*
banner

4BR Friday Interview with Philip Sparke

4BR catches up with the renowned composer after it was announced that he has become an Honorary Member of the American Bandmasters' Association — an accolade given to just three other English musicians in its history.

Philip Sparke
  Philip Sparke continues to plan for the future with his works

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

4BR talks to composer Philip Sparke who has been presented with honorary membership of the American Bandmasters' Association — a prestigious and rare accolade, and one that sees him join a roll of honour that includes the likes of Ottorino Respighi, Percy Grainger, Gustav Holst and Sir Vivian Dunne.

He is only the third English musicians to honoured in such a way and comes at a time when he continues to plan for the future with new works for concert and brass bands, and with the launch of his new website.

To find out more go to: www.philipsparke.com

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    


bic

Make sure you book your best BIC seat in the house

November 11 • Your really don't want to miss out on the entertainment at Brass in Concert this year — even if you can't make it to Gateshead.


Peter Moore

Moore on Radio 3

November 11 • The acclaimed soloist can be heard performing Dani Howard's 'Trombone Concerto' on Radio 3 next week.


Youth Championships

Limited places remain for Youth Champs 2026

November 11 • There are not many places left to be filled for the 2026 National Youth Championships — so you had better be quick if you want to be a part of a great day of music making.


Perth Concert Hall

Big turn out for Scottish battles in Perth

November 11 • There will be domestic as well as cross border rivalry on show in Perth later this month for the Band Supplies Scottish Challenge, Besson Scottish Open and Creative Scotland Scottish Youth Championships.


Regent Hall Concerts - Five By 5 Trumpet Ensemble

Friday 14 November • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. WC1 2DJ W1C2DJ


Contest: 48th Brass in Concert

Saturday 15 November • The Gladhous International Centre for Music, St Mary's Square, Gateshead NE8 2JR


Delph Band - Delph Youth Band

Sunday 16 November • Denshaw Village Hall, . Ripponden Rd, . Denshaw, . Oldham OL3 5SY


Regent Hall Concerts - Trombonanza with Brett Baker and Friends

Saturday 22 November • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. WC1 2DJ W1C2DJ


Dobcross Silver Band - Dobross Youth Band and Dobcross Brass Monkeys

Saturday 22 November • Civic Hall . Lee Street . Uppermill . Saddleworth OL3 6AE


Audley Brass

November 13 • Audley Brass (First Section National Finalists 2025) are seeking an Eb BASS PLAYER as we work towards our Dickens A Christmas Carol theme concert, the Beartown Brewery Christmas party and the 2026 Area contest.


Crewe Brass

November 13 • Crewe Brass are looking for PERCUSSION (TUNED and KIT) 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

November 13 • Crewe Brass are looking for a BBb BASS player 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.


Jonathan Corry

Ph.D, M.Mus, B.Mus (hons)
Conductor, adjudicator, teacher.


               

 © 2025 4barsrest.com Ltd