*
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    


Ben Dixon

Dixon docks at Marsden for York challenge

July 24 • Grimethorpe MD, Ben Dixon will lead Marsden Silver Prize Band at the First Section National Finals.


nybbs

Scottish youth ready for NYBBS experience

July 24 • 143 talented young players will head to Perthshire for what promises to be an inspirational week of fun and serious music making.


Band Supplies

Band Supplies: The new Sterling Royale Euphonium and Baritone now available

July 24 • Band Supplies has taken stock of the eagerly anticipated Royale Euphonium and Baritone from Sterling Instruments.


Bandamonium

Countdown on for Bandamonium

July 23 • There will be bandamonium in Devon on Saturday 25th July — and you can enjoy it all live and on demand thanks to NXTOD.


Sherborne Town Band - Free Music in the park

Sunday 26 July • Sherborne, Dorset-Pageant Gardens DT9 3NP


Sherborne Town Band - Free Summer Concert- Trowbridge Park

Sunday 9 August • Summer Concert- Trowbridge Park BA14 8AH


Regent Hall Concerts - Cross Bones Trombone Quintet

Friday 21 August • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Sherborne Town Band - Free-Music in the park

Sunday 23 August • Sherborne, Dorset-Pageant Gardens DT9 3NP


Sherborne Town Band - Free-Music in the park

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


Ashington Colliery Band

July 24 • Front Row Cornet & Tenor Trombone. We're a friendly, ambitious Second Section band based in South East Northumberland just north of Blyth. We rehearse Tuesdays & Thursdays, 19:30-21:30, and transport can be provided depending on location.


Rushden Town Band

July 23 • Trombone and Bb bass positions available.


Chinnor Silver

July 21 • We are looking for PERCUSSIONISTS to join our ambitious,friendly and hard working 1st section band.Rehearsals are on Wednesdays in our own bandroom (no setting up and down). Good but realistic diary of concerts and contests including tour abroad in 2027.


Lt Col David Barringer MBE

BMus (Hons)
Conductor and adjudicator


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd