*
banner

Sustainable progress made in Wales

The new man at the head of Welsh banding believes significant progress has been made in the setting up of a national body for the Principality.

 

Solid and sustainable progress has been made to secure the future of the fledgling national body of Welsh banding, according to its Chairman Iestyn Davies.

Milestone

Talking exclusively to 4BR, he revealed that its first milestone has been achieved, with the official launch of Brass Band Forum Wales (Fforwm Bandiau Press Cymru) set to take place at the Senedd of the National Assembly for Wales in Cardiff Bay on February 21st next year.

"We have received confirmation from the Presiding Officer of the National Assembly that we are able to utilise the iconic venue for a high profile launch," he said.

"That in itself is a significant sign of progress, but even more important has been the support and encouragement that has been forthcoming from all levels of banding both in Wales and beyond."

The strength of Welsh banding comes from its grass roots and we want to make sure our work is transparent and proactiveIestyn Davies

Further steps

Iestyn also revealed that the individual members of Forum will meet in the near future to implement further steps and to look at whether or not the Forum should formalise the structure of a sustainable national body for Welsh banding.

He added: "Since the decision to set up the body was made last month we have continued to take small but significant steps. We are committed to ensure that all levels of Welsh banding are fully represented. The Forum has clear aims and objectives and will ensure that Wales has a strong and purposeful presence in the broader banding community."

Website

"That progress will shortly see the setting up of an interactive website presence that will allow people to air their thoughts and opinions on all aspects of Welsh banding," he said.

"The strength of Welsh banding comes from its grass roots and we want to make sure our work is transparent and proactive."

Major role

Iestyn also revealed that Wales was also ready to play a major role on a national and international banding platform too.

"The Forum is committed to work with autonomous National bodies – both at home and abroad and to become an integral part of the European Brass Band Association. With continued unprecedented success at all contesting levels we believe Wales has an important role to play, and we will aim to ensure we do that in full."

Appointees

There are currently seven individual appointees on the Forum, headed by Iestyn Davies. He is joined by Gareth Ritter, Austin Davies, Graham Howe, Charles White, Pedr Roberts, Gwyn Evans and Alan F Williams.

"The support of these highly committed individuals has been essential to the growing success of the body. Each is playing an active role on a local level to support bands in their region."

Committed

Iestyn concluded. "Everyone associated with the Brass Band Forum Wales is fully committed to help provide a dynamic future for Welsh banding."

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    


Renfrew Burgh

Renfrew thrill locals ahead of final prep for Cheltenham

July 24 • Renfrew Burgh Band were joined by Sheona White to showcase their talents ahead of the final leg of fund-raising for their trip to the National Finals.


Patricio Cosentino

Cosentino to bring brass banding link to Bogota

July 24 • The Besson tuba artist is hoping that a banding foothold will be established during his visit to 'Brass Week' at the Universidad Distrital Francisco.


Cumbria

Youth places up for grabs in Cumbria

July 23 • There are still places to be filled for a cracking youth led course at Sedburgh School next month.


Riverside Youth Band

Warm welcome and hot playing for Riverside Youth

July 23 • Young players wishing to take their first steps on their banding journey are being encouraged to give things a buzz with Riverside Youth Band.


Petworth Town Band - Ebernoe Horn Fair

Friday 25 July • Ebernoe Cricket Ground GU28 9LD


Petworth Town Band - Dorset House School Fete

Saturday 26 July • Dorset House School RH20 1PB


Haverhill Silver Band - A Nightingale Sang... (an evening concert)

Saturday 2 August • Foakes Hall, Dunmow CM6 1DG


Haverhill Silver Band - East Anglian Beer & Cider Festival

Sunday 24 August • St Edmundsbury Cathedral, Bury St Edmunds IP33 1QX


Haverhill Silver Band - Concert in Saffron Hall

Wednesday 27 August • Saffron Hall, Audley End Road, Saffron Walden, Essex CB11 4UH


Bilton Silver Rugby Band

July 23 • Moving to the West Midlands this autumn or fancy a change of bandroom scenery? . The band are looking to recruit a 2nd Euphonium and a Kit Percussionist to help us with our varied and ever expanding range of events.


Bilton Silver Rugby Band

July 23 • 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.


Tewit Silver Band

July 23 • Tewit Silver Band is looking for a talented and committed Solo Cornet player to join our dedicated team as we build towards the Scottish Open 25 and beyond. Based in Huby- between Leeds, Bradford, and Harrogate, 5 mins walk from Weeton Station.


Stephen Phillips

MA, BA (Homs), PQSI, NPQH, PGCE
Conductor, Band Trainer, Educator, Compere


               

 © 2025 4barsrest.com Ltd