*
banner

Kidlington become Kings of the Castle

Kidlington Concert Brass enjoy a wonderful trip to Scotland, making new musical friends and entertaining the crowds at Edinburgh Castle.

Kidlington in concert
 

Kidlington Concert Brass recently undertook a very successful concert tour to Edinburgh.

Long trip

The band made the long journey up from just outside Oxford to take part in a wonderful joint concert with Dalkeith & Monktonhall Band, under their conductor Jim Chamberlain, in the beautiful St Mary’s Church in Dalkeith.

This was followed by drinks with the players, where firm friendships were made.

The second day saw Kidlington visiting the Gelnkinchie distillery, where they were treated to a behind-the-scenes tour and complimentary whisky tasting. After lunch, the band played on the distillery’s own bowling green for the enjoyment of staff, visitors and local people.

Castle finale

The tour was rounded off the following day with a trip to play at Edinburgh Castle where they gave a two-hour concert, listened to be hundreds of visitors.

This has been an unforgettable experience. The band has been working so hard on contest preparation that we sometimes need to remember how much enjoyment can come from making musicMD, Duncan Wilson

Unforgettable

Kidlington’s MD Duncan Wilson told 4BR: "This has been an unforgettable experience. The band has been working so hard on contest preparation that we sometimes need to remember how much enjoyment can come from making music.

We owe a huge debt of gratitude to our tour organiser Dave Taylor, who ensured it all went so smoothly."

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    


Ammal Bhatia

4BR Monday interview with Ammal Bhatia

January 12 • We talk to 26-year-old Ammal Bhatia, a Leverhulme Scholar completing his Masters in Conducting at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland who will compete in the NYBBGB Conductor Competition in Tidworth on the weekend.


4BR Podcast

4BR Review podcast — RNCM International Brass Band Festival

January 12 • Iwan Fox and Chris Thomas will be joined by RNCM International Brass Band Festival Artistic Director Dr David Thornton this Wednesday to focus on the forthcoming showcase event in Manchester.


Peter Moore

Moore spotlight in Birmingham, Barcelona and London

January 12 • Peter Moore will be joining forces with various friends and ensembles for a busy January series of performances — including an exciting Trivergence of troms.


Philip Jones

Philip Jones celebration in London

January 12 • Leading student brass ensembles will celebrate the life and legacy of the iconic trumpet player Philip Jones.


Newstead Brass - Brett Baker

Saturday 17 January • St Wilfrid's Church, . Kirkby-in-Ashfield NG17 8LA


The Hepworth Band - New Year Concert

Sunday 25 January • Christ Church, New Mill, Holmfirth HD9 7ER


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


Contest: London & Southern Counties Regional Championships

Saturday 21 March • Arts & Leisure Centre, Lytton Way, Stevenage SG1 1LZ


Otley Brass Association

January 11 • Tenor Trombone Player needed for 6 week holiday cover with Otley Brass Band.. Practice is Tuesday nights 7.30-9.30pm at Otley Courthouse, LS21 3AN


Cambrian Brass

January 11 • We are a friendly, inclusive and hard-working brass band, welcoming players of all ages and abilities. We are particularly keen to fill our Soprano Cornet, Flugelhorn, Tenor Horn, Euphonium and EEb Bass positions.


Putney and Wimbledon Brass Band

January 8 • Following our promotion to the 2nd section we are looking for a percussionist to do a bit of bing bonging on the timps for the regionals in March. We are a lovely band - everyone says so - so please get in touch. Rehearsals Weds from 1930 in Putney.


Ian Holmes

BA (hons), PGDip (RCM), ARCM, ALCM
Conductor, piano accompanist and educator


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd