*
banner

National qualification focus on Smith & Grezzy's 'Big Chat Brass'

The latest podcast from Smith & Grezzy looks at the decision to reduce the number of Royal Albert Hall finalists — and whether there may be a better option or two...

Smith and Grezzy
  Simon and Sandy are joined by 4BR Editor Iwan Fox

The latest episode of Smith & Grezzy's 'Big Chat Brass' is now out and sees the duo joined by 4BR Editor Iwan Fox to talk about the proposals to reduce the number of bands at the Royal Albert Hall National Finals.

It comes in the wake of the decision made by the Kapitol National Forum made up of the eight regionals representatives to reduce the Albert Hall number from 20 to 19.

Controversy

However, it has come with quite a bit of controversy attached, both in the way it was decided, the timing of the announcement and the numerical proposal itself.

Sandy and Simon first look at the British Open and how it is structured before asking Iwan about his recent article on 4BR which brought the details to light and the potential proposals he has come up with as possible alternatives.

To enjoy

To find out more and enjoy go to:
https://podcastle.ai/show/smith-grezzy-s-big-chat-brass-J1XRDoM0/the-finals-conundrum-1crKBK6i

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    


Instruments

Band Supplies offers best bet at Cheltenham

September 12 • If you are looking for a sure thing each way bet on deals on top instruments at Cheltenham, out your money on Band Supplies.


NBCA

Pankhurst work dropped for Australian National Championships.

September 12 • Lucy Pankhurst's 'The Ghosts of Industry' has been dropped as the Premier Grade set-work at the 2026 Australian National Championships.


Nationals

Cheltenham performances recorded by Wobplay

September 12 • All the performances at the National Finals in Cheltenham this weekend will be recorded by Wobplay and available for enjoy again after each section's results.


Evetntz

Ev-entz to provide on-stage sponsorship and exclusive deals

September 12 • The leading percussion hire and retailer will be giving a helping hand to performers on and off stage at Cheltenham this weekend.


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


Regent Hall Concerts - The Band of the Grenadier Guards Big Band

Friday 26 September • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. WC1 2DJ W1C2DJ


Chinnor Silver

September 11 • Our COMMUNITY BAND are meeting again on Monday (15th) and we would welcome any players who fancy joining us for a relaxed and friendly blow.. All abilities are welcome and meeting with us has no impact on your main band.. Cake and coffee included FREE


Epping Forest Band

September 11 • We have a solo horn vacancy to join our friendly 3rd section band. We have a sensible calendar of contests and concerts.. Situated with close links to the M11/M25 and Central line tube station, with our own band room.. Rehearsals Monday night 8-10pm.


Delph Band

September 9 • We are a friendly, hardworking North West 2nd Section band based in Saddleworth. Rehearsal nights are Mondays and Wednesdays, 8-10pm at Delph Band Club. We are currently looking to fill the following positions; Tutti Cornet, Percussion and Eb Bass.


Prof. Christopher Houlding

MMus, GGSM, LRAM
Conductor, Performer, Educator


               

 © 2025 4barsrest.com Ltd