*
banner

Death of Dennis Todd

The death has been announced of one of the most popular players and supporters of the banding movement in the North of England.

Dennis Todd
  Dennis Todd was greatly respected as a player

The brass band movement will be saddened to hear of the death of the popular cornet player and former music retailer Dennis Todd.

Dennis passed away peacefully on the morning of 8th July after a long and brave battle with cancer. At the time of his death he was the principal cornet of his home town band of Jayess Newbiggin.

The title of legend is often over used, but in the case of Dennis it is thoroughly deservedBand Chairman, Tony Griffiths

Gentleman

One of the true gentlemen of the banding movement, he was both a highly respected player and businessman — mixing his love of brass banding with his equal love of chatting to friends and customers in equal measure.

Throughout his career he commanded huge respect for his playing ability — first with Newbiggin and Bedlington Salvation Army, then Greggs Bakery, Easington Colliery, and latterly on his return Jayess Newbiggin.

He was an inspiration to countless players past, present and future, with a steely core of professionalism hidden underneath a sparkling sense of humour, cheeky smile and plenty of stories and tales of the banding world.

Legend

Band Chairman, Tony Griffiths told 4BR: "I first heard Dennis play with the Salvation Army band, and then listened in awe as he, along with Jim Shepherd performed with the Northumberland County Brass Band.

The title of legend is often over used, but in the case of Dennis it is thoroughly deserved."

He added: "Dennis also gave unstinting support for many local musical groups and performers, and will be remembered by all who knew him for his warmth, charm and unique personality. He will be greatly missed as a player, bandsman, and loyal friend.

Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with all his family and many friends throughout the banding world at this sad time."

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    


Brighouse

Result: 2025 Brighouse March & Hymn Tune Contest

July 7 • Elland lead the way in claiming the silverware in Brighouse on the weekend


Hammonds

Result: 2025 Dr Martin Wainstone Cup

July 7 • Hammonds gain a healthy boost to their their bank balance as they take the honours in commanding style.


4BR interview

4BR Podcast Interview: Episode 4

July 6 • 4BR Editor Iwan Fox talks to social media content creator George Reece to find out more about his cool look at why brass bands compete against each other...


Wellinton

Results: 2025 New Zealand National Championships

July 6 • Wellington Brass continues its national domination in Christchurch, with section honours going to St Kilda, Levin & Districts, New Brighton Silver an


Longridge Band - Anniversary Concert

Saturday 12 July • Longridge Civic Hall, 1 Calder Avenue, Longridge, Preston PR3 3HT


Haverhill Silver Band - Proms Concert - St Ives

Saturday 12 July • Hill Rise Park, St Ives PE27 6SP


The Hepworth Band - A Summer Proms Concert

Sunday 20 July • Hepworth United Sports Club, Far Lane, Hepworth, Holmfirth. HD9 1RN


Petworth Town Band - Ebernoe Horn Fair

Friday 25 July • Ebernoe Cricket Ground GU28 9LD


Petworth Town Band - Dorset House School Fete

Saturday 26 July • Dorset House School RH20 1PB


Petworth Town Band

July 7 • Petworth Town Band have vacancies for CORNETS, TUBA and BASS TROMBONE. We are an enthusiastic band with a full calendar of engagements. We would welcome you to join us and our inspirational MD Paula Streeter.


Epping Forest Band

July 7 • Epping Forest band have a vacancy for solo horn. We are a friendly 3rd section band with a variety of gigs through out the year. We have our own band hut with close to links with London Underground central line and the M11 motorway.


Concert Brass Poynton

July 4 • Concert Brass Poynton: No Contesting - Not a learners Band. Rehearse on Wednesday Evenings between 8.00 to 10.00pm (short comfort break). We seek a front row cornet and a Tenor Horn and A Tenor Trombone and Bass Trom too..


Stephen Phillips

MA, BA (Homs), PQSI, NPQH, PGCE
Conductor, Band Trainer, Educator, Compere


               

 © 2025 4barsrest.com Ltd