*
banner

Skipsey returns to Bradford

Lee Skipsey has returned as conductor to the City of Bradford Band

Skipsey
  Lee Skipsey led the band to the National Finals at the Royal Albert Hall

City of Bradford Band has announced the return to former conductor Lee Skipsey.

It follows his departure from Milnrow Band and reignites a partnership that saw the band to rise from the Yorkshire Area Third Section in 2010 to represent the region at the Royal Albert Hall National Final seven years later.

Titles

Along the way they claimed numerous titles including Third Section National success in 2011, and the Yorkshire First Section title in 2014 amongst others.

He departed in 2020 with the band further consolidating their top section position under Jonathan Bates, Gareth Brindle and more recently Matthew Ryan, who stepped down from the role recently.

Welcome back

Lee recently returned for the band's annual concert, with a band spokesperson telling 4BR: "The whole organisation is delighted to welcome Lee back into the City of Bradford family.

His values have always aligned with ours: a passion for exciting and entertaining programmes, getting the best out of players and developing young talent within the organisation. We are very excited for the future."

I think history speaks for itself as we are concerned and I'm already enjoying every minute being backLee Skipsey

Understanding

In response Lee said: "My time with the band has always been exciting and some of the concerts and contest performances that I've been a part of have never left me.

When a band and conductor really understand each other's values, amazing things happen."

He added: "I think history speaks for itself as we are concerned and I'm already enjoying every minute being back.

Our goals are relatively simple: play as well as you can whatever the event, have encouragement and belief for those around you and enjoy yourself."

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

High demand for premium tickets for British Open

June 5 • Premium tickets for the British Open are starting to become increasingly limited — so don't miss out.


Chav Brass

Chav Brass set for serious fun at Whit Friday

June 5 • The scallywags of the Whit Friday circuit will be performing with serious ambition this year as they seek to inspire the next generation with a mix of DJ Sammy and Eric Ball...


Whit Friday

2025 Tameside Whit Friday details confirmed

June 4 • From start times to prize money, contact details and essential information — the details of the Tameside Whit Friday contests have been announced.


EverReady

Enjoy Spring Festival highlights

June 4 • The British Open has produced a special YouTube feature capturing the highlights of the 2025 Spring Festival in Blackpool.


Contest: Whit Friday March Contests

Friday 13 June • Saddleworth & Tameside OL3


Hebden Bridge Brass Band - The 13th annual Hebden Bridge March Contest

Sunday 15 June • St George's Square, Hebden Bridge HX7 8ET


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


HYDE BAND

June 5 • WE CURRENTLY HAVE PLAYER VACANCIES FOR BB BASS, BARITONE & EUPHONIUM. Join our friendly 1st Section Band in the New forest, working with our Musical Director: Ben Halstead on a varied programme of concerts and contests. Rehearsals Mon & Thurs 8-10


Besses Boys' Band

June 4 • Besses Boys' Band (1st Section 2026) are looking for SOLO TROMBONE. Rehearsals Monday & Friday 7:30pm-9:30pm at Lady Wilton Hall, Manchester - Good links to M60 ring road and city centre. Fun band with good concert and social balance


Besses Boys' Band

June 4 • Besses Boys' Band (1st Section 2026) are looking for CORNET players (position negotiable). Rehearse Monday & Friday 7:30pm-9:30pm at Lady Wilton Hall, Manchester - Good links to M60 ring road and city centre. Fun band with good concert and social balance


Lt Col David Barringer MBE

BMus (Hons)
Conductor and adjudicator


               

 © 2025 4barsrest.com Ltd