*
banner

Interview with John McDonnell MP

4BR Editor Iwan Fox finds out why the former Shadow Chancellor of the Exchequer has taken up trombone playing — as well as his opinions on the importance of music teaching and services in schools.

John
  The Labour MP is now a keen learner of the trombone.

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

It's the Weekend interview on 4BR and we are joined by John McDonnell — Labour MP for Hayes & Harlington and the former Shadow Chancellor of the Exchequer, Deputy Leader of Greater London Council, Trade Unionist — and aspiring trombone player.

When John has been interviewed on leading political programmes, he has appeared not in front of a bookcase filled with weighty political biographies, but with a trombone, music stand and a 'Tune a Day' book neatly placed in the corner of his room.

We find out more about his new found love and desire to learn the instrument as well as wider opinions about the importance of music provision and teaching in schools.

He also talks about why he thinks the European Championships will offer a boost to banding's profile, and his promise to play the trombone to help march Labour into Parliament if they win the next election playing the 'Red Flag!'

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.


Simon Gresswell


Conductor, adjudicator, tutor, tuba specialist


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd