*
banner

Ashworth gives Besses boost in determination

The appointment of the experienced David W Ashworth has brought increased optimism as well as new signings to the famous Besses o' th' Barn Band.

Besses
  There is renewed optimism and determination at the famous band

Determination as well as optimism is now flowing at Besses o' th' Barn Band following the recent appointment of the experienced David W Ashworth as MD.

Over the last two months or so one of the most famous names in the banding world has enjoyed a sense of rejuvenation as his ethos of improving standards in everything they do has started to show encouraging signs of success.

Delighted

Speaking to 4BR David said: "Taking on one of the most iconic names in banding has always to be balanced against the reality of what is required to get them back to where its history demands.

I've been delighted at the enthusiasm and commitment shown by everyone, with new players coming in and a renewed sense of progress shown in every rehearsal."

I've been delighted at the enthusiasm and commitment shown by everyone, with new players coming in and a renewed sense of progress shown in every rehearsalDavid W Ashworth

New signings

Those new signings include the experienced Danny Riley on principal cornet and Tony Rogers on euphonium.

Catriona Masson has moved from principal cornet to flugel, Nikki Taylor-Wylde has come in to play soprano, with Stuart Hardcastle leading the trombone section, along with Steve Hughes and Jimmy Tew on tuba. Rhys Jones also returns on the solo cornet bench.

"I'm thrilled we could persuade the new players to come in and delighted that others have either returned to add their experience in new roles,"

David said. "It means a great deal when a band displays such a positive attitude, and it makes the music making so much more enjoyable. There is a real buzz about Besses."

Further information

Although there is still a need of a few more players to fill the ranks the future now looks bright for the band from Whitefield in Manchester. For further details go to: https://besses.co.uk/

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    


Royal Albert Hall

Countdown previews of Symphony in Two Movements

October 5 • There will be a chance to hear how the competitors are getting on with their 'Symphony in Two Movements' preparations ahead of the Royal Albert National Final...


Foden

Foden's set for Regent Hall preview ahead of Albert Hall challenge

October 5 • Foden's Band will be joined by Mike Lovatt for their traditional Regent Hall pre-National preview next weekend.


Steph Wilshaw

Wilshaw looks to boost Audley Community

October 5 • Steph Wilshaw has been appointed the new Musical Director of Audley Community Band.


Fountain City Brass Band

Report & Result: 2025 United States Brass Invitational

October 5 • Fountain City takes the honours in Texas as a new event looks to further boost brass banding growth in the USA.


Regent Hall Concerts - Regent Hall Band of the Salvation Army

Sunday 5 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


Regent Hall Concerts - Stately Brass Quintet

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


Contest: National Brass Band Championships of Great Britain

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


Hathersage Band - Hathersage Village Autumn Concert

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


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!


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!


Andreas Kratz

Mus.B (hons)
Conductor, Adjudicator, Teacher


               

 © 2025 4barsrest.com Ltd