*
banner

Samuel heads to Blackburn & Darwen

After a successful tenure as MD at VBS Poynton, Neil Samuel takes over the reins at Blackburn & Darwen.

Neil Samuel
  Neil Samuel will now be seen in action with Blackburn & Darwen Band

Blackburn & Darwen Band has announced that following the departure of Huw Thomas, they have appointed Neil Samuel as their new Musical Director. He makes the move after enjoying a highly successful spell at the helm with Vernon Building Society (Poynton) Band.

High quality

Band Chairperson Rhiannon Grant told 4BR: "We had a good number of high quality applicants for the post and we would like to sincerely thank everyone for their interest.

However, after leading us through a number of hard-working rehearsals and enjoyable concert performances during December, we are delighted to announce that Neil has accepted the position of Musical Director with us."

Neil has enjoyed many successes with bands in the North West area and we are confident that will continue as he takes us forward to the Regional contest in Blackpool next year and beyondBand Chairperson Rhiannon Grant

Many successes

Rhiannon added: "Neil has enjoyed many successes with bands in the North West area and we are confident that will continue as he takes us forward to the Regional contest in Blackpool next year and beyond."

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    


Brabbins

Childs and Brabbins to showcase Mealor Concerto

November 3 • Paul Mealor's 'Euphonium Concerto' is to be performed this Friday in Swansea by David Childs under the baton of Martyn Brabbins with the National Orchestra of Wales.


Maurice Andre

Saunas and butter — what made Andre the giant so great...

November 3 • If you ever wondered what the secret of Maurice Andre's success was — then an article from 1987 revealed all about his morning practice regime...


Prof Childs

Childs enjoys latest Japanese trip

November 3 • Black Dyke Band's Director of Music has just returned from his latest musical trip to Japan.


AoBBA

Yorkshire offer for aspiring adjudicators

November 3 • The Yorkshire Regional Championships have teamed up with the Association of Brass Band Adjudicators for an experience day for aspiring judges.


Dobcross Silver Band - Remembrance Concert

Sunday 8 November • Dobcross Band Club. Platt Lane. Dobcross. Oldham OL3 5AD


Regent Hall Concerts - Band of the RAF Regiment Brass Ensemble

Friday 20 November • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Bilton Silver Rugby Band - Bilton Silver President's Concert

Friday 27 November • St George's Church, St Johns Avenue, Rugby CV22 5HR


West Yorkshire Police Band - Mid Yorkshire Breast Cancer Support

Saturday 28 November • Cluntergate Centre, Horbury WF4 5DA


Newstead Brass - The Snowman - Live

Saturday 5 December • Forest Town Arena. Clipstone Road West, Forest Town. Mansfield NG19 0EE


Chinnor Silver

November 3 • Our COMMUNITY BAND are meeting again on Monday (9th) and we welcome players of all standards who enjoy a relaxed and friendly rehearsal.. Rehearsals are held in our bandroom at 11am and it is all FREE including the cake and coffee.


Bilton Silver Rugby Band

November 2 • Under the leadership of Musical Director, Jack Fisher, the band requires a percussionist. With an expanding schedule of events, including our sell-out themed concerts, the band is based in our own, purpose built, band hall in Bilton.


Bilton Silver Rugby Band

November 2 • Under the leadership of Musical Director, Jack Fisher, the band requires an Eb bass player. With an expanding schedule of events, including our sell-out themed concerts, the band is based in our own, purpose built, band hall in Bilton.


Howard J Evans

MA (Dist), Mus.B (hons), ARCM (hons), LRAM, LTCL, PGCE
Conductor, composer, arranger, tutor and pianist


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd