*
banner

Fairey add to signings with flugel star

The Stockport band continues to strengthen its ranks with the signing of flugel star Nicola Shaw from Wingates.

Nicola Shaw
  Nicola Shaw is the latest signing for Fairey Band

It's not just Premier League football clubs that have been dipping into the transfer market of late with the Fairey Band one of the busiest to boost its playing ranks with new talent.

The latest addition to the Stockport band's squad is the signing of flugel player Nicola Shaw from Wingates.

Soloist

Nicóla joins having enjoyed a successful eight year tenure at the northwest band — one which also saw her emerge as a fine soloist with critically noted performances at the recent Brass Pass Festival in Halifax and in winning both the Open Slow Melody and Air Varie categories of the SWBBA solo contest.

Commenting on her new role, Nicola told 4BR: "I'm extremely grateful for my years at Wingates and would like to take the time to thank them. I'm also excited about my next chapter as flugel with Fairey.

Having been present with the band over the last months, there is such a positive atmosphere. It looks to be an exciting time and I feel so privileged to have been asked to be part of it, especially as a soloist."

With her outstanding solo playing I'm looking forward to being able to introduce her to our audiences at upcoming concertsFairey MD, Adam Cooke

Top class

Speaking of the appointment, Musical Director Adam Cooke told 4BR: "Nicola has earned a growing reputation as a top class flugel player, and it was immediately clear that she was the perfect choice for us.

With her outstanding solo playing I'm looking forward to being able to introduce her to our audiences at upcoming concerts."

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    


Italian Brass Band

Italian Brass Band adds to conductor experience

October 11 • The Italian Brass Band has played its part in giving conductors a very different musical experience.


West Wales BBA

Report & Results: 2026 West Wales BBA Festival

October 11 • Parc & Dare continues its run of prize-winning form as Markham & District, Cwmtawe, Gwaun-Cae-Gurwen and Llanharan & Bryncae Brass claim the honours in Cefneithin.


Elland

All ages of playing experience showcase excellence in Elland

October 11 • There was a super day of competitive solo, duet and quartet action on show at Elland Silver Band's popular event.


Stephen Cobb

Cobb to lead Kingdom Triumphant workshop

October 11 • Dr Stephen Cobb will lead a workshop on Eric Ball's iconic work — and its open to everyone to be part of for free.


Regent Hall Concerts - Regent Brass

Saturday 10 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Hathersage Band - Hathersage Village Autumn Concert

Saturday 10 October • Hathersage Methodist Church, Main Road, Hathersage S32 1BB


Garforth Brass - Annual Chairman's Charity Concert

Saturday 10 October • Miners Welfare Hall. 56 Main Street. Garforth . Leeds. LS25 1AA LS25 1AA


Bedford Town Band - Autumn Concert also featuring our Academy

Saturday 10 October • Putnoe Heights Church. Putnoe Heights. Bedford MK41 8EB


Regent Hall Concerts - Trafalgar Brass

Thursday 15 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Tintwistle Band

October 11 • We are looking for a repiano cornet player to help complete the team. We are a second section band and rehearse Monday and Thursday 8-10pm at our own bandroom on Old Road in Tintwistle. We perform a variety of concerts and contests all year round.


Epping Forest Band

October 8 • Euphonium and solo horn wanted to join our friendly sociable 2nd section band. Based in Essex with close links to the M11 and the underground central line. Instrument's provided of required


Bedford Town Band

October 8 • Bedford Town Band are looking to recruit a Solo trombone and Repiano cornet . We are playing at the Wychavon Contest in a few weeks and are looking to be in the frame at the 1st Section Regionals . Rehearsals Thursday 7.45 at Castle Newnham School.


Alan Widdop


Conductor, Brass teacher, Adjudicator (ABBA)


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd