Last weekend saw the return of The Brass Band Conference as an in-person event, providing the opportunity for banders from across the country to learn, share, and network. After going online during the pandemic, the annual conference has now established itself as a hybrid event, with the additional option of joining online in order to maintain access for as many people as possible.
The day saw a range of delegates attend as well as journalists from 4barsrest, British Bandsman, and Brass Band World (joining virtualy). British Bandsman said: "Those who didn't go, you missed a great day".
"We're not lying when we say that this [banding] changes lives."
Soloist, pedagogue, and former brass bander Ian Bousfield opened the event with a thought-provoking Keynote Speech on the day’s theme of Banding for Life. As well advocating passionately for youth provision, Ian touched on a range of subjects including repertoire, community, and maintaining relevance within society.
Another highlight of the day was the presentation of the Brass Bands England Awards 2022 to a group of deserving winners.
Throughout the day, Brass Bands England gave a number of updates and announcements including our new Members Working Group for the banding sector and continued #BrassBandsAtChristmas Crowdfunder campaign, both currently open for individuals and bands to participate in.
Photos of the day can be viewed on The Brass Band Conference Flickr account.
Event feedback
We are pleased to see that 100% of delegates who completed the feedback survey said that they went away with specific ideas and actions they will take to their band. We hope that the sharing of ideas and inspiration will continue via our future events, and within the Brass Bands England Facebook Group, which anyone can join. If you attended the event and haven’t provided feedback yet, you can do so via the Conference feedback form.
Recordings and resources
Many resources from the event are already available in our Member Resources library, recordings of sessions that took place in the main hall will be added in November. Bands and individuals can find out more about joining Brass Bands England on our website.
Conference 2023
We are pleased to confirm that next year's conference will take place at The University of Huddersfield on Saturday 7 October 2023 on the theme of ‘Heritage and Innovation’. To be kept up to date on when sales open please register for BBE news.