*
banner

New approach adds numbers to judges bench

The online Annual General Meeting of the Association of Brass Band Adjudicators proved a success this weekend

Aobba
  The use of online technology saw a record number of members tune in to attend.

The Association of Brass Band Adjudicators (AoBBA) held their Annual General Meeting on Sunday 10th January.

Despite a lack of contesting activity in the past year it was a busy and informative online event — with a record number attendees tuning in to take part.

Changes

There were two changes to the Executive Committee. David Ashworth stepped down as treasurer after three years valuable service with Chris King taking over the role. He in turn stepped down from the Public Relations Officer role to be replaced by David Hirst.

In addition, AoBBA Chairman Mark Wilkinson will once again be joined by Sheona White, Sarah Groarke-Booth and Christopher Bond, the well known composer and conductor who was elected for the first time.

Thanks

David Hirst took the opportunity to pay tribute to Stan Lippeatt and Alan Morrison who both retired from the executive committee after many years dedicated service in a number of roles.

Members also received excellent continuing professional development training from Sheona White, Martin Heartfield and David Hirst on the importance and content of summative paragraphs in adjudication.

The online technology ensured that a small group discussion could take place after hearing examples of performances.

Despite a lack of contesting activity in the past year it was a busy and informative online event — with a record number attendees tuning in to take part4BR

2021 Executive Committee:

Chair: Mark Wilkinson
Secretary: Nicholas Garman
Treasurer: Chris King
PRO: David Hirst
Trainee Mentor: Martin Heartfield

Non officer members: Simone Rebello, Brett Baker, Sarah Groarke-Booth, Sheona White, Christopher Bond.

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    


Making Music

New CEO at Making Music

September 3 • Making Music appoints Ben Saffell as its new Chief Executive Officer.


Sparke

British Open Countdown: T minus 9

September 3 • The countdown is underway for this year's British Open with 'Music of the Spheres' ready for lift off. But which European own-choice topping piece comes close to it in contest popularity since it was used in 2004?


Friary

New signing at Friary

September 3 • Cornish cornet player Jacob Griffiths returns to the banding fold with Friary.


BrookWright

2026 BrookWright Solo winners announced

September 3 • Mark Vause and Elijah Baker claim the main category awards with 11-year-old cornetist Bradley Mahungu capturing the Public Commendation Prize.


The Hepworth Band - Public Rehearsal ahead of the 2026 British Open

Tuesday 8 September • Ossett Town Hall, Market Place, Ossett WF5 8BE


Sherborne Town Band - Free-Music in the park

Sunday 13 September • Sherborne, Dorset-Pageant Gardens DT9 3NP


Regent Hall Concerts - The Band of the Grenadier Guards

Thursday 17 September • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - The Duchess of Edinburgh String Orchestra

Friday 18 September • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - The Band of the Irish Guards

Thursday 1 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Yorkshire Imperial

September 3 • Yorkshire Imperial band have SECOND HORN and BBb BASS vacancies available. . At Imps we have a proud tradition, clear ambitions and a sensible, well-planned schedule. We're looking for musicians who want to make outstanding music & will enjoy the journey.


Crewe Brass

September 1 • Crewe Brass are looking for a FRONT ROW CORNET to join our highly motivated 4th section band. We are a very welcoming and sociable band, with a positive outlook and a reasonably busy calendar of engagements. Other enquiries are welcome.


Crewe Brass

September 1 • Crewe Brass are looking for a BBb BASS to join our highly motivated 4th section band. We are a very welcoming and sociable band, with a positive outlook and a reasonably busy calendar of engagements. Other enquiries are welcome.


John Ward


Conductor, Adjudicator


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd