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4BR Review — Episode 12

Iwan Fox and Chris Thomas discuss if we are starting to see a change in the music being performed at at major contests, concerts and on recordings.

Music
  The latest review episode can now be enjoyed

Welcome to the latest 4BR Review podcast, where 4BR Editor Iwan Fox and colleague Chris Thomas chat about what has, what is and what will be going on in the brass band world.

Change?

For this latest episode they explore the intriguing question of whether or not there has been a subtle, yet significant change in outlook in the music being performed at major contests, concerts and on recordings.

It follows the music heard at the Albert Hall, Brass in Concert and at various European National Championships of late, as well as high profile concerts and CD releases, whilst in the last week or so we got to find out what was in store at the 2026 RNCM International Brass Band Festival.

Less sugar more fibre

So, is this the potential start of a new era of less sugar and more musical fibre in our diet or just a temporary hiatus before we head back on the same old habits?

To enjoy:


To enjoy: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RUdNdzaBszQ

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4BR Podcast

4BR Review podcast — RNCM International Brass Band Festival

January 12 • Iwan Fox and Chris Thomas will be joined by RNCM International Brass Band Festival Artistic Director Dr David Thornton this Wednesday to focus on the forthcoming showcase event in Manchester.


Peter Moore

Moore spotlight in Birmingham, Barcelona and London

January 12 • Peter Moore will be joining forces with various friends and ensembles for a busy January series of performances — including an exciting Trivergence of troms.


Philip Jones

Philip Jones celebration in London

January 12 • Leading student brass ensembles will celebrate the life and legacy of the iconic trumpet player Philip Jones.


Regional Championships

BBP Registry issues reminder

January 12 • Bands are being reminded that they need to have all their registration requirements in order ahead of the regional championships this year.


Newstead Brass - Brett Baker

Saturday 17 January • St Wilfrid's Church, . Kirkby-in-Ashfield NG17 8LA


The Hepworth Band - New Year Concert

Sunday 25 January • Christ Church, New Mill, Holmfirth HD9 7ER


Contest: Norwegian National Brass Band Championships

Friday 6 February • Grieghallen, Bergen, N-5015 N-5015


Contest: Norwegian National Brass Band Championships

Saturday 7 February • Grieghallen, Bergen, N-5015 N-5015


Contest: London & Southern Counties Regional Championships

Saturday 21 March • Arts & Leisure Centre, Lytton Way, Stevenage SG1 1LZ


Otley Brass Association

January 11 • Tenor Trombone Player needed for 6 week holiday cover with Otley Brass Band.. Practice is Tuesday nights 7.30-9.30pm at Otley Courthouse, LS21 3AN


Cambrian Brass

January 11 • We are a friendly, inclusive and hard-working brass band, welcoming players of all ages and abilities. We are particularly keen to fill our Soprano Cornet, Flugelhorn, Tenor Horn, Euphonium and EEb Bass positions.


Putney and Wimbledon Brass Band

January 8 • Following our promotion to the 2nd section we are looking for a percussionist to do a bit of bing bonging on the timps for the regionals in March. We are a lovely band - everyone says so - so please get in touch. Rehearsals Weds from 1930 in Putney.


Phillip Littlemore

GGSM, AoBBA Member
Conductor, Band Trainer, Adjudicator, Arranger, Teacher and Publisher


               

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