*
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    


Gregson

Gregson at 80 in Scotland

October 28 • Music by and chosen by the acclaimed composer will be performed at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland this evening.


Paul Mealor

Foden's to premiere new Paul Mealor work at leading festival

October 28 • Foden's will give the world premiere of 'Tranquil Abiding' at St Asaph Cathedral as part of the North Wales International Music Festival.


Harry Porthouse

Porthouse reprise at Leyland

October 28 • Harry Porthouse takes over the principal cornet seat at Leyland Band from Lewis Barton — following in his father's footsteps.


Tredeagr Band

New addition to Tredegar tuba team

October 28 • Edward Falloon, the principal tuba of the National Youth Orchestra joins the bass section at the Welsh Champion.


Regent Hall Concerts - Central Band of the RAF

Friday 24 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. WC1 2DJ W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - Amersham Band

Friday 24 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. WC1 2DJ W1C2DJ


Haverhill Silver Band - Concert in Thaxted Church

Saturday 25 October • haxted Parish Church. Watling St, Thaxted CM6 2PE


Petworth Town Band - Petworth Town Band VE & VJ Day Remembrance Concert

Saturday 25 October • St Mary’s Church Petworth GU28 OAD


Regent Hall Concerts - Paddington Brass

Friday 31 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. WC1 2DJ W1C2DJ


Welwyn Garden City Band

October 28 • We are a friendly & sociable Second Section Band with an exciting and varied Christmas season ahead. Due to an employment relocation, we have an immediate vacancy for a FRONT ROW CORNET player.


Lostock Hall Brass Band

October 27 • Lostock Hall Memorial Brass Band, North West 2nd Section seek applications for a vibrant, enthusiastic Musical Director to continue to develop and grow the band. With a great mix of youth and experience we are based just off M6 JCT 29 Near Preston


Olney Brass

October 27 • Currently seeking the following players to complete our line up: Solo Cornet, Soprano Cornet, Flugel Horn & Eb Bass. We are a friendly and ambitious, 2nd section L&SC area brass band, with a good mixture of concerts, fetes and contests throughout the year


Sarah Groarke-Booth

BA (Hons) MA
Conductor, Adjudicator, Compere, Actor


               

 © 2025 4barsrest.com Ltd