*
banner

Death of David Owen

The death of the popular and much respected 'Tojo' has been announced to a shocked Welsh banding movement.

David Owen
 

The death has been reported to 4BR of one of the most popular Welsh bandsmen, former Point of Ayr bass player David Owen.

Known throughout Welsh banding as ‘Tojo’, he died suddenly at the beginning of the week.

Huge shock

A spokesperson told 4BR: "This comes as a huge shock to many who knew him, as it was only 18 months since the early death of his best friend and fellow Point of Ayr Bb Bass player Jim Mealor."

David played Eb bass for Point of Ayr for most of his career, but way always eager to help out neighbouring bands when they needed it. More recently he has been a key member of Northop Band.

He was also a familiar and much respected presence at band contests throughout Wales and beyond.

Tributes

Tributes have already poured in, with many recalling a man of great generosity, friendship, a mentor, a player blessed with both a huge sound and laughter and role model. He will be missed by all who had the pleasure and honour of knowing him.

Tributes have already poured in, with many recalling a man of great generosity, friendship, a mentor, a player blessed with both a huge sound and laughter and role model4BR

Service

The funeral is at 12 noon at Ffynnongroyw Church on 27th December. A band of former players and associates with play at the service.

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    


Youth Fest

Brass sounds fill the air at Youth Fest in Barnet

July 8 • BBE's 'Brass Fest' event saw over 200 young players provide fantastic entertainment and great music making in Barnet.


Steve Phillips

Central England lead for Phillips

July 8 • The experienced Steve Phillips has become the new Musical Director of Brass Band of Central England.


Anthony Smith

New solo euphonium at Cory

July 8 • Anthony Smith becomes the new solo euphonium player at the Brass in Concert champion ahead of their British Open challenge.


Gota

Gota goodbye to Thomsen

July 8 • The successful musical partnership between Swedish champion Gota Brass Band and conductor Michael Thomsen has come to an end.


Longridge Band - Anniversary Concert

Saturday 12 July • Longridge Civic Hall, 1 Calder Avenue, Longridge, Preston PR3 3HT


Haverhill Silver Band - Proms Concert - St Ives

Saturday 12 July • Hill Rise Park, St Ives PE27 6SP


The Hepworth Band - A Summer Proms Concert

Sunday 20 July • Hepworth United Sports Club, Far Lane, Hepworth, Holmfirth. HD9 1RN


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


Petworth Town Band

July 7 • Petworth Town Band have vacancies for CORNETS, TUBA and BASS TROMBONE. We are an enthusiastic band with a full calendar of engagements. We would welcome you to join us and our inspirational MD Paula Streeter.


Epping Forest Band

July 7 • Epping Forest band have a vacancy for solo horn. We are a friendly 3rd section band with a variety of gigs through out the year. We have our own band hut with close to links with London Underground central line and the M11 motorway.


Concert Brass Poynton

July 4 • Concert Brass Poynton: No Contesting - Not a learners Band. Rehearse on Wednesday Evenings between 8.00 to 10.00pm (short comfort break). We seek a front row cornet and a Tenor Horn and A Tenor Trombone and Bass Trom too..


Jenny Gartside

Bsc Hons
Jeweller, brass band themed jewellery and pin badges


               

 © 2025 4barsrest.com Ltd