*
banner

Curse of the sequel for Test Valley?

Could it be Jaws 2 or something a bit better for the new generation at Test Valley Brass?

Test Valey
 

It is very nearly always the case that the sequel is a disappointment when compared with the successful original?

Question

And that's the question that players in Hampshire's Test Valley Brass are asking themselves, as the band enters their first senior contest for four years, at the weekend.

"Jaws was a classic, but somehow Jaws 2 didn't match up. Star Trek was primetime viewing, but Star Trek: Next Generation wasn't quite the same hit," said Steve Large, who will conduct the band, in the South West regional contest in Torquay.

Force

In the late 1990's Test Valley Brass were a force to be reckoned with, rising through the sections with podium finishes at Regional and National championships.

Although a few members of that successful group are still involved, many of the new grouping are drawn from the band's enthusiastic youth contingent.

New generation

Steve added: "This is something of a new beginning. A sort of Test Valley Brass — Next Generation. And in entering this weekend's 4th Section contest, we are boldly going where some of us have never gone before!"

This is something of a new beginning. A sort of Test Valley Brass — Next Generation. And in entering this weekend's 4th Section contest, we are boldly going where some of us have never gone before!Test Valley

Chances

As for their chances then? Steve concluded: "This time it's mainly about the experience. We'll find out whether contesting is something we've the appetite for, with a younger group of players.

"It's a tough testpiece and we initially struggled to play it through. But we've persevered. As long as everybody gives it their best shot, I'll be more than content."

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


Stephen Tighe

ARCM, LDBBA, (Dip)PFS.
Adjudicator / Music Director / Arranger


               

 © 2025 4barsrest.com Ltd