*
banner

All smiles as bands gain Crowdfunder backing

Over 60 bands have had their coffers boosted to the tune over £80,000 plus as BBE backed Crowdfunder initiative proves to be huge hit.

sYKES
  The smile says it all...

The Brass Bands England backed #SaveOurBrassBands Crowdfunder Campaign has already helped over 60 community based bands to raise over £80,000 in much needed funds.

Huge success

The initiative which is backed by celebrity baritone player, model and broadcaster Melanie Sykes (above) was launched on November 17th and has proved to be a huge success at a time when bands have been unable to undertake their usual festive fund raising activities to back their summer income streams.

Hosted by Crowdfunder providing coaching free of charge, the #SaveOurBrassBands campaign has followed the same blueprint of success undertaken by the likes of #SaveOurVenues and #SaveOurTheatres, which have raised over £3 million and £1.3 million respectively.

Brass Bands that have joined the campaign have come from all corners of the UK, from Durham to Bournemouth, Gloucestershire to Hull — and at all levels, Championship Section to Youth.

High profile ambassador

Brass Bands England was delighted that Melanie Sykes agreed to become the high profile ambassador for the campaign which she has actively promoted herself through her own social media platforms.

Melanie commented: "For me, being in a brass band meant spending time with my family, being part of a community, learning how to present myself, exercise a bit of showmanship and, in competition, how to handle my nerves!"

The Crowdfunder Campaign has already helped over 60 community based bands to raise over £80,000 in much needed funds4BR

Great ideas

To supplement their fund raising activities many bands are offering a range of thoughtful rewards, which make for really special Christmas gifts for loved ones who've had a tough year, such as Shrewton Silver Band who are offering to perform Carols in front of your house (region specific) for a donation of £10.

Find out more

To find out more about the campaign and help support local community brass bands, go to: https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/save-our-brass-bands

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 Podcast

4BR Review — Episode 22

October 2 • A preview of the 2026 Championship Section National Final at the Royal Albert Hall and the issues that arise....


NYBBGB

NYBBGB launches Young Composer competition

October 2 • Young composers aged 30 and under are being asked to create a new work for the National Youth Brass Band of Great Britain.


James Shepherd

New award to be presented at Royal Albert Hall

October 2 • A wonderful new award in memory of one of the greatest ever cornet players will be made at the Royal Albert Hall this weekend.


Black Dyke Band

Tributes to Hammonds duo at Black Dyke

October 2 • The Black Dyke Band has paid tribute to Jon and Tim Hammond as they prepare to take their final contest bow with the Queensbury Band this weekend.


Regent Hall Concerts - Consort Brass Quintet

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


Regent Hall Concerts - BoneVoyage Trombone Quartet

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


Regent Hall Concerts - Foden's Band

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


Bilton Silver Rugby Band - Nobody Does It Better - The Music of James Bond.

Saturday 3 October • St Andrew's Church, Church Street, Rugby CV21 3PT


Regent Hall Concerts - The Regent Hall Band of the Salvation Army

Sunday 4 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Olney Brass

September 30 • We are a friendly and committed THIRD SECTION band looking for:. . - CORNETS (Front & Back Row). - SOLO HORN. . Engagements and concerts in the Olney/Milton Keynes area.. Rehearsals in Milton Keynes MK15 (5 mins from J14 of M1) on Tuesdays 7.45-9.45pm.


Ashington Colliery Band

September 30 • Tenor Trombone: We're a friendly, ambitious Second Section band based in South East Northumberland just north of Blyth. We rehearse Tuesdays & Thursdays, 19:30-21:30, and transport can be provided depending on location.


Waltham St. Lawrence Silver Band

September 28 • . Our welcoming non-contesting community band, based near Maidenhead, Bracknell and Reading, has openings for: . Percussion, kit and tuned: a lovely pair of timps awaits you!.


Alan Fernie

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


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd