*
banner

Thundersley add to cabinet

The trophy cabinet at Thundersley Brass is starting to groan under the weight of silverware.

Thundersley
 

Thundersley Brass has added to its ever growing trophy cabinet by winning 5 prizes and being the most successful band at the recent SCABA Spring Contest in Hove.

Snow bound

The band woke on the contest morning to find their Essex homes under a thick layer of snow, but this didn't stop them making the treacherous 2 hour trip down south.

Having drawn number 1 the band had a quick rehearsal before being called on to the stage, only to then be sent away again as it was remembered that adjudicator Steve Pritchard-Jones wasnt yet in the adjudicators tent!

Taking advantage of SCABA rules, the band decided to play 'up a section' and take part in the combined Championship/1st Section contest later in the afternoon4BR

Settle nerves

This helped settle nerves, and delivered a programme that saw the adjudicator remark that it was "worthy of the championship section". In addition to taking the top prize, horn player David Howell was also awarded the "Best Instrumentalist Award", and the SCABA Centenary Trophy.

Move up

Taking advantage of SCABA rules, the band decided to play 'up a section' and take part in the combined Championship/1st Section contest later in the afternoon.

Praise

Once again Steve Pritchard-Jones threw particular praise upon the band and its horn and bass sections (who also took home the 'Best Basses' prize), Mark Skuse was rewarded by winning the 'Best Tenor Trombone' prize.

Scalping several higher section bands Thundersley were over the moon to be awarded 3rd place.

The band are now looking forward to further contest success later in the year, participating at Folkestone and Pontins.

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    


RNCM

Research recognition for RNCM

January 8 • The Royal Northern College of Music adds to its established recognition as a leading centre for the advanced study of music performance and composition.


ODBBA

ODBBA confident of capacity turn-out

January 8 • You will need to be quick to make sure you get your entry in for the Oxford & District Brass Band Association Winter Contest.


Geneva Clans

Geneva boost to cross border battle

January 8 • Geneva Instruments has boosted the prize funds for the forthcoming 'Clans vs Counties Contest' in June.


Elland

Elland to lead youth procession to the Minster

January 8 • Eight youth and training bands will provide the musical entertainment at Halifax Minster next month.


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


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.


Mid Rhondda Band

January 6 • Mid Rhondda Band are currently looking for a trombone player and percussionists to join the team. We are a friendly, welcoming 3rd section band working towards competing in the Welsh Area in March. We also have a variety of events booked for 2026.


The Marple Band

January 6 • Bb Bass and Tuned Percussionist vacancies to join our fabulous band. We are a friendly, ambitious 2nd Section band, starting an exciting new year.


Jason M Smith


Band Trainer (Contest Preparation), Conductor


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd