*
banner

Sykes leads mid- winter banding break in Devon

The Sykes family recently led a great mid-winter workshop break in Devon.

Steve Sykes
 

The 15th Mid-Winter Brass Workshop, organised and promoted by the South West Brass Band Association, was held recently at the West Buckland School in North Devon.

Popular

The popular event attracted over 90 brass musicians aged from 9 – 70 plus from 19 member bands, receiving over ten hours intensive tuition from all the members of the Sykes family — Steve, Joanne, Stephen and Carlton.

The course ended with a fine concert presentation which entertained a packed audience — including a delighted Mayor of South Molton.

Award

The Goff Richards Award presented by Sue Richards went to joint recipients Ellie Joy (Launceston Town) and Fiona Harvey (Sidmouth Town).

Wonderful

Secretary, Brian Elliott told 4BR: "It was a wonderful event, and the Association’s Executive Committee is sincerely grateful to Kirklees Music, Bandleader Publications, Obrasso-Verlag AG, PLC Music, Studio Music Company, Perfect Pitch — and Steve Sykes and his family.

Our thanks also go to associate sponsor, T T Coaches of North Devon."

The popular event attracted over 90 brass musicians aged from 9 – 70 plus from 19 member bands4BR

Busy year

The Workshop began another busy year for the Association, which will feature the Weston-super-Mare Own Choice Contest in May, as well as the Exmouth Festival, 67th Annual Championships and Conducting Workshop to come.

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    


Italian Brass Band

Italian Brass Band adds to conductor experience

October 11 • The Italian Brass Band has played its part in giving conductors a very different musical experience.


West Wales BBA

Report & Results: 2026 West Wales BBA Festival

October 11 • Parc & Dare continues its run of prize-winning form as Markham & District, Cwmtawe, Gwaun-Cae-Gurwen and Llanharan & Bryncae Brass claim the honours in Cefneithin.


Elland

All ages of playing experience showcase excellence in Elland

October 11 • There was a super day of competitive solo, duet and quartet action on show at Elland Silver Band's popular event.


Stephen Cobb

Cobb to lead Kingdom Triumphant workshop

October 11 • Dr Stephen Cobb will lead a workshop on Eric Ball's iconic work — and its open to everyone to be part of for free.


Regent Hall Concerts - Regent Brass

Saturday 10 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Hathersage Band - Hathersage Village Autumn Concert

Saturday 10 October • Hathersage Methodist Church, Main Road, Hathersage S32 1BB


Garforth Brass - Annual Chairman's Charity Concert

Saturday 10 October • Miners Welfare Hall. 56 Main Street. Garforth . Leeds. LS25 1AA LS25 1AA


Bedford Town Band - Autumn Concert also featuring our Academy

Saturday 10 October • Putnoe Heights Church. Putnoe Heights. Bedford MK41 8EB


Regent Hall Concerts - Trafalgar Brass

Thursday 15 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Tintwistle Band

October 11 • We are looking for a repiano cornet player to help complete the team. We are a second section band and rehearse Monday and Thursday 8-10pm at our own bandroom on Old Road in Tintwistle. We perform a variety of concerts and contests all year round.


Epping Forest Band

October 8 • Euphonium and solo horn wanted to join our friendly sociable 2nd section band. Based in Essex with close links to the M11 and the underground central line. Instrument's provided of required


Bedford Town Band

October 8 • Bedford Town Band are looking to recruit a Solo trombone and Repiano cornet . We are playing at the Wychavon Contest in a few weeks and are looking to be in the frame at the 1st Section Regionals . Rehearsals Thursday 7.45 at Castle Newnham School.


Jason M Smith


Band Trainer (Contest Preparation), Conductor


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd