*
banner

John Roberts — Circumnavigator

Skelmanthorpe's MD circumnavigates his way to yet another sea inspired success.

John Roberts
 

Skelmanthorpe MD John Roberts has told 4BR that he is hoping that the First Section National Finals test piece will have some sort of link to the sea later this year, as his band can’t seem to lose when they get the salty smell of the waves in their contesting nostrils!

100 miles inland

"I just thought it was that we enjoyed going to play be the sea given that we have now won at Pontins and Butlins, but even though we are about 100 miles inland at Bradford the link with the ocean waves in James Cook seemed to inspire us again!"

Inspired they were too and the MDs experience of the piece built up as both a player and conductor saw them claim a clear victory. "I really enjoy Gilbert Vinter’s music, and although on paper this looks perhaps one of his easier pieces, the more you delve into it the more it reveals itself as a great work."

...even though we are about 100 miles inland at Bradford the link with the ocean waves in James Cook seemed to inspire us again!John Roberts

Atmosphere

John added: "I’ve played it many years ago of course but also worked on it as a conductor too and I knew that we had to really work hard to ensure that we managed not only to play the notes, but also captured the sense of atmosphere and inspiration. I must thank all my players again for all the hard work they have put in, but a special mention to my principal cornet player Jo Payne who was making her Bradford debut. She was wonderful and played a huge part in our success."

Nautical pieces?

As for the Finals then? "I’ve been looking for nautical pieces, so you never know – ‘Un Vie de Matelot’ or ‘Seascapes’ would be nice wouldn’t it?"

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    


dobcross

Result: 2025 National Championships of Great Britain — Third Section

September 14 • Dobcross Silver strikes royal gold as they claim the Third Section honours.


arbroath

Result: 2025 National Championships of Great Britain — Fourth Section

September 14 • The Fourth Section National title heads to Scotland with Arbroath & Carnoustie.


unite

Result: 2025 National Championships of Great Britain — First Section

September 13 • Unite the Union claims 'Checkmate' over their rivals to claim the First Section National title.


south Yorkshire Police

Result: 2025 National Championships of Great Britain — Second Section

September 13 • South Yorkshire Police claim the first title of the Cheltenham weekend.


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


Regent Hall Concerts - The Band of the Grenadier Guards Big Band

Friday 26 September • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. WC1 2DJ W1C2DJ


Brass Bands England - The Brass Band Conference

Saturday 27 September • Redhills Durham Miners Hall, Durham DH1 4BE


Regent Hall Concerts - The Band of the Irish Guards

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


Audley Brass

September 14 • Audley Brass (First Section National Finalists 2025) are seeking a first class PRINCIPAL EUPHONIUM. We have some very exciting events coming up including 5 epic beer festival nights and Wychavon Festival of Brass entertainment contest.


Longridge Band

September 13 • Longridge Band invite applications for a SOPRANO CORNET player. We are a friendly, committed band, who enjoy a good balance of concerts and contests throughout the year.


Chinnor Silver

September 11 • Our COMMUNITY BAND are meeting again on Monday (15th) and we would welcome any players who fancy joining us for a relaxed and friendly blow.. All abilities are welcome and meeting with us has no impact on your main band.. Cake and coffee included FREE


James Garlick

BMus (Hons), QTS
Conductor, Band Trainer, Adjudicator, Tutor


               

 © 2025 4barsrest.com Ltd