*
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    


4BR review

4BR Review podcast — National Final retrospective

October 14 • Join the live podcast on Wednesday evening to look back at a memorable Albert Hall contest.


National Band of New Zealand

New Zealand names 2026 brass band All Blacks

October 14 • The players who will represent the nation as their National Band have been announced.


Coleridge

Besses help mark Coleridge-Taylor anniversary

October 14 • Besses o' th' Barn Band has helped to provide a timely celebration of the life and music of the pioneering composer black composer Samuel Coleridge-Taylor.


BrookWright Music

BrookWright Music: Christmas for Two

October 14 • Christmas for Two — 70 Traditional Christmas Songs & Carols for two alike instruments


Regent Hall Concerts - Regent Hall Band of the Salvation Army

Tuesday 14 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. WC1 2DJ W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - Berkeley Brass

Friday 17 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. WC1 2DJ W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - Wigfield Brass Quintet

Friday 17 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. WC1 2DJ W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - Regent Brass

Friday 17 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. WC1 2DJ W1C2DJ


Regent Brass - Brett Baker

Friday 17 October • The Salvation Army (Regent Hall), 275 Oxford Street, London WC1 2DJ


Dobcross Silver Band

October 13 • Currently 3rd Section National Champions and subsequent promotion to SECOND SECTION in 2026, we aim to add another PERCUSSIONIST to our award winning section. Dynamic all rounder preferred. You will love it here! Great rehearsals, gigs and socials!


Dobcross Silver Band

October 13 • Current 3rd Section National Champions and pending promotion to 2ND SECTION. We require the services of a competent PRINCIPAL CORNET PLAYER. Great opportunity for someone to show their skills and leadership qualities! Enjoyable events and socials!. Contact


Stretford Band

October 11 • Stretford Band (Manchester) has a terrific new MD. Now it needs you! We need bass, trombone and percussion but will welcome anyone who wants to play popular music without the stress of competing. Any ability any age.. Hope to see you soon.


Alan Fernie

DRSAM, Dip.NCOS
Arranger, composer, adjudicator, conductor


               

 © 2025 4barsrest.com Ltd