*
banner

Rolfe and Iles claim Foden's awards

Andy Rolfe and Sam Iles take home the Bandsman of the Year and Player of the Year awards with the world's number 1 ranked band.

Awards
  Andy and Sam claimed the sought after awards this year

Foden's Band has made its annual presentation of awards at its recent patron's concert in Sandbach.

The awards are made each year by the world's number 1 ranked band to recognise the outstanding contributions made by individuals to their ongoing musical success.

Bandsman of the Year

The 'Bandsman of the Year' award was presented to long serving cornet player and administrator Andy Rolfe, who as the band stated "…is a pivotal cog in all that goes on behind the scenes in the organisation at Foden's, none more so than his exceptional work co-ordinating our unforgettable first ever trip to South Korea in August."

Player of the Year

The 'Player of the Year' award voted by fellow players went to percussionist Sam Iles.

The band stated: "Throughout the last 12 months, Sam has showcased his multitude of skills with great aplomb; whether it be outstanding work on the competitive stages, taking the spotlight as one of our featured soloists at Brass in Concert — or providing 'purr-fect' cat impressions in his percussion feature 'Kitten on the Keys' in concerts!"

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    


Kirsty Abbotts

Abbotts flugel role with Grimethorpe

September 5 • Kirsty Abbotts is the new flugel horn player at Grimethorpe Colliery Band.


Brighouse

British Open Countdown: T minus 7

September 5 • 10 bands taking part this year have lifted the famous British Open Gold Shield in triumph...


Mead

Tour marathon for Mead

September 5 • Steven Mead marks a musical milestone with a marathon Asian tour.


Boax

Bands need to tick right Boax at Registry

September 5 • Cory Band baritone player Charlie Boax has joined the Brass Band Players Registry as their new Office Administrator.


The Hepworth Band - Public Rehearsal ahead of the 2026 British Open

Tuesday 8 September • Ossett Town Hall, Market Place, Ossett WF5 8BE


Sherborne Town Band - Free-Music in the park

Sunday 13 September • Sherborne, Dorset-Pageant Gardens DT9 3NP


Regent Hall Concerts - The Band of the Grenadier Guards

Thursday 17 September • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - The Duchess of Edinburgh String Orchestra

Friday 18 September • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - The Band of the Irish Guards

Thursday 1 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Enderby Band

September 5 • Championship section band seeking CORNETS (positions negotiable), Eb BASS, and PERCUSSIONISTS to join our committed, hard-working and friendly team, performing a balanced diary of concerts and contests.


Harrogate Band

September 4 • The Harrogate Band are looking for a 1st Baritone and Soprano player to complete our team. Forward thinking and exciting band with a wide range of engagements and contests. Rehearsals are Wednesday 8pm in our own bandroom with great transport links.


Yorkshire Imperial

September 3 • Yorkshire Imperial band have SECOND HORN and BBb BASS vacancies available. . At Imps we have a proud tradition, clear ambitions and a sensible, well-planned schedule. We're looking for musicians who want to make outstanding music & will enjoy the journey.


Jonathan Corry

Ph.D, M.Mus, B.Mus (hons)
Conductor, adjudicator, teacher.


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd