village Autumn Concert

Saturday 11 October • Hathersage Methodist Church, Main Road, Hathersage S32 1BB S32 1BB


Contest: National Brass Band Championships of Great Britain

Saturday 11 October • The Royal Albert Hall, Kensington Gore, South Kensington, London SW7 2AP


Regent Hall Concerts - Regent Hall Band of the Salvation Army

Tuesday 14 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. WC1 2DJ W1C2DJ


Chinnor Silver

October 8 • Our community band is meeting again 11am Monday 13th after completing our first gig.. We would love you to join us.We are a band of mixed abilities and welcome ALL players.. Blowing with us will not impact on your own band and its all free.


Welwyn Garden City Band

October 6 • We are a friendly & sociable Second Section Band with an exciting and varied Christmas season ahead. Due to an employment relocation, we have an immediate vacancy for a FRONT ROW CORNET player.


Tewit Silver Band

October 4 • Principal Eb Bass. Our established bass section are looking for a strong leader to elevate their performance - could that be you? We have an exciting contest schedule including the Scottish Open and and full set of new Besson basses!


Jack Capstaff

Bmus (Hons)
Conductor | Composer


               

 © 2025 4barsrest.com Ltd