*
banner

Goodall returns to Smithills

Composer Howard Goodall makes a return visit to Smithills.

Godhall
 

Film and television composer Howard Goodall, who officially opened Smithills School as a 'Specialist Performing Arts College' in 2004, made a welcome return visit to the school this week.

Theme tunes

The award winning composer of 'Blackadder', 'Mr Bean', 'The Vicar of Dibley', 'QI' currently presents a weekly, two hour show every Saturday on Classic FM radio in addition to presenting many BBC and Channel 4 television programmes.

Howard was in Bolton to receive an Honorary Doctorate, and in his acceptance speech singled out Smithills School Senior Brass Band and MD Chris Wormald for providing him inspiration4BR

Inspiration

Howard was in Bolton to receive an Honorary Doctorate from the University and in his acceptance speech singled out Smithills School Senior Brass Band and MD Chris Wormald for providing him inspiration to become heavily involved in music education following their performance in the Royal Albert Hall in London in 2003.

He went on to compose a piece especially for the band in 2004 which was given its world premiere on the band’s 2005 USA tour.

School tour

Having received his Honorary Doctorate, Howard accompanied Chris Wormald to Smithills where a number of senior brass band players were waiting to welcome them, including principal cornet player Joanna Hurst who played on the Christmas special of 'The Vicar of Dibley' at the personal invitation of Howard two years ago.

After a tour of the school, and the Music Department, Howard then left for Manchester airport before flying back to London to work on more award winning music.

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    


Royal Albert Hall

Countdown previews of Symphony in Two Movements

October 5 • There will be a chance to hear how the competitors are getting on with their 'Symphony in Two Movements' preparations ahead of the Royal Albert National Final...


Foden

Foden's set for Regent Hall preview ahead of Albert Hall challenge

October 5 • Foden's Band will be joined by Mike Lovatt for their traditional Regent Hall pre-National preview next weekend.


Steph Wilshaw

Wilshaw looks to boost Audley Community

October 5 • Steph Wilshaw has been appointed the new Musical Director of Audley Community Band.


Fountain City Brass Band

Report & Result: 2025 United States Brass Invitational

October 5 • Fountain City takes the honours in Texas as a new event looks to further boost brass banding growth in the USA.


Regent Hall Concerts - Regent Hall Band of the Salvation Army

Sunday 5 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. WC1 2DJ W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - Academy Symphonic Brass

Friday 10 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. WC1 2DJ W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - Stately Brass Quintet

Friday 10 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. WC1 2DJ W1C2DJ


Contest: National Brass Band Championships of Great Britain

Saturday 11 October • The Royal Albert Hall, Kensington Gore, South Kensington, London SW7 2AP


Hathersage Band - Hathersage Village Autumn Concert

Saturday 11 October • Hathersage Methodist Church, Main Road, Hathersage S32 1BB S32 1BB


Welwyn Garden City Band

October 6 • We are a friendly & sociable Second Section Band with an exciting and varied Christmas season ahead. Due to an employment relocation, we have an immediate vacancy for a FRONT ROW CORNET player.


Tewit Silver Band

October 4 • Principal Eb Bass. Our established bass section are looking for a strong leader to elevate their performance - could that be you? We have an exciting contest schedule including the Scottish Open and and full set of new Besson basses!


Tewit Silver Band

October 4 • Principal Eb Bass. Our established bass section are looking for a strong leader to elevate their performance - could that be you? We have an exciting contest schedule including the Scottish Open and and full set of new Besson basses!


Gordon Eddison

B Ed (Hons). Member AoBBA.
Conductor and Adjudicator.


               

 © 2025 4barsrest.com Ltd