The BBCA’s annual flagship conducting competition brings in entries from all over the world. From those who found themselves at the front of a band by accident in need of some feedback and guidance to more experienced conductors who have gone on to conduct top bands and orchestras.
Maybe conducting competitions haven’t been on your radar before? Just as bands enter contests to improve their playing, bring on their technique, see how they fare against the competition and move them on to new levels, there is a great deal to be gained from taking part in a conducting competition.
Valuable feedback
Starting with your video entry. Think what you can learn by watching yourself back (however painful!) then consider how much more you can learn from an experienced adjudicator giving you feedback on your video. See tips from Russell Gray on ‘how to create a conducting video’.
Chance to conduct a championship band
For those who reach the semi-final the experience of being in control of the championship Hammonds Band playing a test-piece is an experience not to be missed! One-to-one verbal feedback from an adjudicator will inspire you to raise your game.
The deserving finalists get to show their versatility by rehearsing then conducting the excellent Eccles Borough Band at the event’s Gala Concert in a concert item, finishing with the award ceremony.
The sky’s the limit!
The winner will get the opportunity to rehearse and conduct a championship band at a live performance, receive £200, a year’s membership of BBCA and a glass plaque. In 2022 winner Boris Oppliger worked with Russell Gray on Foden’s preparation for their Nationals win and conducted them in concert at the Regent Hall the night before. Who knows what this could lead to!
Find out more and enter the 2023 BBCA Conducting Competition. (BBCA member discounts apply). Join the BBCA.
Closing date: Midnight, Thursday 13 April