*
banner

Celebrating 130 years of Woolston Brass

The most famous and most successful band in New Zealand in celebrating its 130th anniversary this year.

Woolston Brass
  The band has been a beacon of musical excellence since 1891.

Can't see the audio player below? Visit soundcloud.com/4barsrest

4BR talks Todd and Caroline Turner to find out more about the rich history of New Zealand's most famous and successful brass band — Woolston Brass — which this year celebrates its 130th anniversary.

The band was formed in 1891 as the Loyal Perseverance Lodge of the Manchester Independent Order of Oddfellows, but thankfully that didn't last long and they have since gone on to become the standard bearers of New Zealand banding excellence — winning their National title on 32 occasions.

As we find out, they are a band proud of its past, present and future — and hopes to add to its National tally at the Championships in July in their home city of Christchurch.

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    


bbe

Progress and challenges reported at BBE AGM

February 16 • The recent Annual General Meeting of Brass Bands England saw reports of consolidation and progress as well as resetting and rebuilding.


Castell Beaumaris

Wright & Round: Castell Beaumaris (Andy Wareham)

February 16 • A new homage addition to the iconic castle marches of the great T.J. Powell from the pen of Andy Wareham.


Italian Brass BAND

New conducting talent supported in Rome

February 16 • The Italian Brass Band continues to help support its emerging brass band culture with its masterclass conducting series.


Royal College of Music

Royal College of Music offers weekend of Youth Brass tuition

February 15 • The RCM Youth Brass weekend will offer youngsters an invaluable opportunity of practical workshops and coaching this April.


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


Regent Hall Concerts - Royal Greenwich Brass Band

Sunday 1 March • St. Alfege Church. Greenwich Church Street. London SE10 9BJ


Regent Hall Concerts - London Central Fellowship Band

Saturday 7 March • Regent Hall. (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - Regent Hall Band of the Salvation Army

Tuesday 10 March • Regent Hall. (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Oxted Band

February 17 • CORNET & TROMBONE - Our friendly, ambitious band is looking for a Cornet player (position negotiable) and Trombonists (1st and Bass) to complete our line up for 2026. Led by MD Darrell Scholes, we have a wide range of engagements and events planned.


West Wycombe Brass Band

February 15 • West Wycombe Brass Band are looking for a Flugel and Horn players, any position. Rehearsals Wednesday 7.45-9.45pm in own band hall. Give us a call or email.


Tintwistle Band

February 15 • We need a 2nd baritone player to help complete our team. . We are competing in the second section midlands area next month, but due to illness now also need to fill this seat for the contest.. We enjoy a full calendar of concerts,contests,and social events.


David Frame


Bass/Tenor Trombone Player, Adjudicator (Member of AoBBA) Occasional Conductor


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd