*
banner

Interview with Russell Gray

We catch up with the guest conductor of this year's National Childrens Band of Great Britain to talk about the current course, the music to be performed — and just how brilliantly busy things are each day...

National Childrens Band
  Russell Gray and Karianne Flatene Nilssen with principal players of the band

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

4BR is joined by Russell Gray — guest conductor of the National Childrens Band of Great Britain.

He is leading the band on their Summer Course in Taunton — with a packed schedule of rehearsals and activities for 60 talented youngsters who have come from Cornwall to the North East, West Wales to Kent — all full to the brim with energy and eager to enjoy themselves and the experience.

Concert

The end of course concert takes place at the famous Wells Cathedral on Friday 29th July at 2.00pm.

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    


Broxburn

New arrivals and progression at Broxburn

June 19 • New signings and great progress has been made with players coming to Broxburn & Livingston Band


Rivington and ADLINGTON

Future foundations now in place for Rivington & Adlington

June 19 • The North West band has taken a huge step forward in securing its base for its musical future.


Doodles Gold

Invest in Gold...

June 19 • Players have enjoyed dividend payment over many years from their investment in gold for their mouthpieces.


BrookWright

BrookWright Music: Peter and the Wolf (Prokofiev arr. Duncan Wilson)

June 19 • Have the wolf at the concert door with this wonderful audience friendly arrangement of the Prokofiev classic.


Barnsley Brass - Black Dyke Band

Thursday 25 June • St Mary's Church. Church Street. Barnsley S70 2AH


Regent Hall Concerts - Junior Guildhall Brass Band

Friday 26 June • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - The Royal Sackbut Collective

Friday 26 June • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Dobcross Silver Band - Mossley Band

Sunday 28 June • c/o Dobcross Band Club. Platt Lane. Dobcross Saddleworth OL3 5AD


Regent Hall Concerts - Central Band of the RAF

Thursday 2 July • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Chinnor Silver

June 17 • Our COMMUNITY BAND meet again on Monday (22nd) and we welcome players of all standards to join us for a relaxed,friendly rehearsal with Tea and cake and it’s all free.. Rehearsals are at 11am in our own bandroom playing with us does not effect your band.


Longridge Band

June 16 • Longridge Band invite applications for the positions of Flugel and Eb Bass.. We are a friendly and committed band that enjoys a great balance of concerts and contests throughout the year. A contribution to travel expenses are provided.


Harrogate Band

June 15 • After a fantastic result at the Wetherby Drovers Contest, The Harrogate Band are looking for a front row and a back row cornet player to complete the team. Rehearsals Weds 8pm with occasional Sundays at our own bandroom with great transport links


Dr. Stephen Arthur Allen

D. Phil. (Oxon) [Ph.D Oxford University], GBSM, LTCL, ABSM, ALCM, Cert. Ed.


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd