*
banner

No more M1 travel for Bond

The musical partnership between Christopher Bond and City of Cardiff (M1) Band has come to an end.

Bond
  Christopher Bond conducted the band from 2019

City of Cardiff (M1) Band has announced the departure of Musical Director Christopher Bond.

It ends a successful six-year tenure that started in January 2019, and resulted in multiple podium-place finishes at competitions such as the Welsh Open and Wychavon Festival of Brass.

In addition, the band became an accomplished top section contender in Wales and beyond, with the highlight their qualification for the 2022 National Finals at the Royal Albert Hall. Their innovative musical approach also saw them gain may concert and on-line admirers

Loved it

Speaking about his tenure with the band, he said: "I have absolutely loved the last six years, with the band reinvigorating my love of conducting and band training.

As my work commitments increase in other areas, the time is right for me to step aside and pass the baton on, but I wish the band every success moving forwards.

He added: "To all the players I've worked with; thank you for your time, commitment and friendships — it's been the best ride!"

Thanks

In response the band thanked him, "...for all the time he has given to M1 and the wider organisation and wish him all the best with his future endeavours."

Further details in the process of appointing a new Musical Director will be announced in the coming weeks.

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!


John Ward


Conductor, Adjudicator


               

 © 2025 4barsrest.com Ltd