It has been announced that the world famous Tour de France cycling race will not start in its home country in 2014, but in Yorkshire!

Grand depart

The ‘Grand Départ’ will see the world’s finest professional cyclists take to the road in the heart of England before heading back over the Channel and eventual finish on the Champs Elysees in Paris a few weeks later.

‘Welcome to Yorkshire’ and Arts Council England are developing an ambitious and exciting cultural festival which will run alongside the famous event — and it is open to brass bands.

The festival takes place on the 5th/6th of July, with the ‘Grand Depart Cultural Festival’ running 100 days before the Tour arrives, beginning on 27th March.

Celebrate

The Festival aims to draw communities and artists together to celebrate the ‘Grand Départ’ as it passes through the largest county in the UK, with real opportunities for brass bands to play a part.

There will be 20 ‘Community Commissions’, of an award value of between £5,000 and £10,000, for memorable arts experiences which enable community-centred arts activity.

Yorkshire bands

All Yorkshire based brass bands and other arts organisations may apply to be part of this grand festival and collaborative projects are welcome.

Brass Band England’s Liaison Officer Rachel Veitch-Straw is looking to ensure that bands get their share of the money that is on offer, so if you are based in the White Rose county make sure you get in touch with her to find out more about this exciting opportunity.

Brass Band England’s Liaison Officer Rachel Veitch-Straw is looking to ensure that bands get their share of the money that is on offer4BR

Further details

For further details, see www.letouryorkshire.com/culturalfestival

Please contact:
Rachel Veitch-Straw
Brass Bands England Liaison Officer

Rachel@brassbandsengland.co.uk

Tel: 07803 147101