*
banner

Downton set for next generation

The Downton Band is getting ready to open its doors to a new generation of young players.

Downton Band
 

The Downton Band is set to launch its exciting new training band in September and is still keen to hear from any young players who want to take part and learn a brass or a percussion instrument.

Launch

The launch will take place on Wednesday September 16th with their first rehearsal at 6.00pm in Downton's band room on Gravel Close, Downton.

Cheap

Downton Musical Director Paul Williams told 4BR: "The new band is open to anyone who wishes to come along and learn how to play an instrument.

We have deliberately tried to make it as cheap — just £1 a week to enjoy expert tuition, a weekly rehearsal, plenty of performance opportunities and the loan of an instrument to take home to practice."

We have deliberately tried to make it as cheap — just £1 a week to enjoy expert tuition, a weekly rehearsal, plenty of performance opportunities and the loan of an instrument to take home to practiceMD, Paul Williams

Help

He added: "The band has been very fortunate to be supported by Wiltshire County Council's Community Grant scheme, Persimmon Homes Community Champions and the People's Postcode Lottery Trust.

This funding has allowed Downton to buy lots of new instruments that are now sitting on shelves waiting for new players!"

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    


Greig Hall

No relegation for Norwegian non payers

March 2 • There will be no relegation to the Fifth Division for the bands who didn't pay their membership fees on time this year — but it is not a precedent for the future.


Blackpool

Results: 2026 North West Regional Championships

March 1 • Titles go to Foden's, Haydock, Lostock Hall, Allerton Brass and Wardle Community Band in Blackpool.


rooms4groups

rooms4gropups ready for Blackpool qualifiers

February 28 • The specialist hotel booking company will be on hand first thing on Monday morning to take the pressure of York and London qualifiers.


Blackpool

York and London on the horizon for North West Area contenders

February 28 • The 2026 Regional Championships get underway in Blackpool on Sunday with 75 taking to the stage at the Winter Gardens but with qualification sights on York and London.


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


Regent Hall Concerts - Royal Greenwich Brass Band

Sunday 1 March • St. Alfege Church. Greenwich Church Street. London SE10 9BJ


Regent Hall Concerts - London Central Fellowship Band

Saturday 7 March • Regent Hall. (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - Regent Hall Band of the Salvation Army

Tuesday 10 March • Regent Hall. (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Dobcross Silver Band

March 2 • Following an exceptionally pleasing 1st result at the recent Area contest (2nd section, 4th place), we invite applications for the position of 2ND BARITONE. We are a friendly, progressive and social band!


West Wycombe Brass Band

March 1 • West Wycombe Brass Band are looking for Horn players, any position. Rehearsals Wednesday 7.45-9.45pm in own band hall. Give us a call or email.


Croy Silver Band

March 1 • Croy Silver Band currently has contest vacancies on Cornet and Percussion, but is always happy to accommodate enthusiastic new players in any section of the band.


Sarah Groarke-Booth

BA (Hons) MA
Conductor, Adjudicator, Compere, Actor


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd