The Yorkshire Youth Brass Band has announced an exciting sponsorship partnership with the Geneva Group.

Geneva will take over from Besson in supporting one of the most successful youth initiatives in UK banding — one which under the direction of Black Dyke Director of Music Prof Nicholas Childs and players such as Richard Marshall and Brett Baker has made a huge impact on the development of grass roots banding in the region and beyond.

Huge endorsement

Speaking to 4BR, Prof Childs said: "This is a huge endorsement of the work that has now been undertaken as part of the Black Dyke family for 14 years. It reinforces our commitment to developing players directly through their home bands, encouraging them to return from our courses inspired to become better players.

I'm delighted with the support that will be given by Geneva Group and how it will help us continue with our work."

Integral part

The 60 strong ensemble attracts players from Yorkshire as well as the North West and North East of England and the north Midlands.

Last weekend they were an integral part of the annual Black Dykes Festival of Brass at Leeds Town Hall, performing to a packed audience and joined by the combined forces of six other bands, with Prof Nicholas Childs announcing the partnership during the concert in front of an impressive display of the company's market leading instruments.

At Geneva we are committed to investing in the future of brass bands and therefore investing in the leading youth bands in the country. The Yorkshire Youth band was the obvious choiceGeneva Group

Obvious choice

In response, Tim Oldroyd CEO of Geneva Group told 4BR: "At Geneva we are committed to investing in the future of brass bands and therefore investing in the leading youth bands in the country. The Yorkshire Youth band was the obvious choice.

We look forward to partnering with the band and its tutors over the coming months to strengthen our position as a leading instrument brand in the brass band movement."

Sales Manager for Geneva Group Simon Miller added: "Straight away we had some great feedback and interest from parents, players and admirers of our instruments.

I think the event is a superb kick-start for our commitment to developing young players within the brass band movement."