*
banner

Concerns over concert futures in North West

One of the most popular venues in the North West may no longer put on brass band concerts unless support increases.

Cornets
 

Concerns are being aired over the future of brass band concerts at one of the most popular venues in the North West, with news that Formby Hall in Atherton in Manchester may no longer consider putting on such events.

All standards

For well over 20 years it has played host to numerous concerts given on the third Sunday of each month by bands of all standards, although falling support over recent years has now possibly put that at risk.

Host

Tony Smith of the Tyldesley Band who will perform at the venue on three occasions in 2014, told 4BR: "Formby Hall has hosted many of the top banding names as well as those in lower sections, and the variety that has been on show as always been its unique facet.

It has been an important venue in the calendar of several bands, but it has been gaining an ever diminishing bunch of followers."

If we are not to lose this important brass band concert venue them I urge people to come along and support some great community bands in performanceTony Smith

Come along

He added: “If we are not to lose this important brass band concert venue them I urge people to come along and support some great community bands in performance.”

The ‘pay at the door’ concerts start at 7.30pm at the hall on Alder Street, Atherton, Manchester, M46 9EY, and there are always hot drinks and bar open for business.

Bands performing this year include Farnworth & Walkden, Flixton, Wigan Youth & Intermediate Bands, Tyldesley, VBS Poynton and Roberts Bakery.

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.


Michael Bennett

BSc, RNCM (Perf)
Performer, Composer, Arranger, Teacher


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd