*
banner

Old treasures unearthed for Besses Boys anniversary

Some wonderful memorabilia will be on show at the special Besses Boys' Band 75th anniversary concert later this year

Besses Boys
  Some wonderful pictures will be on display at the special gala concert and exhibition

To celebrate the 75th anniversary of the formation of Besses Boys' Band, the organisation is putting together an exhibition, which will feature images, memorabilia, trophies and regalia that until now have been hidden away for decades.

Formed in 1943, Besses Boys' Band was created as a feeder band to the senior Besses o' th' Barn Band, which this year celebrates its 200th anniversary.

Worldwide success

Over the 75 years the band has enjoyed worldwide success performing in competitions and concerts, including winning the National Youth Championships of Great Britain and making both European and Australian tours.

Former members of the band have also gone on to enjoy successful careers with the likes of the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic and Halle Orchestras, as well as the professional British Army bands of the Irish, Welsh and Coldstream Guards.

Rich heritage

Band spokesperson Bradley Hirst told 4BR: "The band is proud to be celebrating its 75th birthday.

Our rich heritage and successes are a result of our member's commitment and to all who have supported the band, and donated their time to this great organisation over the years.

The exhibition will be a perfect way to celebrate that history, while inspiring many more years of music making to come."

The exhibition will be a perfect way to celebrate that history, while inspiring many more years of music making to comeBand spokesperson Bradley Hirst

Gala concert

The exhibition will be on display at the commemorative gala concert at the Victoria Halls in Bolton, on October 13th.

Former players and supporters are encouraged to get in touch if they wish to lend or contribute items to the display.

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    


Tim Mutum

The Brass Band Hall of Fame gets published

June 14 • Brass band historian Tim Mutum's new book provides essential portraits of nearly 140 brass band conductors, players and personalities.


Groningen

Result: 2026 Dutch Open

June 14 • Local favourites Provinciale Brassband Groningen reclaims the Dutch Open title on a day of double delight.


Dr Martin

Dr Martin postpones contest until 2027

June 14 • The Dr Martin Wainstones Cup Contest has been postponed this year, but will return with a date already fixed for 2027.


swbba

Entries now open for SWBBA Contest in Torquay

June 14 • The popular own choice event takes place in November — and entries are now open.


Regent Hall Concerts - Take 5 Brass Quintet

Friday 12 June • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Sherborne Town Band - Celebrating the Music of Malcolm Bennett

Sunday 14 June • Venue-Mark Village Hall, Vole Road, Mark-TA9 4NY. . TA9 4NY


Barnsley Brass - Black Dyke Band

Thursday 25 June • St Mary's Church. Church Street. Barnsley S70 2AH


Regent Hall Concerts - Junior Guildhall Brass Band

Friday 26 June • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - The Royal Sackbut Collective

Friday 26 June • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Cambrian Brass

June 14 • We are always happy to hear from anyone interested in joining our friendly, supportive band - whether you are returning to banding, looking for a new challenge, or moving to Aberystwyth for university.


Chinnor Silver

June 13 • We are looking for a Bb TUBA player to join our friendly,enthusiastic,progressive 1st section band.. Rehearsals are on a Wednesday and held in our own bandroom.. We have a varied but realistic calendar planned with possible overseas trip in 2027


CLEETHORPES BAND CIO

June 12 • Cleethorpes Band are seeking a Musical Director


Andy Wareham

BMus (Hons), MMus (Hons)
Conductor, Composer, Brass Tutor, Musicologist


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd