*
banner

First chords of return in Wales?

Members of Brecon Concert Band were able to enjoy an open air rehearsal this week — but there is still no sign of concert halls reopening in Wales.

Brecon
  The members of the band observed the appropriate social distancing and health and safety guidelines

The first fledgling signs of communal music making taking the first steps of getting back to some sort of normality in Wales took place in Brecon on Monday evening (3rd August)

Members of the Brecon Town Concert Band worked alongside their local town council to enable them to hold an open air rehearsal in a car park near to the town's theatre.

Outdoor

Up to 30 people are allowed to congregate with appropriate social and physical distancing measures put in place in the open air in Wales from Monday 3rd August, with the ensemble fully observing the stated requirements "to take all reasonable measures to mitigate any risks."

Concert halls

However, according to the Welsh Government's latest Coronavirus guidelines and regulations, there is no date given for the reopening of theatres or concert halls.

In addition, people should not gather indoors with anyone who is not a member of their household (or extended household) unless they have a good reason.

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    


Podcast

Festival focus for 4BR Review podcast

January 14 • Join the live podcast broadcast this evening with Iwan Fox, Chris Thomas and Dr David Thornton as they preview the attractions at the forthcoming RNCM International Brass Band Festival.


RBC

Area test-piece focus at RBC Brass Day

January 14 • Players, conductors and brass band supporters can enjoy a full day of Third and Fourth Section test-piece workshops in Birmingham — with a Thomas Fountain bonus.


RNCM Festival

Cymbals to soundtracks on offer at RNCM Percussion Day

January 14 • There will be a full day of percussion attractions on offer at the RNCM in February.


Desford

Desford landmark with latest Vietnam tour

January 14 • The 2025 National Champion will head to Vietnam as they mark their 20th overseas tour.


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


Cheltenham Silver Band

January 14 • Tenor Horn, Bass, Percussion (all positions negotiable) in our 3rd Section Band.. . As we prepare for the West of England Areas with our professional conductor, Neil Brownless, and the 2026 summer season, we are looking to welcome new members.


Chinnor Silver

January 13 • New Year,New Section,New MD and for you New Band?. We are looking for a Tuned Percussionist for the areas and beyond.. Rehearsals are on a Wednesday evening 8-10 in our own bandroom (so no setting up each time).


Chinnor Silver

January 13 • Our COMMUNITY BAND is meeting again on Monday (19th) at 11am in our own bandroom.. We welcome players of all abilities to join us for a relaxed,friendly rehearsal with cake and coffee thrown in all free.. Playing with us doesn’t affect your own band


Simon Gresswell


Conductor, adjudicator, tutor, tuba specialist


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd