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Event date
Starts: Wednesday, 12 November, 2025 - 19:00Ends: Wednesday, 12 November, 2025 - 20:30
Event description
An Evening with Frank Renton – A rare opportunity, presented by the Brass Band Conductors’ Association
The Brass Band Conductors’ Association’s Evening With event is a highlight of the brass band calendar – a special, once-a-year occasion that shines a spotlight on some of the most influential figures in the brass band world. Past guests have included legends such as James Shepherd, Derek Broadbent, and Ian Porthouse.
This year, we are proud to present Frank Renton – a towering presence in British brass banding, known for his distinctive voice, passion for music, and decades of dedication to the art form.
From his early days in the cornet section of the Black Dyke Band and the National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain to leading the Royal Military School of Music as a Lt. Colonel, Frank’s career has been rich, varied, and inspiring.
Don’t miss this rare chance to spend an evening in conversation with one of the true greats. With only one Evening With each year, virtual seats are limited – book early to avoid disappointment.
More about Frank
After studying at the Royal Manchester College of Music, Frank joined the Band of the Royal Horse Guards, where he rose from cornet player to Principal Director of Music for the Army and Director of the Royal Military School of Music at Kneller Hall.
He worked with several top bands, most notably Grimethorpe, with whom he won both the British Open and National Championships and produced a number of acclaimed recordings. He also performed with the renowned James Shepherd Versatile Brass.
In 1992, Frank shifted focus to a freelance career as a conductor and writer. He became the long-serving presenter of Listen to the Band on BBC Radio 2 – a role he held for 23 years – and continues to host Brass in Concert to this day.
BBCA Exec member Matt Ryan will host this event.
Join online
This session will be delivered using the Zoom Webinar platform and will include ample opportunity for attendees to ask questions of the presenters. This session will be recorded and made available in the BBE Member Resources library following the session.
The Brass Band Conductors’ Association is focused on providing support and bringing together conductors and those interested in picking up the baton from all over the world. BBCA’s 100+ members have access to a mentoring scheme, member directory and a free professional DBS check alongside ongoing resources and peer support. Join the Brass Band Conductors’ Association (with individual membership of Brass Bands England) for £50 a year.
For more information email bbca@bbe.org.uk