*
banner

Saxhorn Fest adds youth and experience to attractions

The forthcoming Saxhorn Festival in north Yorkshire is going to be packed with attractions for players of all ages and experience — so why not sign up and get inspired by the best...

Saxhorn
  Prof Philip Wilby and Fiona Casewell add to the attractions at the forthcoming Saxhorn Fest event

The forthcoming tenor horn and baritone 'Saxhorn Fest' has announced a number of special guests who will take part in the event, along with details of the soloists to be featured in its evening recital concert.

The festival will take place on Saturday 2nd February in the North Yorkshire market town of Richmond (10.30am — 5.00pm), based at the excellent facilities of the British Army bandroom at Catterick Garrison (DL9 3LR).

Youth and experience

The renowned composer Prof Philip Wilby will be joining the day as a guest speaker to share his experience and knowledge with those in attendance. A number of his compositions will also feature throughout the festival.

In addition, Reg Vardy baritone player Fiona Casewell will lead the youth focus element, aimed specifically at players up to the age of 18.

Fiona's renowned teaching approach has inspired countless youngsters over the years, and will provide an outstanding opportunity for aspiring players to gain further motivation to enhance their development.

A touch of jazz

With generous support from partners Band Supplies, Besson and Yamaha, the festival has been able to add to the number of attractions for players of all ages and abilities — from workshops and guests to a jazz set by the band '4 Odd Dogs' featuring tenor horn player Nat Martin of Foden's.

Tickets are also available to the general public for the 7.00pm 'Evening Recital' at St Mary's Church in Richmond (DL10 7AQ).

The concert will feature Michael Cavanagh (Grimethorpe Colliery, A4 Brass Quartet), plus festival founders Katrina Marzella (Black Dyke), Helen Varley (Grimethorpe Colliery) alongside accompanist Ruth Webb. The concert will include a variety of solo and ensemble pieces especially written or arranged for the event.

As well as featuring music by composers Prof Philip Wilby and Liz Lane the festival will also premiere a new composition entitled 'Minibeasts' for quartet and piano, written by award winning composer Andy Wareham.

The ethos of the festival is about supporting players of all abilities during the day, and championing fantastic talent in the eveningHelen Varley

All ages and abilities

Speaking to 4BR, Helen Varley said: "The ethos of the festival is about supporting players of all abilities during the day, and championing fantastic talent in the evening.

Andy's new composition will be one of many highlights of the day and we're really looking forward to premiering such a creative new work."

The daytime event is open to all tenor horn and baritone players of any age or ability.

Tickets:

Tickets for the full day are between £15 & £20 (concessions for students in full time education, disabled persons and military personnel) and also includes lunch.

There are also a limited number of tickets available for observers (e.g. for parents).
Tickets are also available to the general public for the Evening Recital (£7 & £10).

Full ticket details for the workshops and evening recital are available online at: http://www.neromusicpress.com/saxhorn-fest-2019.html

Tickets for the evening recital are also available from Marrianne Garbutt on 07886176511.

More information:

E-mail: saxhornfest@gmail.com
Facebook: Saxhorn Fest (public group)
Twitter: #saxhornfest

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    


Huddersfield

Huddersfield Uni strengthens link with Army

January 11 • The student connection between the University of Huddersfield Wind Band and the Band of the Royal Yorkshire Regiment continues to be strengthened under MD Jim Fieldhouse.


Sine Nomiee

Brookwright Music: Sine Nomine (Vaughan Williams arr. Andrew Wainwright)

January 11 • A wonderful set of four contrasting variations based on 'For all the Saints' by Ralph Vaughan Williams.


Matthew Jones

OBE recognition for Matthew Jones

January 11 • The Senior Producer and Deputy Chief Executive of National Youth Arts Wales has been awarded the OBE in the recent New Year Honours List.


Coalburn

Coalburn awards youth and experience

January 11 • The annual Coalburn Silver Band awards night saw accolades and recognition from the beginners to the most experienced performers.


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


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.


Mid Rhondda Band

January 6 • Mid Rhondda Band are currently looking for a trombone player and percussionists to join the team. We are a friendly, welcoming 3rd section band working towards competing in the Welsh Area in March. We also have a variety of events booked for 2026.


The Marple Band

January 6 • Bb Bass and Tuned Percussionist vacancies to join our fabulous band. We are a friendly, ambitious 2nd Section band, starting an exciting new year.


Lt Col David Barringer MBE

BMus (Hons)
Conductor and adjudicator


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd