*
banner

More 'Big Chat' from Smith and Gresswell

Sandy Smith and Simon Gresswell are joined by composer Philip Sparke for the latest episode of their 'Big Chat' podcast.

Smith and Grezzy
  The third episode of the podcast is now out

The third episode of Smith and Grezzy's 'Big Chat' podcast is now out — and with appropriate timing they are joined by special guest, composer Philip Sparke.

Philip has written 'A Road Less Travelled' as the set-work for this year's European Championship event in Palanga this weekend, whilst the pair themselves have played in winning bands at the contest on 17 occasions.

Experiences

Sandy and Simon discuss their experiences and the compositional tricks of the trade that they have been aware of at the event, as well as some of the music performed and their thoughts on the modern blockbusters and how the contest has influenced the banding movement across Europe as well as the UK.

Philip joins to touch on his latest work, talk about his compositional methodology and how he approaches writing for both top section and lower section bands.

To enjoy:


https://shows.podcastle.ai/smith-grezzy-s-big-chat-brass-J1XRDoM0/the-european-championships-YMgZ582D

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    


Kerkrade

World Championships to be streamed

June 19 • It has been announced that the brass band events at the World Championships in Kerkrade will be live-streamed.


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.


Putney and Wimbledon Brass Band - Summer Concert

Saturday 20 June • The Community Church, Werter Road, Putney. SW15 2LL


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


Alder Valley Brass

June 19 • Bb bass player. We are an ambitious, busy and sociable 2nd section band (L&SC, National finalists 2023) with a varied blend of engagements, concerts and contests. We rehearse 8-10pm Mondays and Thursdays in Farnham, Surrey. Other enquiries welcome.


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.


Julian Bright


Conductor, Compere/MC, Cornet Soloist


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd