*
banner

Alexander really was great!

Young soprano star enjoys first moment in the spotlight.

Rees
 

Gareth Ritter, MD of the City of Cardiff (Melingriffith) Band, was faced with a dilemma at the recent Lower Section National Finals in Harrogate when the band’s regular soprano cornet player announced that he couldn't play due to work commitments.

Ready and willing

However, a ready and willing replacement was found in 11 year old Alexander Rees, who not only took on the responsibility, but produced a flawless performance in helping the band to 3rd place in the Third Section.

In addition Alexander also became a bit of an overnight star, with the assembled hacks of the press corps all waxing lyrical over his playing, and adjudicator Kevin Wadsworth expressing amazement when told by 4BR that he was only 11 years of age.

He rose to the occasion and played his part with a maturity well beyond his years and both adjudicators made special mention of his playingMD,Gareth Ritter

Massive call

MD Gareth Ritter told 4BR: "This was a massive call for such a young player, but he was great! He rose to the occasion and played his part with a maturity well beyond his years and both adjudicators made special mention of his playing."

Gareth added: "In fact, the whole band turned in a first class performance. We intend to continue improving our performance and go on to yet greater things."

Up through the ranks

Alexander is a pupil at Radyr Comprehensive School, and is a product of the City of Cardiff (Melingriffith) Training Band. Along with his brother, David, he has now graduated to the senior band and both have promising musical careers ahead of them.

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    


NYBBGB

NYBBGB concert reprise this Friday

September 18 • You can sit back and enjoy a repeat of the National Youth Brass Band of Great Britain's Summer Concert this Friday evening.


Future

Brass Foundations Future Leaders graduate with distinction

September 18 • The first cohort of future brass band leaders graduate from the pioneering BBE programme.


cooperation and adams

Adams and coop in percussion partnership

September 18 • Adams Percussion and the cooperation band have entered into a new percussion partnership.


Dutch

Dutch judges announced

September 18 • The adjudication panels for the Dutch National Championships have been confirmed.


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


Dobcross Silver Band - Milnrow Band

Sunday 21 September • c/o Dobcross Band Club. Platt Lane. Dobcross Saddleworth OL3 5AD


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


Rockingham Brass Band

September 19 • Trombone Vacancy!. Yorkshire 3rd Section band in Barnsley seeks trombone players! Supportive, sociable band. Rehearsals Mon & Wed 19:45-21:45 at The Band Room, Rockingham Centre, Hoyland Common S74 0PY. Instrument can be provided


Rockingham Brass Band

September 19 • Soprano Cornet Vacancy!. We're a Yorkshire 3rd Section band in Barnsley with a soprano cornet seat available! Fun, friendly group. Rehearsals Mon & Wed, 19:45-21:45 at at The Band Room, Rockingham Centre, Hoyland Common S74 0PY.. Instrument can be provided


Rockingham Brass Band

September 19 • Back Row Cornet Vacancy!. Yorkshire 3rd Section band in Barnsley seeks cornet players! Friendly, welcoming group with team spirit. Rehearsals Mon & Wed 19:45-21:45 at The Band Room, Rockingham Centre, Hoyland Common S74 0PY.. Instrument can be provided


Darren R. Hawken

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


               

 © 2025 4barsrest.com Ltd