Howard Snell becomes an 'Honorary Vice President'
Mark Wilkinson • February 17, 2026

All at Foden's are delighted that Howard Snell has accepted their offer to become an 'Honorary Vice President' of the band.
Howard needs no introduction to the world of brass bands — or indeed to the wider musical community. His distinguished career as a conductor, performer and educator has left an indelible mark on the brass band movement, both nationally and internationally.
He is, of course, a very special figure in the history of Foden’s Band. His leadership and musical influence during his time with the Band contributed significantly to their artistic development and success, and his continued association with Foden’s is something held in the highest regard.

Tickets are now on sale for the band's return visit to the beautiful St Mary's Church in Stafford - Last years event was sold out so please book early to avoid disappointment! St Mary’s Church, Stafford Saturday 4th July 7:00pm Tickets available here: https://www.ticketsource.com/st-marys-festival/fodens-band/e-emrkgg

Last weekend Michael Fowles and the Foden's team lead a training day at Bromsgrove School organised by the Wychavon Festival of Brass The day consisted of full and sectional rehearsals, a Question and Answers session followed by a short concert for parents. Music performed included - The March ‘Home Again’ ‘Little Prayer’ and ‘The Journal of Phileas Fogg’ Thank you to everyone who attended!!

Foden's are looking forward to welcoming the fantastic Oslofjord Band (from Norway) this June, as they join the band on stage alongside the talented Foden's Youth Band! Each band will perform a short concert before coming together for a number of exciting joint items! Sandbach School, Crewe Rd, Sandbach 28th June 2:00pm Pay on the door (Free admission to under 18’s) This promises to be a wonderful afternoon of brass music and friendship!

Sandbach Council are delighted to announce the return of 'Party in the Park' which once again features Foden's The event takes place on the 13 th June - Sandbach Park between 3pm - 8pm (with gates opening at 2pm) Further info - www.sandbach.gov.uk/party-in-the-park/ Event link: https://fb.me/e/599lQOVOZ How to get your tickets (by Monday 8th June) - Tickets are available from the Town Hall office (card payments only), or through the Council website: www.sandbach.gov.uk/event-tickets/ £12.50 adults (16+) £5 children (2-16) Family ticket £30 (2 adults & 2 children) Under 2’s go free (Please note that tickets will not be sold on the gate and must be bought in advance)

The band had an productive couple of days in the recording studio last weekend recording not one, but TWO CDs for release later this year! The recording was undertaken by World of Brass and included a Tuba Concerto with the phenomenal Ross Knight. Thanks to Paul Hindmarsh for coordinating both projects which also sees Foden's return to the studio shortly to complete the project

Where to see the band in action! 7/6 - Elgar International Festival of Brass - https://www.eifob.org.uk/ 13/6 - Sandbach Park - https://sandbach.gov.uk/party-in-the-park/ 19/6 - Victoria Hall, Hanley - https://www.priorbooking.com/u/fodens 20/6 - St Regis Academy, Wolverhampton - admin@stregisacademy.org 28/6 - Sandbach School with Foden's Youth and Oslofjord Brass (Pay on the door) 4/7 - @St Mary's Church, Stafford - https://www.ticketsource.com/st.../fodens-band/e-emrkgg 11/7 - Congleton Town Hall (With Matt Ford - https://www.priorbooking.com/u/fodens

Foden's are delighted to work alongside theirpartner 'Entrust Music Service Staffordshire' to present 'Brass In Harmony' The concert will take on the 19th June in themagnificent 'Victoria Hall, Hanley' featuring Foden's Band and Audley Brass Rode Hall Silver Band Trentham Brass Band Mereside Brass Penkhull Village Brass Foden's Community Band Thank you to event sponsor 'Joseph Lymer &Son and Horne Brothers Independent Family Funeral Directors Tickets available via https://www.priorbooking.com/u/fodens

Foden’s are saddened to share the passing of former Soprano player and Librarian, Granville Jennings, shortly after his 96th birthday. Granville first joined Foden’s in 1963 remaining with the band for 10 years before joining Royal Doulton and Berisfords. He returned to Foden’s in 1995 as their Librarian, a role he continued in until recently, whilst also playing an active part in the Foden's Community Band. Granville’s dedication, friendship and years of service to the band will be fondly remembered by all who knew him. Everyone at Foden’s sends their sincere condolences and best wishes to his daughter Barbara and family at this sad time. Personal Stories - Granville Jennings https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2xUx3O-FWSk&t=10s Funeral details will be posted when known



