*
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    


4BR Review

4BR Review: Annual Awards nominations broadcast

December 16 • The long list nominees for the 2025 4BR Awards will be revealed in a special live broadcast on Wednesday evening at 7.00pm — so why not join us and see if you agree with our choices.


Oldroyd

Kennedy signing adds to Oldroyd Opus

December 16 • The award winning cooperation band flugel star Stephanie Kennedy has been welcomed as a new Oldroyd Musical Instruments Performance Artist.


Frans Violet

Willebroek reaches new audiences with primetime television slot

December 16 • The talents of the European champion were enjoyed by a nationwide television audience in Belgium.


We are going on a bear hunt

Leyland to go on a bear hunt...

December 16 • There will be plenty of family fun in 2026 for supporters of Leyland Band — as they lead the musical accompaniment to a classic bear hunt.


Garforth Brass - Strawberry Fields Primary School

Friday 5 December • Garforth Methodist Church,. Church Lane,. Garforth,. Leeds LS25 1NW


The Hepworth Band - Christmas Brass & Voices

Saturday 6 December • Thornhill Parish Church, Dewsbury WF12 0JZ


Petworth Town Band - Petworth Town Band Christmas Event

Saturday 6 December • Petworth Town Centre GU28 OAD


Haverhill Silver Band - Family Christmas Concert

Sunday 7 December • Castle Manor Academy, Haverhill CB9 9JE


Petworth Town Band - PetworthTown Band Christmas Concert

Saturday 13 December • St Mary’s Church Petworth GU28 OAD


wantage silver band

December 17 • . Wantage Concert Brass (First Section) are looking to fill the positions of Solo Euphonium, First Baritone and Bass Trombone ASAP. Rehearsals are on Tuesday and Friday, 7:30-9:30pm, led by their dynamic MD Daniel Hall..


Banks Brass Band

December 16 • Merry Christmas from Banks Brass Band, a friendly non-contesting Band near Southport. We are looking for experienced players to strengthen our euphonium, trombone and bass rows. Rehearsals: Mondays 8.00-9.30 in the Hub@Banks community centre, PR4 8BL.


Cambrian Brass

December 15 • We are a hard-working, positive and welcoming brass band, proudly inclusive and open to players of all experience levels. As we prepare for the forthcoming Regional Championships, we currently have a vacancy for a Solo Cornet player.


Kevin Wadsworth


Conductor, adjudicator, teacher (ABBA)


               

 © 2025 4barsrest.com Ltd