*
banner

Eikanger extend Gilje connection to 27 years

The musical partnership between Eikanger-Bjørsvik Musikklag and conductor Reid Gilje has been extended for another two years.

Reid
  Reid Gilje's connection with Eikanger stretches back over 25 years

4BR has been informed that the outstanding musical partnership between Eikanger-Bjørsvik Musikklag and conductor Reid Gilje has been extended for another two years.

2025 marked a quarter of century since the initial appointment was made, although Gilje had enjoyed a freelance role with the band prior to this.

Integral part

Since 2000 though he has become an integral part of Eikanger's artistic and competitive ambitions — leading the band to the National Championship in 2019 as well as 12 Siddis Championships victories and the Brass in Concert title in 2017.

He has also been a major contributor as a composer and arranger to the band's commercial recordings, entertainment programmes and projects.

Positive development

Speaking about the news, Eikanger-Bjørsvik Chairperson Frode Rydland told 4BR: "Reid has been extremely important for the band and its continuous, positive development during his entire tenure.

Continuity and quality are essential factors for success for any ensemble which strives to develop and Reid embodies both these two factors brilliantly. In every musical aspect he is a true master of all genres."

Continuity and quality are essential factors for success for any ensemble which strives to develop and Reid embodies both these two factors brilliantly. In every musical aspect he is a true master of all genresFrode Rydland

Time and again

He added: "That has been shown time and time again with the band claiming 14 Norwegian National and 14 Siddis Brass titles thanks to his direct input. We are therefore delighted we can look forward to another two years of building success together with him."

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    


Fodens

RNCM International Brass Band Festival concerts on wobplay

February 3 • Foden's opening concert of a memorable weekend in Manchester can now be enjoyed on the Wobplay.com media platform — with others to follow.


Eiamjer

Major financial boost to help Eikanger ambitions

February 3 • A substantial three year grant will help support the Siddis champion with its educational, music outreach programmes and ongoing running costs.


Jimmy Leggat

Cross border accolades for Leggat

February 3 • The popular KNDS Fairey bandsman Jimmy Leggat takes a final official bow on a very special weekend of musical celebration with friends.


New Zealand

New Zealand National bands face financial challenges

February 2 • BBNZ President says its National Secondary Schools Band, National Youth Band, and National Band of New Zealand are in need of financial support after grant bids fail.


Dobcross Silver Band - Whitburn Band

Sunday 1 February • c/o Dobcross Band Club. Platt Lane. Dobcross Saddleworth OL3 5AD


Contest: Norwegian National Brass Band Championships

Friday 6 February • Grieghallen, Bergen, N-5015 N-5015


Contest: Norwegian National Brass Band Championships

Saturday 7 February • Grieghallen, Bergen, N-5015 N-5015


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


West Wycombe Brass Band

February 1 • West Wycombe Brass Band are looking for Flugel and Horn players, any position. Rehearsals Wednesday 7.45-9.45pm in own band hall. Give us a call, or email.


Croy Silver Band

February 1 • Croy Silver Band currently has contest vacancies on Cornet and Percussion, but is always happy to accommodate enthusiastic new players in any section of the band.


Tintwistle Band

January 29 • We have a vacancy for a soprano cornet player, ideally able to join us long-term, but we are also looking to fill this position to compete in the 2nd section Midlands area contest in March 2026.. We enjoy all year round concerts, contests,and social events


David W. Ashworth

RSCM, ABBA Exec Member, NABBC PRO.
Conductor, Band Trainer and Adjudicator


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd