*
banner

Pull the other one: An early form of brass playing performance art...

An unknown artist once recorded a performance idea that might or might not work at Brass in Concert...

denitstry
  Pull the other one... brass band performance art in the mid 19th century was a bit different..

Over the years brass band players have been asked to help a huge variety of performers ply their trade on stage — although none perhaps as oddly different as recorded by this painting that can be found at the Welcome Library in London shows.

Gruesome

Entitled, 'A company of itinerant toothdrawers performing on a stage', it hails from around 1860, and records a rather gruesome form of public dentistry.

The artist is unknown, although the painting is attributed to the 'French School' which recorded everyday scenes of late 18th and early 19th century rural life.

However, it seems the crowd is enjoying an early form of comedic performance art, aided by the musical accompaniment of a drummer dressed as a harlequin and a euphonium player in a kilt.

There is more spilt claret on the floor than a heavyweight boxing match, whilst the poor patient tries vainly to free himself of the torture by beat the dentist with a cane4BR

Spilt claret

There is more spilt claret on the floor than a heavyweight boxing match, whilst the poor patient tries vainly to free himself of the torture by beat the dentist with a cane.

What the euphonium player is performing as this goes along is anyone's guess.

If anyone can enlighten us then we will pass on the details to the museum…

Find out more:

https://artuk.org/discover/artworks/a-company-of-itinerant-toothdrawers-performing-on-a-stage-125889/view_as/grid/search/keyword:henry-brass/page/1

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    


Desford Colliery

Report & Result: 2025 National Championship of Great Britain

October 12 • Desford surprise the favourites to claim a fifth National title success on a day of new memories at the Royal Albert Hall.


ISB and Fodens

Friday night Gregson spotlights

October 10 • You will be spoilt for a Gregson choice between the ISB and Ian Bousfield and Foden's and Mike Lovatt if you are in London this evening.


World of Brass

Make sure you pick up the latest releases at the Albert Hall

October 10 • The World of Brass trade stand will be packed with musical goodies — from the study score of 'Symphony in Two Movements' to the latest releases from Cory, Tredegar, Brett Baker and the ISB.


Edward Gregson

The composer's viewpoint

October 10 • Edward Gregson talks about 'Symphony in Two Movements' to Dr Robert Childs — as well as previewing it on Radio 3 before the contest day itself.


Regent Hall Concerts - Regent Hall Band of the Salvation Army

Tuesday 14 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. WC1 2DJ W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - Berkeley Brass

Friday 17 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. WC1 2DJ W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - Wigfield Brass Quintet

Friday 17 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. WC1 2DJ W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - Regent Brass

Friday 17 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. WC1 2DJ W1C2DJ


Regent Brass - Brett Baker

Friday 17 October • The Salvation Army (Regent Hall), 275 Oxford Street, London WC1 2DJ


Dobcross Silver Band

October 13 • Currently 3rd Section National Champions and subsequent promotion to SECOND SECTION in 2026, we aim to add another PERCUSSIONIST to our award winning section. Dynamic all rounder preferred. You will love it here! Great rehearsals, gigs and socials!


Dobcross Silver Band

October 13 • Current 3rd Section National Champions and pending promotion to 2ND SECTION. We require the services of a competent PRINCIPAL CORNET PLAYER. Great opportunity for someone to show their skills and leadership qualities! Enjoyable events and socials!. Contact


Stretford Band

October 11 • Stretford Band (Manchester) has a terrific new MD. Now it needs you! We need bass, trombone and percussion but will welcome anyone who wants to play popular music without the stress of competing. Any ability any age.. Hope to see you soon.


Duncan A. Beckley

BA, MA
Conductor, adjudicator, band trainer and teacher


               

 © 2025 4barsrest.com Ltd