*
banner

XLCR juggernaut continues

Brisbane Excelsior has claimed its sixth National title in a row.

XLCR
 

Brisbane Excelsior continues to re-write the record books after winning the 2008 New Zealand National Championship last night in Christchurch.

XLCR and its Musical Director Howard Taylor convincingly won the Championship, successfully defending the title, and adding another National win to its tally.

The band has won four Australian National titles in a row, and now two consecutive NZ titles, a feat achieved by no other band in Australasian history.

I've been blessed by being surrounded by so many self-motivated musicians. Being a part of this historical journey has been incredible in so many ways, and will be firmly etched in my memory forever.Howard Taylor, Musical Director Brisbane Excelsior

Howard Taylor has been responsible for the musical shaping of the ensemble. When speaking to 4BRDU, Howard said, "I've been blessed by being surrounded by so many self-motivated musicians. Being a part of this historical journey has been incredible in so many ways, and will be firmly etched in my memory forever."

Band President Rick Casagrande said, "We have been fortunate to have had such a strong nucleus of players who have stayed together for so long. The band is made up of such vibrant, colourful and talented people. This has made the task of creating a cohesive group a pleasure."

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    


nATIONAL yOUTH cHAMPS

New opportunities and roles to play at Youth Championships

October 17 • From volunteer helpers to photographers, presenters and judges — Brass Bands England puts the call to be part of the 2027 National Youth Championships of Great Britain.


Espen Westbye

Westbye returns to take up residency in Stavanger

October 17 • Espen Westbye will join forces with David Morton at Stavanger as he returns as Resident Conductor ahead of Siddis challenge.


Tredegar Hall

Tredegar reconnect with Dance partner

October 17 • Dr Matthew Hall has returned to his role as Composer in Residence with Tredegar Band


Brass Monkeys

Death of Steve Edwards

October 17 • The death has been announced of the popular player and podcaster Steve Edwards.


Regent Hall Concerts - Queentet

Friday 16 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - Funny Bones Symphonic Brass

Friday 16 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - Fulham Brass Band

Friday 16 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Dobcross Silver Band -

Friday 16 October • Playhouse 2 . 2 Newtown street. Shaw. Oldham OL2 8NX


The Egham Band - The Egham Band Plays Classic Rock

Friday 16 October • St John's Church Egham, Manor Farm Lane, Egham tw20 9HR


Crewe Brass

October 16 • Crewe Brass are looking for a Front Row Cornet player to join our highly motivated 4th section band. We are a very welcoming and sociable band, with a positive outlook and a reasonably busy calendar of engagements. Other enquiries are welcome.


Crewe Brass

October 16 • Crewe Brass are looking for a Eb Bass player to join our highly motivated 4th section band. We are a very welcoming and sociable band, with a positive outlook and a reasonably busy calendar of engagements. Other enquiries are welcome.


Crewe Brass

October 16 • Crewe Brass are looking for a BBb Bass player to join our highly motivated 4th section band. We are a very welcoming and sociable band, with a positive outlook and a reasonably busy calendar of engagements. Other enquiries are welcome.


Andreas Kratz

Mus.B (hons)
Conductor, Adjudicator, Teacher


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd