*
banner

Parliamentary praise for Flowers

As they prepare for a busy brace of concert appearances, the achievements of the new European Champion have been noted in Parliament.

Flowers
  Flowers won the European title in Linz

The newly crowned European Champion has gained parliamentary recognition for its historic achievement in claiming the title in Linz in April.

It came from the Flowers Band's local MP, Alex McIntyre, who asked the Leader of the House to join him in congratulating them on their success, as well as that enjoyed by all young musicians in Gloucester.

Unbelievable talent

The Labour MP had been invited to their open rehearsal prior to the contest, where he said he saw their "their fantastic hard work, dedication and unbelievable talent"that led to their triumph.

The Leader of the House responded by adding his congratulations on them becoming the first English band since 2015 to win the title, whilst adding that, "brass bands are so important to our local communities" in enabling youngsters to gain access to learn an instrument and take part in bands

The band is now looking forward to its people at the Newbury Spring Festival on Saturday 23rd May, which will include both their own-choice work from Linz, 'West Wind Metamorphoses for Brass Band' by Oliver Waespi as well as Richard Blackford's major new work, 'Orbital'.

Newbury and Elgar

Following that they will continue their busy schedule with their appearance at the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire on Sunday 7th June as part of the Elgar International Brass Band Festival.

It will include 'Electric!', a brand-new euphonium solo commissioned for Daniel Thomas from composer Lucy Pankhurst, 'Helios' by Kelly-Marie Murphy, 'Ar Lan y Mor' by Gavin Higgins, 'Pall Mall' and a reprise of Oliver Waespi's test-piece as well as the upcoming British Open test piece, 'Music of the Spheres' by Philip Sparke.

Tickets

Tickets and further information:

Newbury Festival
https://www.newburyspringfestival.org.uk/event/flowers-band-2026/

Elgar International Brass Band Festival
www.eifob.org.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    


Brighouse

British Open Countdown: T minus 7

September 5 • 10 bands taking part this year have lifted the famous British Open Gold Shield in triumph...


Mead

Tour marathon for Mead

September 5 • Steven Mead marks a musical milestone with a marathon Asian tour.


Boax

Bands need to tick right Boax at Registry

September 5 • Cory Band baritone player Charlie Boax has joined the Brass Band Players Registry as their new Office Administrator.


Brass Monkeys

Podcast: The Brass Monkeys — Episode 38

September 5 • The North Wales banding boys are back with more chat.


The Hepworth Band - Public Rehearsal ahead of the 2026 British Open

Tuesday 8 September • Ossett Town Hall, Market Place, Ossett WF5 8BE


Sherborne Town Band - Free-Music in the park

Sunday 13 September • Sherborne, Dorset-Pageant Gardens DT9 3NP


Regent Hall Concerts - The Band of the Grenadier Guards

Thursday 17 September • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - The Duchess of Edinburgh String Orchestra

Friday 18 September • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - The Band of the Irish Guards

Thursday 1 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Enderby Band

September 5 • Championship section band seeking CORNETS (positions negotiable), Eb BASS, and PERCUSSIONISTS to join our committed, hard-working and friendly team, performing a balanced diary of concerts and contests.


Harrogate Band

September 4 • The Harrogate Band are looking for a 1st Baritone and Soprano player to complete our team. Forward thinking and exciting band with a wide range of engagements and contests. Rehearsals are Wednesday 8pm in our own bandroom with great transport links.


Yorkshire Imperial

September 3 • Yorkshire Imperial band have SECOND HORN and BBb BASS vacancies available. . At Imps we have a proud tradition, clear ambitions and a sensible, well-planned schedule. We're looking for musicians who want to make outstanding music & will enjoy the journey.


Sam Fisher

BA (Hons), PGCE, Dip.ABRSM
Conductor, Adjudicator (AoBBA), Composer/Arranger, Cornet & Flugelhorn Soloist


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd