*
banner

Walkers trek for Whitwell cash

The Whitwell Band has benefitted to the tune of £8,500 after brave souls (or soles) trek for 41 miles.

Whitwell
 

Whitwell Brass has been donated £8,500 courtesy of the 2008 Louise Smalley Walk.

Eighty people, including many members of the band completed the 41 mile walk in June, and the band's principal cornet player, David Wheatley even managed to complete 100 miles in less than 24 hours.

Well spent

Band Secretary, Paul Wood told 4BR: "The money will be spent on new instruments for the band which will release older instruments for the beginner classes which take place each Saturday morning."

The walk is an annual event in memory of Louise Smalley, a little girl who when she was born in 1992 was given days to live because of a heart defect. She defied the odds to live for thirteen months, during which time she even beat meningitis.

The money will be spent on new instruments for the band which will release older instruments for the beginner classes which take place each Saturday morningSecretary Paul Wood

Worth it

Band member Ryan Stacey added: "The Louise Smalley Walk is definitely the most challenging thing I have ever undertaken, but when you fully understand the history and tradition behind the event, and that you are suffering the blisters and muscle strains to support a local organisation, it makes it all worth while."

Premiere

As part of the announcement ceremony, Whitwell gave the world premiere of 'Suite in Eb', conducted by Stan Lippeatt. The band commissioned MD, David Fretwell to compose the work as part of a successful grant application at the start of the year.

The piece paints a musical picture of the village from its foundation over 1000 years ago to the well dressing celebrations, a tradition that continues to this day.

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    


British Open judges

Adjudication panel announced for British Open Championship

June 23 • Another move to the future for the British Open as Stephen Roberts, Anne Crookston and David Hirst are confirmed as the judges for the 171st Championship event at Symphony Hall in September.


Liberty Brass Band

Report & Result: 2025 Mountain Brass in Concert

June 23 • Liberty Brass Band wins the first Swiss 'Brass in Concert' entertainment title


Bugle

Report & Results: 2025 West of England Bandsmens Festival

June 23 • Camborne retain their Royal Trophy credentials as gain a huge haul of silverware in Bugle, as St Austell, Shrewton Silver, Illogan Sparnon Silver, St Austell Youth and Carharrack & St Day Silver also head home with titles.


Hepworth

Report & Result: 2025 Blackburn & Darwen March & Hymn Tune Contest

June 23 • Hepworth showcase their grand march and hymn tune talents as they take the honours and £1000 first prize at the popular event.


The Portsmouth Grammar School - Concert by The Black Dyke Band

Saturday 28 June • St Marys Church, Fratton, Portsmouth PO15PA PO15PA


Petworth Town Band - Fete in the Park with Petworth Town Band

Saturday 28 June • Grounds of Petworth Park GU28 9LR


Petworth Town Band - Farnham Brass Band and Petworth Town Band

Saturday 28 June • Farnham Carnival


Petworth Town Band - Petworth Town Band at Billingshurst Carnival

Sunday 29 June • Carnival through Billingshurst and concert at Recreation Ground RH14 9SX


Simon Langton Brass - Deal Memorial Bandstand

Sunday 29 June • The Strand, Walmer, Deal CT14 7DY CT14 7DY


Alder Valley Brass

June 26 • We are looking for BBb bass and soprano cornet players to join our ambitious, busy and sociable 2nd section band (national finalists 2023) with a good blend of concerts, engagements and contests. Rehearsals Mondays and Thursdays 8-10pm in Farnham, Surrey.


Bilton Silver Rugby Band

June 25 • With a varied upcoming programme of events and following on from our successful "Musicals" concert and first ever trip to Saddleworth for Whit Friday, the band requires an Eb Bass player to join our group.


Alder Valley Brass

June 24 • As a result of a relocation we seek a Musical Director. We are an ambitious, busy and sociable 2nd section band (L&SC, National finalists 2023) with a blend of engagements, concerts and contests. We rehearse 8-10pm on Mondays and Thursdays in Farnham


Alex McGee

MA BMus PGCE
Conductor & Composer


               

 © 2025 4barsrest.com Ltd