*
banner

Cooper takes lead at Central England

The experienced Stephen Cooper is the new Musical Director of Brass Band of Central England

Brassbandsofcentralengland
  Stephen Cooper takes on the role with immediate effect

Brass Band of Central England has confirmed the appointment of Stephen Cooper as its new Musical Director.

"After a successful Christmas period working with the band, we are delighted to welcome Steve in the role,"Band Manager David Kershaw told 4BR.

"We have known Steve for many years as he has numerous connections with the band, and it is great to have him formally join us. He brings a wealth of experience, and we are excited to work with him as we move into our next new chapter."

Experience

Stephen graduated from the London College of Music where he studied under James Gourlay and David Evans and was awarded the Kenwynd Beard Brass Prize and the John McCabe Director's Performance Prize.

The former euphonium player has also toured with many leading UK orchestras and has successfully guided numerous bands including Horsham, City of Coventry Brass, Ibstock Building Products Band and Sovereign Brass.

Thanks

David Kershaw added: "Steve takes over from Iain McKnight who we would like to thank for all his hard work with us over the last 12 months. We now look forward to working with Steve and professional conductor Howard Evans as we start to prepare for the forthcoming Midland Regional Championships."

Stephen is said to be "delighted"and looks forward to future successes.

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    


British Open judges

Adjudication panel announced for British Open Championship

June 23 • Another move to the future for the British Open as Stephen Roberts, Anne Crookston and David Hirst are confirmed as the judges for the 171st Championship event at Symphony Hall in September.


Liberty Brass Band

Report & Result: 2025 Mountain Brass in Concert

June 23 • Liberty Brass Band wins the first Swiss 'Brass in Concert' entertainment title


Bugle

Report & Results: 2025 West of England Bandsmens Festival

June 23 • Camborne retain their Royal Trophy credentials as gain a huge haul of silverware in Bugle, as St Austell, Shrewton Silver, Illogan Sparnon Silver, St Austell Youth and Carharrack & St Day Silver also head home with titles.


Hepworth

Report & Result: 2025 Blackburn & Darwen March & Hymn Tune Contest

June 23 • Hepworth showcase their grand march and hymn tune talents as they take the honours and £1000 first prize at the popular event.


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


Alder Valley Brass

June 26 • We are looking for BBb bass and soprano cornet players to join our ambitious, busy and sociable 2nd section band (national finalists 2023) with a good blend of concerts, engagements and contests. Rehearsals Mondays and Thursdays 8-10pm in Farnham, Surrey.


Bilton Silver Rugby Band

June 25 • With a varied upcoming programme of events and following on from our successful "Musicals" concert and first ever trip to Saddleworth for Whit Friday, the band requires an Eb Bass player to join our group.


Alder Valley Brass

June 24 • As a result of a relocation we seek a Musical Director. We are an ambitious, busy and sociable 2nd section band (L&SC, National finalists 2023) with a blend of engagements, concerts and contests. We rehearse 8-10pm on Mondays and Thursdays in Farnham


Prof. Christopher Houlding

MMus, GGSM, LRAM
Conductor, Performer, Educator


               

 © 2025 4barsrest.com Ltd