*
banner

Wingates say hello and goodbye

Wingates welcome some new faces and say goodbye to some old ones too.

Wingates
 

Wingates Band has announced a number of new signings whilst also saying goodbye to former players too.

Welcome

The band welcomes Chris Reedy on Bb Bass from BT and Mark Gauci Baritone — all the way from Malta. This follows both Phil Lightfoot and Barry Bentley's decision to stand down from the band in a playing capacity. Both Phil and Barry continue to be associated with the band as trustee and chairman, respectively.

Band Manager Graeme Hall told 4BR: "At the start of a new season it is always sad to lose players but pleasing to meet new faces."

At the start of a new season it is always sad to lose players but pleasing to meet new facesBand Manager, Graeme Hall

Special thanks

Graham also took the opportunity to thank Tom Berry (2nd Trombone) who has joined Fodens, Emily Dodsworth (cornet) who has joined Rothwell and Angela Crossley (percussion) who has also moved across the Pennines to Black Dyke.

Graham also gave a special mention to Liz Sawyer (Flugel) as she moves to London this weekend after three years sterling service to the band.

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    


bROOKwRIGHT

Easter treats from BrookWright Music

February 26 • There are plenty of Easter musical treats to enjoy from a variety of composers from BrookWright Music.


Herbert

The Brass Band Story set for publication

February 26 • A new book written by Prof Trevor Herbert and aimed at general readers interested in an overall analysis and insight into the brass band movement in the UK and beyond, is to be published in July.


Desford

Small drop in Midlands Area entrants

February 26 • 69 bands will compete at the Midlands Regional Championships over two weekends in March.


Perth

Positive uptake for Scottish title challenges

February 26 • There will be two full days of competitive and non-competitive music making at the 2026 Scottish Championship in Perth.


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


Regent Hall Concerts - Royal Greenwich Brass Band

Sunday 1 March • St. Alfege Church. Greenwich Church Street. London SE10 9BJ


Regent Hall Concerts - London Central Fellowship Band

Saturday 7 March • Regent Hall. (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - Regent Hall Band of the Salvation Army

Tuesday 10 March • Regent Hall. (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Banks Brass Band

February 25 • It's not too late to join Banks Brass Band, a friendly non-contesting band near Southport. All players welcome particularly euphoniums, trombones and basses. Rehearsals: Mondays 8.00-9.30pm in the Hub@Banks community centre, PR9 8BL


Chinnor Silver

February 23 • Our COMMUNITY BAND are meeting on MONDAY 2nd at 11am in our bandroom.. Join us for a relaxed friendly blow with coffee and cake as an added bonus.. Playing with us wont impact your No1 band so come along for a blow.


St Albans Brass Band

February 19 • TUNED PERCUSSION PLAYER Wanted. St Albans Band. Rehearsals Wednesdays 8 to 10pm. Varied programme of concerts, gigs and civic events throughout the year. Friendly, welcoming brass band. Experienced players and returners welcome. www.stalbansband.co.uk


John Ward


Conductor, Adjudicator


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd