In June '22 the 'Brass Band Conductors' Association' held the final of their annual International Conducting Competition in Eccles. After a rigorous short-listing process the winner was announced as Swiss conductor Boris Oppliger.
30-year-old Boris has already accumulated extensive experience after gaining his Masters in Conducting & Instrumental Pedagogy from Bern University in 2020 and is the current Musical Director of the Swiss first division band Ensemble de Cuivres la Covatte Coeuve, Fanfare de Montsevelier ensemble and the mixed choir 'Val Terbi en coeuve'. As well as these appointments he also organises annual wind ensemble projects in the city of Bern and chairs the music commission of the Federation of Brass Bands of Ajoie.
As part of his prize, Boris travelled to Sandbach, to assist Russell Gray as he worked with Foden's in preparation for their National's title defence at the Royal Albert Hall.
On the eve of the Nationals, Foden's gave their annual Pre-National Gala Concert at the Regent Hall which included a performance of the National's test-piece 'Hyperlink' with composer Peter Graham giving a short introduction of his work. Boris conducted a number of pieces at this concert, along with Russell. Foden's went on to win the National's the following day at the Royal Albert Hall.
Russell Gray commented
‘I was delighted to welcome Boris to assist me in the preparations for our Finals' appearance this year. He has great musicality and having an extra ears in the band room was very helpful. As President of the Brass Band Conductors' Association I am also very proud of the fact that our annual competition is producing winners of such a high standard and attracting entrants from all around the globe. I want to thank Foden's Band for their support and providing this platform for Boris to show the brass band world just what a talent he is.
For more information about the Brass Band Conductors’ Association visit bbca.uk