*
banner

4BR Tuesday Interview with Steven Mead

4BR catches up with the virtuoso Besson euph star/musical archeologist to talk about a long forgotten hour long video production from the 2006 National Championships of Great Britain that has seen the light day again.

Griemthorpe
  The contest was won by Grimethorpe Colliery Band conducted by Allan Withington

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

The video of the 2006 National Championships of Great Britain has been hidden away, long forgotten in the dusty corners of Steve's attic until now — and it makes for fascinating viewing.

Not only do we all look a lot younger (4BR Editor included), it is a reminder of the enduring popularity of the event when a test-piece catches the imagination — and Grimethorpe and Allan Withington claimed the title in thrilling fashion.

The Major

There are some great interviews with the likes of Major Peter Parkes and Geoffrey Whitham and the adjudicators, as well as footage of the bands in performance and the players as they come off stage.

Made to mark Buffet's reconnection with the British banding movement through its instrument production, Steve captures the atmosphere and tension of the day as it unfolds.

Enjoy:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6p3_kU3djZU

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    


Music

Spheres starting to align across the UK

September 3 • Keep an eye out for a chance to hear a preview of 'Music of the Spheres' ahead of the British Open at Symphony Hall.


Youth

Youth Champs registration to open next week

September 3 • It is first come first served for the spots to take part in the National Youth Championship of Great Britain.


March

Call for representation at Holme Valley AGM

September 3 • Bands are being asked to attend the AGM of the Holme Valley Contest Committee to ensure the popular contest can continue in the future.


TIPD

BBE extends partnership with cashless donations platform Tipd

September 3 • Brass Band England member bands can benefit from gaining digital donations.


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


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.


Crewe Brass

September 1 • Crewe Brass are looking for PERCUSSION PLAYERS (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.


David A. Stowell


Conductor and composer


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd