*
banner

Knapton takes leave from Market Rasen

Increased work commitments has meant that Ian Knapton has stepped down from his role as MD at Market Rasen Band.

Ian Knapton
  Ian Knapton has helped rejuvenate the band over the past year or so.

4BR has been informed that due to increased work commitments Ian Knapton has reluctantly announced that he is to leave Market Rasen Band.

It ends a year or more of encouraging rebuilding for the Midlands Second Section band, with Ian telling 4BR: "They have been a great band to be with, but as with everything with banding it's getting a balance and with increased work commitments and the 140 mile round trip it's just not possible anymore."

Fantastic attitude

He added: "I hope the band can keep pushing forward as they are a great group of people with a fantastic attitude and dedication.

They have built up from just 12 players at the first rehearsal to taking to the stage with 21 at the Area. Now they are in the position to push on further."

I hope the band can keep pushing forward as they are a great group of people with a fantastic attitude and dedicationIan Knapton

Thanks

In response to the announcement, a band spokesperson added: "We would like to thank Ian for his time with us. His drive and passion were clear to see from the first rehearsal.

He's travelled nearly 10,000 miles in the last 12 months for rehearsals and we wish him well for the future."

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    


Blackpool

York and London on the horizon for North West Area contenders

February 28 • The 2026 Regional Championships get underway in Blackpool on Sunday with 75 taking to the stage at the Winter Gardens but with qualification sights on York and London.


Elgar International Festival

Royal Birmingham Conservatoire set to welcome Elgar International Festival of Brass

February 28 • Brass Band Willebroek, Black Dyke Band, Flowers, Foden's and David Childs headline the musical attractions for a day of the very best brass band music making in June.


First Old Boys

Youth fly musical flag for Old Boys

February 28 • A trio of talented young players from 1st Old Boys Band will be making their mark with different representative ensembles later this year.


York Barbican

National Finals to move to York

February 27 • The Section 1-4 National Finals will be held York Barbican this year as the contest heads north from Cheltenham.


Regent Hall Concerts - Royal Greenwich Brass Band

Friday 27 February • Regent Hall. (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - Oompah Brass XXL

Friday 27 February • Regent Hall. (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - Royal Greenwich Brass Band

Sunday 1 March • St. Alfege Church. Greenwich Church Street. London SE10 9BJ


Regent Hall Concerts - London Central Fellowship Band

Saturday 7 March • Regent Hall. (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - Regent Hall Band of the Salvation Army

Tuesday 10 March • Regent Hall. (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Harlow Brass Band

February 27 • We are a friendly, non-contesting band who have the following vacancies:. Trombones, 2nd Horn, Back Row Cornets, Percussion. . We rehearse every Thursday in Harlow, 8-10pm and play at local events throughout the year.


Newmarket Town Band

February 27 • Newmarket Town Band is inviting applications for the post of 'Musical Director'. We are a non-contesting band who play to a high standard with regular bookings throughout the year. Rehearsals are held on Wednesdays 7:30 - 9:30pm


Banks Brass Band

February 25 • It's not too late to join Banks Brass Band, a friendly non-contesting band near Southport. All players welcome particularly euphoniums, trombones and basses. Rehearsals: Mondays 8.00-9.30pm in the Hub@Banks community centre, PR9 8BL


Stephen Phillips

MA, BA (Homs), PQSI, NPQH, PGCE
Conductor, Band Trainer, Educator, Compere


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd