Two of the banding world's great rivals will join concert forces for the first time in nearly a quarter of century next year at Huddersfield Town Hall.

Brighouse & Rastrick's famous twice yearly massed band concerts will be celebrating their 75th anniversary in 2020, and to mark the occasion they have invited their traditional contesting foes from just up the road in Queensbury to join them for the occasion.

First time since 1995

It will be the first time since 1995 that Black Dyke will have shared the stage with the West Riding band at the event, which was first held in 1944.

Ever since, the concerts in March and October have attracted packed audiences to the hall to hear the band joined by ensembles, world class soloists and celebrated guest conductors from all over the UK and beyond.

It will be the first time since 1995 that Black Dyke will have shared the stage with the West Riding band at the event, which was first held in 19444BR

One of each

The band's currently contain players who have played with each ensemble — as well as including partners Michael Cavangh and Laura Conway (above)

The last appearance was conducted by Frank Renton, but on this occasion on March 28th, Brighouse & Rastrick has generously offered the baton to Black Dyke's Prof Nicholas Childs.