*
banner

MD changes at BTM

With Jason Katsikaris back in Oz for a break, Graham O'Connor takes over the helm at BTM.

BTM
 

After a highly successful 2007, the Bedwas, Trethomas and Machen Band's MD Jason Katsikaris has taken a well-earned break back in sunny Sydney.

Yorkshire appointment

And while Jason kicks back, catches rays and blows the dust of the barbie, the band has moved to engage Yorkshireman Graham O'Connor who will take BTM to the Welsh Area as well as the Yeovil and Porthcawl entertainment competitions.

2007 was a tremendous year for BTM under Jason's guiding hand. Starting with a win at the Porthcawl Miners Eisteddfod they showed well at the Areas, Grand Shield and Masters competitions and went on to claim a creditable 7th place at the National Finals in London.

Rounded off nicely

They rounded off the year nicely being crowned Welsh League Champions after winning the Ebbw Vale, Burry Port and Treorchy competitions.

A sponsorship deal with UK workplace service provider the PHS Group plc enabled the band to buy new walking out uniforms which were paraded for the first time at the Royal Albert Hall.

Jason conducted the band for the last time at the annual concert in Caerphilly before heading home. However, it's only a temporary migration to New South Wales and Jason will be flying back to the UK in the Spring.

He's (Jason) a bundle of energy working tirelessly for the band and that's been shown in the success we've had. We're a far more consistant band now and are looking to progress even more from hereBand Manager, Jeff Hutcherson

Area challenge

In the meantime Graham will be leading BTM's challenge at the Welsh area in Swansea in March and said he was looking forward it.

"I've been hearing good things about BTM for a while and this year especially they've shown they are a force to a reckoned with," he told 4BR. "I'm looking forward to the New Year and getting them back to the Albert Hall."

Well earned rest

Band Manager Jeff Hutcherson told 4BR: "We're all very grateful to Jason for the work he's put in over the last 18 months. I'd like to publically thank him. He's a bundle of energy working tirelessly for the band and that's been shown in the success we've had. We're a far more consistant band now and are looking to progress even more from here."

He concluded: "Jason deserves a well-earned rest but we also wish him a speedy return. In the meantime I'm delighted that Graham's agreed to take charge. He's been very positive and I'm sure will keep the band going forward."

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

Report & Result: 2025 British Open Championship

September 7 • A fait accompli for Brighouse & Rastrick and Prof David King as they are inspired by Shakespeare and Prokofiev to claim the happiest of Symphony Hall endings on 'Star Crossed Lovers'.


Band Supplies

Band Supplies at the British Open

September 6 • Go up and meet one of the best blokes in the banding business world and he will make sure you get all the help you need for the best deals.


4BR Review

Recap on the 4BR British Open preview

September 6 • If you missed the live broadcast British Open preview on 4BR then you can just click and enjoy it again ahead of the action at Symphony Hall.


Mead

Why not be a judge at the Open this year?

September 6 • If you are following the 'Sar Crossed Lovers' action at Symphony Hall today, let us know who you think has won.


Contest: 171st British Open

Saturday 6 September • Broad Street, Birmingham. B1 2EA


Contest: Lower Sections 1-4 National Finals

Saturday 13 September • Cheltenham Racecourse, Evesham Road, Cheltenham GL50 4SH


Contest: Lower Sections 1-4 National Finals

Sunday 14 September • Cheltenham Racecourse, Evesham Road, Cheltenham. . *Please note as of 24th August 2023 the date is provisional according to Kapitol Promotions website GL50 4SH


Petworth Town Band - Petworth Town Band at Petworth Heritage weekend

Saturday 20 September • Centre of Petworth Town GU28 OAH


Cheltenham Silver Band - Holst Birthday Concert

Saturday 20 September • All Saints Church, All Saints Road, Pittville, Cheltenham GL52 2HG


Otley Brass Association

September 7 • Front Row Cornet. -. Otley Brass Band are keen to recruit a 5th member for their front row cornets (position negotiable).. . This is an exciting opportunity to join a thriving band of 30+ players under the leadership of our newly appointed MD, Martyn Beecham


wantage silver band

September 6 • Wantage Band (Championship Section) have vacancies for a Bb BASS PLAYER and THIRD CORNET to complete their line up. Plenty of great concerts from now until Christmas with the Welsh Open, L&SC Area, British Open Grand Shield and Whit Friday in 2026.


wantage silver band

September 6 • Positions vacant: wantage silver band: Wantage Community Brass (non-competitive) are looking to recruit a new Musical Director. The group is unique in that the average age is almost certainly around 70! They rehearse on Tue from 4pm and Thu from 7pm.


Darren R. Hawken

PGdip, BMus(hons) PGCE, dipABRSM, LRSM
Conductor, Arranger, Teacher, Adjudicator, Band Trainer


               

 © 2025 4barsrest.com Ltd