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Wednesday, 19 November, 2025
We’re delighted to announce that the 2026 National Youth Brass Band Championships of Great Britain (Youth Champs) has sold out all performance slots earlier than ever before — a milestone reflecting the growing confidence and momentum across the youth banding sector.
With capacity for around 40 groups, Youth Champs has long been the focal point of the youth brass banding calendar. This year marks a significant step-change: mid-November saw the first time the contest has sold out before December, and the earliest sell-out since the event began. This surge in demand underlines the value that bands place on reliable, high-quality opportunities delivered by BBE.
BBE Chief Executive Kenny Crookston commented:
“As many of us know, putting on a brass band contest is no mean feat. We are grateful to Arts Council England and long-standing sponsors such as Besson and Yamaha for their continued support, which allows Youth Champs to keep growing in strength.
This early sell-out shows the confidence that bands have in the event, and in BBE’s ability to deliver something worthwhile, supportive, and genuinely developmental for young musicians.
We will continue consulting the sector to gain opinions and expertise as we explore how Youth Champs can expand in future — while ensuring the event remains sustainable and of the highest quality. Alongside this, we’re committed to developing other youth performance opportunities and supporting bands with the logistical challenges of preparing for a national event.”
In recent years, we've made significant improvements to the event experience, including streamlined logistics, enhanced safeguarding procedures, professional volunteer coordination, and a focus on creating a welcoming atmosphere for both new and returning bands. This combination of sector trust and consistent delivery has been a major driver behind this year’s historic sell-out.
A waiting list is now open for bands who were unable to secure an initial place at Youth Champs; to join it, please email your organisation name, the section you wish to enter, and a rough number of performers to youthchamps@bbe.org.uk. The waiting list will close on 1 December and will operate on a first-come, first-served basis.
The 2026 championships will take place at King Edward’s School, Birmingham, on Saturday 28 March, and we hope many more supporters will join in celebrating the achievements of young players.
Kenny added:
“With a central location, we hope Youth Champs will give even more people the opportunity to see the future of banding in action. Whether you join the audience, volunteer, or support through sponsorship, you’ll be part of something special.”
Get involved
- Competing bands will be announced in December.
- Audience tickets will go on sale 23 February via the BBE website.
- Sponsorship and trade stand opportunities are now open – organisations interested in supporting the UK’s largest youth brass band contest are invited to email youthchamps@bbe.org.uk.
- Audience members and volunteers are warmly welcomed and play a vital role in the success of the event.
- Stay up to date — register for the BBE newsletter to receive the latest news and reminders.
We look forward to welcoming both new and returning youth bands to Birmingham in March for a celebration of youth music-making at its best.