*
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    


Italian Brass Band

Italian Brass Band adds to conductor experience

October 11 • The Italian Brass Band has played its part in giving conductors a very different musical experience.


West Wales BBA

Report & Results: 2026 West Wales BBA Festival

October 11 • Parc & Dare continues its run of prize-winning form as Markham & District, Cwmtawe, Gwaun-Cae-Gurwen and Llanharan & Bryncae Brass claim the honours in Cefneithin.


Elland

All ages of playing experience showcase excellence in Elland

October 11 • There was a super day of competitive solo, duet and quartet action on show at Elland Silver Band's popular event.


Stephen Cobb

Cobb to lead Kingdom Triumphant workshop

October 11 • Dr Stephen Cobb will lead a workshop on Eric Ball's iconic work — and its open to everyone to be part of for free.


Regent Hall Concerts - Regent Brass

Saturday 10 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Hathersage Band - Hathersage Village Autumn Concert

Saturday 10 October • Hathersage Methodist Church, Main Road, Hathersage S32 1BB


Garforth Brass - Annual Chairman's Charity Concert

Saturday 10 October • Miners Welfare Hall. 56 Main Street. Garforth . Leeds. LS25 1AA LS25 1AA


Bedford Town Band - Autumn Concert also featuring our Academy

Saturday 10 October • Putnoe Heights Church. Putnoe Heights. Bedford MK41 8EB


Regent Hall Concerts - Trafalgar Brass

Thursday 15 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Tintwistle Band

October 11 • We are looking for a repiano cornet player to help complete the team. We are a second section band and rehearse Monday and Thursday 8-10pm at our own bandroom on Old Road in Tintwistle. We perform a variety of concerts and contests all year round.


Epping Forest Band

October 8 • Euphonium and solo horn wanted to join our friendly sociable 2nd section band. Based in Essex with close links to the M11 and the underground central line. Instrument's provided of required


Bedford Town Band

October 8 • Bedford Town Band are looking to recruit a Solo trombone and Repiano cornet . We are playing at the Wychavon Contest in a few weeks and are looking to be in the frame at the 1st Section Regionals . Rehearsals Thursday 7.45 at Castle Newnham School.


Ian Holmes

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


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd