Foden's Band has announced details of its annual Open Solo, Duet & Quartet championships to be held in Sandbach on the 3rd November.

Sponsored by Besson alongside a raft of high profile supporters, it will be the eighth time the event, which regularly attracts competitors from the UK, Europe and the rest of the world, has been held.

Blue Riband

The Blue Riband 'Open Class' attracts players of the highest calibre, with horn star Paul Bennett winning the title for the last two years.

As always there will be different classes for age groups and genres — all aimed at giving everyone a great experience of friendly competition, including for the first time a special 'Parent & Child' duet class.

New quartet prize

It's also hoped that the trend for quartet playing continues to rise.

A special prize will be awarded this year in the form of a brand new composition written by Jonathan Bates to the winner of the '11 years and under' age group. Quartets in this section will only be required to play 2 verses of any hymn from the famous 'Red Hymn Book' — taking away the problem of finding a suitable piece to play.

Once again the event will be judged by top class musicians, whilst there are fantastic accompanists on hand too.

As always there will be different classes for age groups and genres — all aimed at giving everyone a great experience of friendly competition, including for the first time a special 'Parent & Child' duet class4BR

Bursary

A Foden's spokesperson told 4BR: "We're very grateful that one of our generous patrons has given a cash bursary as the prize in the '17 to 19 years of age Slow Melody' class.

The winner not only claims the Bryan Tait Trophy, but will also have a new solo written for them by composer Lee Morris.

Bryan was an outstanding principal cornet, and his son, Phillip, offered to present his father's trophy, which will go to a cornet player. In addition, new Foden's partner, GARD, are kindly donating additional prizes so, along with our huge array of trophies and awards, we aim to reward as many musicians as possible for their super efforts."

Entry details

Details of this year's competition can be obtained by e-mailing Fiona Rolfe at: fiona-rolfe@hotmail.co.uk or downloading an entry form from the Foden's Band website at: http://www.fodensband.co.uk/youth-band/solo-contest/