- Free and discounted opportunities for musicians of all ages
- Be inspired by other young performers and discover musical progression routes
- Experience some of the very best brass players from the UK and beyond
For the first time in 15 years, the European Brass Band Festival is coming to England, offering a wealth of varied experiences for performers and listeners of all ages. In particular, though, the event offers a number of exciting opportunities for young brass players. Here we highlight our Top Pick of the best Festival events for young people.
From 28 April - 1 May, Birmingham will host a series of ticketed concerts and contests, alongside a completely free Outdoor Stage showcasing the full spectrum of what brass banding has to offer.
Brass Bands England CEO Kenny Crookston commented: “With YouTube stars, military bands, workshops, contests and free outdoor performances, all alongside some of the very best bands from across Europe, each day of the Festival brings something new for young people looking to develop their musicianship or simply discover something new.”
A focus on career opportunities in music will begin at the Festival's opening concert on Thursday 28 April, with an inspiring mix of young talent and banding excellence as The Band of HM Royal Marines are joined by The National Youth Brass Band of Great Britain. Under 16’s can attend for free with a paying adult and proceeds will go to initiatives supporting the development of young brass musicians.
On Friday 29 April, budding composers can be inspired by a trio of new works from Europe's best young composers, performed by the UK's most famous brass band. The Grimethorpe Colliery Band, who rose to international fame in the 1995 classic hit film Brassed Off, will premiere pieces for brass band from finalists of this year’s European Composers Competition.
On Saturday 30 April, the very best young brass players from across Europe will take to the Symphony Hall stage for the European Youth Brass Band Competition. Elland Silver Youth Brass Band will be representing England, with Wardle Academy Youth Band and Youth Brass 2000 also making a return as defending champions.
Across the festival weekend, make sure to venture outside the concert hall to visit the diverse range of performers on the free Outdoor Stage in Centenary Square. Performers will include The European Youth Brass Band, a collection of the finest young brass and percussion players from across the continent.
For those with fuel still left in the tank, Sunday 1 May will see the Festival close with a Gala Concert featuring ground-breaking musical collaboration to remember, when YouTube star and collaborator with chart-topping musician, Louis Dowdeswell, will join forces with the world’s no. #1 ranked brass band, the Cory Band.
For full listings for the European Brass Band Festival please visit the B:music website.