*
banner

Brass Factor and brass raiser for charity

Elland Silver and Wakefield Metropolitan lead the entertainment way as the unique Brass Factor contests once again raise funds for charitable causes.

Brass Fatcor
  Elland Silver Band stole the show at Wetherby

The unique Brass Factor series of entertainment events kicked off recently at The Engine Shed in Wetherby and The Picturedrome in Holmfirth, when six talented bands competed for the coveted title of 'Brass Factor Winner'.

Celebs

Playing a 20-minute set each, the contenders were evaluated by a panel of musical experts and celebrity judges, including former snooker player Willie Thorne, Emmerdale soap star John Bowe and England international cricketer Ryan Sidebottom.

Elland Silver stole the Wetherby show (above) whilst Wakefield Metropolitan was victorious in Holmfirth.

Charity support

Brass Factor founder Alex Bray is keen to support charities and since its inception, the events have raised approximately £15,000 for worthy causes, with this year's contests raising a further £600 for children's charities, Martin House Hospice and the Huddersfield Town Foundation.

Judge and BBC Radio Leeds 'Yorkshire Brass' presenter, David Hoyle told 4BR: "The talent at Brass Factor this year was astonishing, particularly the youth musicians, who really demonstrated their exceptional abilities."

The talent at Brass Factor this year was astonishing, particularly the youth musicians, who really demonstrated their exceptional abilitiesJudge and BBC Radio Leeds 'Yorkshire Brass' presenter, David Hoyle

Huge success

Meanwhile, Alex added: "The two events were a huge success. The venues were packed out and the celebrity judges were exceptional. They provided real character to the evening, particularly Wille Thorne who did a sterling entertainment job, and the audience certainly played their part too by cheering and jeering the judges throughout the night.

We sold more tickets this year than ever and everyone involved is really pleased with how both events turned out. Preparations are already under way for next year."

Find out more

To learn more about Brass Factor go to: http://brassfactor.com

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    


Fodens

Foden's regional reach out for 2026

September 17 • If you want some of the Foden's Area Championship winning formula to rub off on you, then why not sign up for some early test-piece prep.


Brighouse

Brighouse principal is lead off for Banding Together

September 17 • In a new PR profile initiative for the event, Tom Smith talks about his link to the National Championships at the Royal Albert Hall.


Norway

Concerto test for Norwegian elite

September 17 • Flavours of Rumba, Ravel and riotous ostriches courtesy of Derek Bourgeois will test the Elite Division contenders at the 2026 Norwegian National Championships.


National Championships

2026 Regional Championship test-piece announced

September 17 • Works by Martin Ellerby, Andrew Wainwright, Philip Harper, Gordon Langford and Eric Ball will test bands in their qualification bids for the Albert Hall and Cheltenham next year.


Petworth Town Band - Petworth Town Band at Petworth Heritage weekend

Saturday 20 September • Centre of Petworth Town GU28 OAH


Cheltenham Silver Band - Holst Birthday Concert

Saturday 20 September • All Saints Church, All Saints Road, Pittville, Cheltenham GL52 2HG


Dobcross Silver Band - Milnrow Band

Sunday 21 September • c/o Dobcross Band Club. Platt Lane. Dobcross Saddleworth OL3 5AD


Regent Hall Concerts - The Band of the Grenadier Guards Big Band

Friday 26 September • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. WC1 2DJ W1C2DJ


Brass Bands England - The Brass Band Conference

Saturday 27 September • Redhills Durham Miners Hall, Durham DH1 4BE


Haverhill Silver Band

September 17 • Haverhill Silver Band (Championship Section) seeks a FRONT ROW CORNET (position negotiable). This is a superb opportunity to join East Anglia's premier brass band for the L&SC area contest, the Senior Cup, Whit Friday and beyond.


Cheltenham Silver Band

September 16 • Required:. Musical Director : Cheltenham Silver Academy Band Following the relocation of our current conductor we are looking for a progressive, passionate and dedicated individual to lead our Academy Band, and to support our continued improvement.


Chinnor Silver

September 16 • We need a Bass player (either Bb or Eb) and a percussionist to join our happy team! The band is promoted to the first section in 2026 and were also 2025 Second section National Finalists. We rehearse on Wednesday evenings in our own bandroom in Chinnor


Nicholas B. Hudson

FTCL LGSMD (Hons)
Musician | Trombonist | Educator


               

 © 2025 4barsrest.com Ltd