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Thursday, 5 June, 2025
BBCA Conducting Competition 2025 semi-finalists revealed
The Brass Band Conductors’ Association has announced its ten outstanding semi-finalists selected for the 2025 BBCA Conducting Competition - the organisation's premier annual event.
Following a competitive video audition round, these talented conductors have earned their place in the live semi-final stage. Meet the rising stars who will take centre stage:
- Brecht Schepers
- Sara Maganzini
- Rita Arendz
- Jan Mueller
- Hannah Caraker
- Edward Mylechreest
- Gary Perrin
- Si Nok Wong
- Uilson Castro
- Anthony Smith
Catch a sneak peek at their passion and precision in action.
Mark your calendars: the semi-final takes place on Saturday 28 June at Halifax Minster, West Yorkshire. Free and open from 11:15am, the semi-final will see each conductor rehearse the renowned Hammonds Band on one of two test pieces: 'In Memoriam RK' by Elgar Howarth, or 'Variations' by Thea Musgrave. Rehearsals will take place under the watchful eye of adjudicators Eduardo Portal and Katrina Marzella-Wheeler, who will be responsible for selecting the five conductors that will go through to the evening's Gala concert final where they will conduct Elland Silver Band.
BBCA Chair, James Holt, commented: "It's fantastic that we've had such a high-class field of entrants from around the globe. This is an excellent opportunity for conductors to work with outstanding bands and get feedback from professionals in their field, and I am sure it will be a great day for those involved. The winner will have a unique opportunity to work with Russell Gray and rehearse and perform conducting the Foden's Band. Good luck to all those involved!"
You can also join the evening event at 7:30pm for the competition final Gala Concert at Halifax Minster themed 'Lights, Camera, Action' featuring Elland Silver Band. The concert will feature the five chosen finalists leading the Elland Silver Band through their final piece interspersed with other entertaining concer items culminating in the announcement of this year's winner. Tickets are available from the Halifax Minster website and shop priced at £10, with free entry for under 16s.
The BBCA conducting competition is sponsored by Yamaha.
For more information, contact bbca@bbe.org.uk