*
banner

Spring Festival feedback wanted

Spring Festival organisers wish to hear from bands with their constructive views about the recent Blackpool contest.

Winter Gardens
 

The organisers of the British Open Spring Festival have informed 4BR that they will welcome feedback from bands about any aspect of the event run in Blackpool last weekend.

Progressive

Contest Controller Frank Hodges told 4BR that Karyn and Martin Mortimer wish to develop the event along progressive lines to benefit competing bands and offer audiences an even more enjoyable contesting experience at the Winter Gardens.

"There is a considerable investment in time and expense in running both the Spring Festival and the British Open," he said.

"The Winter Gardens continues to undergo long term redevelopment, whilst Besson/Buffet Group has announced its continued sponsorship. Once again a new test piece has been commissioned for Symphony Hall, this year from the highly respected composer Stephen Roberts."

as we have said from the outset, nothing is set in stone and certain aspects such as player registration and split draws are open to further progressive developmentFrank Hodges

Aware

He added: "We are aware that certain aspects of the Spring Festival have come under critical scrutiny, but as we have said from the outset, nothing is set in stone and certain aspects such as player registration and split draws are open to further progressive development.”

He concluded: "The 2013 Spring Festival attracted a great deal of support from bands and listeners, and we wish to build on that. Any constructive feedback will be welcomed and acted upon."

Contact:

Please contact Frank Hodges by telephone: 01942 703217

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    


4BR Review

4BR Review — A look back at the RNCM International Brass Band Festival and more

January 28 • Join Iwan and Chris on Thursday evening for a look back at the RNCM Festival as well as looking forward to the Norwegian Nationals in Bergen and more...


Simone Rebello

4BR interview with Simone Rebello

January 28 • 4BR Editor Iwan Fox caught up with Simone Rebello to find out more about the forthcoming RNCM Day of Percussion.


Ulf Rosenberg

4BR interview with EBBA President Ulf Rosenberg

January 28 • 4BR speaks to the EBBA President after the announcement that the 2028 European Championships will not take place in England.


rps aWARDS

Shepherd Group join Moore on RPS shortlist

January 28 • The Shepherd Group and conductor Sean Chandler have nominated for the RPS 'Inspiration Award' — and the banding movement can help them win it with their votes.


Dobcross Silver Band - Whitburn Band

Sunday 1 February • c/o Dobcross Band Club. Platt Lane. Dobcross Saddleworth OL3 5AD


Contest: Norwegian National Brass Band Championships

Friday 6 February • Grieghallen, Bergen, N-5015 N-5015


Contest: Norwegian National Brass Band Championships

Saturday 7 February • Grieghallen, Bergen, N-5015 N-5015


Regent Hall Concerts - Royal Greenwich Brass Band

Friday 27 February • Regent Hall. (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - Oompah Brass XXL

Friday 27 February • Regent Hall. (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Chinnor Silver

January 27 • Our COMMUNITY BAND is meeting again on Monday (2nd) 11 am and we would welcome any players who would like to join us for a friendly,relaxed rehearsal.. All abilities are welcome with a liking for cake and coffee. Blowing with us doesnt impact your no1 band


Cambrian Brass

January 24 • We are a friendly, inclusive and hard-working brass band, welcoming players of all ages and abilities. We are particularly keen to fill our Soprano Cornet, Flugelhorn and EEb Bass positions.


Newtown Silver Band

January 24 • Newtown Silver Band are recruiting a Musical Director. We seek a leader with brass band experience who can motivate and develop players. A charismatic individual who can shape and deliver concert programmes to be enjoyed by both players and audience.


Alwyn Green

LRAM, LTCL
Conductor, composer, arranger, adjudicator, teacher and soloist


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd