*
banner

Brass in Concert stalwart takes final bow

The hugely respected David Bennett has retired form the Brass in Concert Championships.

Bic
  David (left) has been an integral part of the event since the start

The Brass in Concert Championships have announced the retirement of long-standing board member, David Bennett, the organisation's Chairman since 2019.

His involvement with the event dates to its first contest in Darlington in 1977, when it was established to celebrate HM The Queen's Silver Jubilee.

Over the next 45 years, David (left) remained a figure of huge respect and indefatigable good humour and dedication, playing a major role in establishing Brass in Concert as the leading brass band entertainment championship in the world.

He will be succeeded by Paul Beere, whose family's involvement also covers the entire history of the event; his father, Cyril, one of its founders along with Peter Hartley and Roy Newsome.

Thanks

Paying tribute to his predecessor, Paul Beere told 4BR: "I'm very honoured to accept the position and would like to thank David and his family for their enormous contribution to Brass in Concert over many years.

His connections to artistic and charitable organisations, especially in the north east of England have been vital in securing a vibrant future for what has become the leading brass band entertainment event in the world over the past 45 years.

We all wish David a very happy and well-deserved retirement and look forward to welcoming him, in his new role as our Honorary President, to Sage Gateshead for many years to come."

New CEO

It was also announced that Nigel Stevens will take over the new position of Chief Executive Officer of Brass in Concert and will continue to be the main liaison with participants, sponsors and venues.

This year's Brass in Concert Championship will be held at Sage Gateshead on Saturday 19th November, with details announced in the coming weeks.

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    


Phiip Wilby

Dobcross Wilby ready for Cheltenham

September 5 • A visit from Prof Philip Wilby to a recent Dobcross Silver Band rehearsal has given everyone a musical boost ahead of their National challenge.


Simon Johnson

Johnson takes principal lead at LSO

September 5 • Former Williams Fairey solo trombonist Simon Johnson has been appointed principal trombone of the London Symphony Orchestra.


Bon Accord Youth

Youthful future assured at Bon Accord

September 5 • Fantastic outreach work sees a new youth band set up by Bon Accord Silver Band.


Birmingham Citadel Band

Citadel welcome to the British Open

September 5 • The Birmingham Citadel Band will offer a warm musical welcome to the 171st British Open Championship on Saturday.


Contest: 171st British Open

Saturday 6 September • Broad Street, Birmingham. B1 2EA


Contest: Lower Sections 1-4 National Finals

Saturday 13 September • Cheltenham Racecourse, Evesham Road, Cheltenham GL50 4SH


Contest: Lower Sections 1-4 National Finals

Sunday 14 September • Cheltenham Racecourse, Evesham Road, Cheltenham. . *Please note as of 24th August 2023 the date is provisional according to Kapitol Promotions website GL50 4SH


Petworth Town Band - Petworth Town Band at Petworth Heritage weekend

Saturday 20 September • Centre of Petworth Town GU28 OAH


Cheltenham Silver Band - Holst Birthday Concert

Saturday 20 September • All Saints Church, All Saints Road, Pittville, Cheltenham GL52 2HG


Crewe Brass

September 5 • We are looking for FLUGEL 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.


Rushden Town Band

September 2 • 2nd Trombone position has become vacant as current holder off to University. Rehearsals Mondays and Wednesday at Rushden Hall. RTB is a friendly 1st Section band who have recently come back from their second tour abroad and also released their first CD.


Bilton Silver Rugby Band

September 2 • Are you moving to the West Midlands this autumn or possibly fancy a change of bandroom scenery? The band are looking to recruit an Eb bass and a Kit Percussionist to help us with our varied and ever expanding range of events.


Michael Bennett

BSc, RNCM (Perf)
Performer, Composer, Arranger, Teacher


               

 © 2025 4barsrest.com Ltd