*
banner

New youth development takes off in Rhondda Valley

A joint youth band development has taken off in the Rhondda Valley with the twin led Rhondda Fach Youth Band.

RFYB
 

Young brass and percussion players from across the Rhondda Fach valley and beyond in South Wales will now have the chance to learn to play in a brass band thanks to a new joint initiative between the Tylorstown and Ynyshir Bands.

First rehearsal

The new Rhondda Fach Youth Band was launched in November, and recently held its first rehearsal in the Ynyshir bandroom.

Both bands told 4BR that they are excited about a joint venture that will also enable the Junior sections of both bands, together with additional young players from the local community to compete as a youth band.

Enjoy

Derek Andrews of Ynyshir, and Rhondda Fach Youth Band’s main conductor, told 4BR: “Playing in a musical group is an experience all young people should be able to enjoy, and we’d welcome young players looking to start to learn as well as youngsters looking to gain further experience.”

Angela Westacaott of the Tylorstown added: “Brass banding offers a unique way to take part in a range of activities. This great joint initiative provides the opportunity to learn how to work together whilst developing personal talents and abilities.”

This great joint initiative provides the opportunity to learn how to work together whilst developing personal talents and abilitiesAngela Westacaott, Tylorstown Band

First engagement

The Rhondda Fach Youth Band will take part in their first engagement on Thursday 11th December in St John's Church, Cymmer, Porth.

Players and anyone interested in the band can find out more at: www.facebook.com/RhonddaBachYouthBand

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    


Blackford

Orbital set for publishing take-off

August 5 • The acclaimed major work from composer Richard Blackford will be available for bands to purchase from 4th September.


BBSS

BBSS delegates prepare for 40th anniversary concert

August 5 • Over 160 musicians from 12 countries will provide the 40th anniversary celebrations on the Brass Band Summer School course in Gloucestershire on Friday.


Fairlop Brass

Busy Fairlop help make brass on the grass pay

August 5 • Fairlop Brass has been busy providing entertainment for good causes and great people.


DOODLES

Don't be late to get prepared

August 5 • Doodles Mouthpiece replating services is reminding players to get that essential summer refurbishment done in time for the start of the second half of the contesting year.


Sherborne Town Band - Free Summer Concert- Trowbridge Park

Sunday 9 August • Summer Concert- Trowbridge Park BA14 8AH


Regent Hall Concerts - Cross Bones Trombone Quintet

Friday 21 August • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Sherborne Town Band - Free-Music in the park

Sunday 23 August • Sherborne, Dorset-Pageant Gardens DT9 3NP


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


Brunel Brass Organisation

August 5 • Brunel Brass is looking for a SOLO HORN to complete the band. Challenging for promotion to the Championship Section in 2027 and achieving our highest ever result at the British Open Senior Trophy in 2026, it's an exciting time to join the band!


Wantage Silver Band

August 5 • Wantage Band (Championship Section) are looking for a BACK ROW CORNET player to complete the band. As current Welsh Open Champions and being placed third in Stevenage, it's an exciting time to join the band with a fantastic schedule of concerts coming up.


Alder Valley Brass

August 4 • Alder Valley Brass, an ambitious, busy and sociable 2nd section band seek a BBb bass . We rehearse Mon & Thu 8-10pm in Farnham. New MD Ollie Hallstead-Brooks starts with us in September. Come and join the team!


Kevin Wadsworth


Conductor, adjudicator, teacher (ABBA)


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd