*
banner

b# ready for protective action with Audley

Qualkem, the makers of the b# cleaning products recently came to the aid of Audley Brass as they returned to open rehearsals.

Audley
  B# helped the band by offering them a place to rehearse.

Qualkem, the manufacturers of the b# brand of instrument cleaning products recently helped their local brass band Audley Brass to return to socially distanced rehearsals.

With changes in the restrictions the band from Staffordshire were keen to get a full ensemble together to start rehearsals, but as their bandroom is currently being renovated and they do not have access to an appropriate private outdoor space they approached Qualkem to see if they could make use of their carpark.

Great chance

MD Tom Hancock told 4BR: "It was a great chance to get the whole band together after we had enjoyed some online rehearsals, isolation videos, and masterclasses with leading musicians.

Between lockdowns we managed some small sectional and part band rehearsals, but this was the first time since lockdown the whole band had been able to play together."

Support

In response Ivan Anketell-Clifford the MD at Qualkem added: "We have always had a close working relationship with bands in the area and we have Mark Wilkinson and Foden's as endorsees of the b# brand.

Three members of staff play for Audley so it was great to support them and their colleagues in their efforts to get back to some form of musical normality".

B# brass instrument cleaning soak is made in the UK and is available from all major brass instrument retailers.

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    


RNCM

Research recognition for RNCM

January 8 • The Royal Northern College of Music adds to its established recognition as a leading centre for the advanced study of music performance and composition.


ODBBA

ODBBA confident of capacity turn-out

January 8 • You will need to be quick to make sure you get your entry in for the Oxford & District Brass Band Association Winter Contest.


Geneva Clans

Geneva boost to cross border battle

January 8 • Geneva Instruments has boosted the prize funds for the forthcoming 'Clans vs Counties Contest' in June.


Elland

Elland to lead youth procession to the Minster

January 8 • Eight youth and training bands will provide the musical entertainment at Halifax Minster next month.


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


Putney and Wimbledon Brass Band

January 8 • Following our promotion to the 2nd section we are looking for a percussionist to do a bit of bing bonging on the timps for the regionals in March. We are a lovely band - everyone says so - so please get in touch. Rehearsals Weds from 1930 in Putney.


Mid Rhondda Band

January 6 • Mid Rhondda Band are currently looking for a trombone player and percussionists to join the team. We are a friendly, welcoming 3rd section band working towards competing in the Welsh Area in March. We also have a variety of events booked for 2026.


The Marple Band

January 6 • Bb Bass and Tuned Percussionist vacancies to join our fabulous band. We are a friendly, ambitious 2nd Section band, starting an exciting new year.


Alan Fernie

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


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd