*
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    


New Zealand

New Zealand National bands face financial challenges

February 2 • BBNZ President says its National Secondary Schools Band, National Youth Band, and National Band of New Zealand are in need of financial support after grant bids fail.


4BR review

4BR Review — Episode 15

February 1 • Iwan Fox and Chris Thomas look back at a memorable RNCM International Brass Band Festival, as well as look forward to the Norwegian Championships and more...


Grimethorpe

Grimethorpe to support a Day to Remember

February 1 • Grimethorpe Colliery Band will add their musical sparkle to a concert that aims to raise funds for the Alzheimer's Society


UniBrass Championships

UniBrass Championships countdown now on

February 1 • There are now just a couple of weeks to go before the student banding world heads to Newport — so why not go along and enjoy the action.


Dobcross Silver Band - Whitburn Band

Sunday 1 February • c/o Dobcross Band Club. Platt Lane. Dobcross Saddleworth OL3 5AD


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


Regent Hall Concerts - Royal Greenwich Brass Band

Friday 27 February • Regent Hall. (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - Oompah Brass XXL

Friday 27 February • Regent Hall. (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


West Wycombe Brass Band

February 1 • West Wycombe Brass Band are looking for Flugel and Horn players, any position. Rehearsals Wednesday 7.45-9.45pm in own band hall. Give us a call, or email.


Croy Silver Band

February 1 • Croy Silver Band currently has contest vacancies on Cornet and Percussion, but is always happy to accommodate enthusiastic new players in any section of the band.


Tintwistle Band

January 29 • We have a vacancy for a soprano cornet player, ideally able to join us long-term, but we are also looking to fill this position to compete in the 2nd section Midlands area contest in March 2026.. We enjoy all year round concerts, contests,and social events


Alan Fernie

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


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd