*
banner

Cobb set for Tomlinson Concerto at Birmingham Brass Fest

Philip Cobb will be performing the iconic Ernest Tomlinson 'Cornet Concerto' in the heart of Birmingham this weekend.

Phil Cobb
  Philip Cobb will perform the iconic Ernest Tomlinson Cornet Concerto

A showcase performance of the awesome Ernest Tomlinson 'Cornet Concerto' by Philip Cobb will be the centrepiece of this Sunday's (19th January — 7.00pm) Royal Birmingham Conservatoire 'Brass Fest' event.

World class artists

The LSO Principal Trumpet player will be one of a number of world class artists featured throughout Sunday and Monday (20th), with Philip joined by the likes of Sarah Willis of the Berlin Philharmonic as well as fellow LSO brass section principal, Peter Moore on trombone.

Also on show will be Onyx Brass, Connaught Brass, Tim Jackson, Alan Thomas, Graham Sibley, plus the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire Brass Band who will accompany Philip in his performance of a work that was first performed by the legendary Maurice Murphy at the Royal Albert Hall in 1974.

And plenty Moore

The Sunday evening concert will see Philip joined by Peter Moore who will showcase another iconic work — Gordon Langford's 'Rhapsody for Trombone', whilst the band under the direction of Ian Porthouse will open with 'Intrada: Ein' Feste Burg' with two of the Conservatoire's most promising students sharing the performance of Peter Graham's 'Baritone Concerto'.

Ian told 4BR that Philip's visit for a rehearsal on the piece has already created a huge buzz amongst his students. "It's not often you see jaws fall to the floor, but this was one of them,"he said.

Great opportunity

"What a player. I know the Tomlinson piece very well from my days as player, but Philip handles it so easily and with such panache.

This is a great opportunity for brass band players to come hear one of the world's great brass musicians perform — and you get Peter Moore on brilliant form as well for the price of ticket! If you are anywhere near Birmingham, book a ticket and come along — it is sure to be a memorable night."

In addition to the concert, a 1 day pass ticket will also enable listeners to enjoy a 'Side by Side' masterclass directed by Ian Porthouse and featuring Peter Moore; a Q&A session with Sarah Willis, a lunchtime recital by Connaught Brass, a choice of afternoon masterclasses with Philip, Sarah, Peter, Alan Thomas and Graham Sibley and a massed blow event.

This is a great opportunity for brass band players to come hear one of the world's great brass musicians perform — and you get Peter Moore on brilliant form as well for the price of ticket! Ian Porthouse

Tickets

More information: www.bcu.ac.uk/brassfest20

Festival pass
Festival Pass £25 (two days)
1 Day Pass £15
Under 18s free with a paying adult

Royal Birmingham Conservatoire, 200 Jennens Road, Birmingham, B4 7XR
Box Office 0121 331 5909 or www.bcu.ac.uk/concerts

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    


Megan Bousfield

4BR Friday interview with Megan Bousfield

January 9 • 4BR Editor Iwan Fox talks to NYBBGB Conductor Competition finalist Megan Bousfield.


Yorkshire

Yorkshire Championship schedule confirmed

January 9 • There will be two days of exciting Yorkshire banding battles in Huddersfield to enjoy.


Dai Thomas

Tredegar look to new business lead for 150th anniversary

January 9 • Welsh champions will take a new approach to their business outlook as their celebrate their 150th anniversary this year.


Next Step Films

Compilation album on offer from NXTOD

January 9 • There are plenty of highlights to enjoy from 2025 — and its all free from the NXTOD media platform.


Newstead Brass - Brett Baker

Saturday 17 January • St Wilfrid's Church, . Kirkby-in-Ashfield NG17 8LA


The Hepworth Band - New Year Concert

Sunday 25 January • Christ Church, New Mill, Holmfirth HD9 7ER


Contest: Norwegian National Brass Band Championships

Friday 6 February • Grieghallen, Bergen, N-5015 N-5015


Contest: Norwegian National Brass Band Championships

Saturday 7 February • Grieghallen, Bergen, N-5015 N-5015


Contest: London & Southern Counties Regional Championships

Saturday 21 March • Arts & Leisure Centre, Lytton Way, Stevenage SG1 1LZ


Putney and Wimbledon Brass Band

January 8 • Following our promotion to the 2nd section we are looking for a percussionist to do a bit of bing bonging on the timps for the regionals in March. We are a lovely band - everyone says so - so please get in touch. Rehearsals Weds from 1930 in Putney.


Mid Rhondda Band

January 6 • Mid Rhondda Band are currently looking for a trombone player and percussionists to join the team. We are a friendly, welcoming 3rd section band working towards competing in the Welsh Area in March. We also have a variety of events booked for 2026.


The Marple Band

January 6 • Bb Bass and Tuned Percussionist vacancies to join our fabulous band. We are a friendly, ambitious 2nd Section band, starting an exciting new year.


Ian Holmes

BA (hons), PGDip (RCM), ARCM, ALCM
Conductor, piano accompanist and educator


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd