*
banner

Brookwright Music launches new small ensemble composition competition

The critically acclaimed publisher launches a new competition to boost the repertoire for small brass ensembles.

Brookwright
  The competition aims to add to the repertoire for smaller ensembles

BrookWright Music has announced the launch of its inaugural International Brass Ensemble Composer Competition.

It follows the success of last year's composition competition, with BrookWright now offering the same exiting publishing opportunities for works for small brass ensemble.

Success

Speaking about the competition, founder Andrew Wainwright told 4BR: "We're delighted to be launching this competition following the success of last year's competition, which resulted in a combined total of nearly 10,000 views for the five finalists' videos.

With small ensembles likely to provide an ideal rehearsal and performance outlet in the future, we are looking to champion new music for chamber groups.

Innovative

He added: "The last year has been particularly difficult for composers who haven't had the opportunity to have their music performed, so we hope this initiative will help showcase their music in an innovative way.

We very much look forward to seeing what everyone come up with!"

Prizes

The overall winner will receive $500 US in cash, a download license to the music playback programme NotePerformer, publication of their work through BrookWright Music with associated royalties, and a virtual video and audio recording by an All-star Ensemble comprising some of BrookWright's renowned 'Artists in Association'.

The five finalists will also have 'follow-the-score' videos of their pieces produced using NotePerformer and shared at www.brookwrightmusic.com YouTube and various social media platforms.

In addition, a 'Public Commendation Prize' will be awarded to the finalist with the most 'likes' at www.brookwrightmusic.com whilst winning $150 US in cash.

Composers are invited to submit a brass ensemble composition/arrangement or multiple compositions/arrangements of no more than 5 minutes duration4BR

Judges & Criteria

The competition will be judged by an esteemed panel of experts — James Curnow, Dr Liz Lane and Paul Hindmarsh.

Composers are invited to submit a brass ensemble composition/arrangement or multiple compositions/arrangements of no more than 5 minutes duration.

Submissions should not already be published, but they do not necessarily need to be newly composed or arranged works.

Instrumentation is flexible, but should include any combination of the following: Cornet/Trumpet, French Horn, Tenor Horn, Baritone, Trombone, Euphonium and Tuba

It should be scored for between 4 and 6 players.

An optional Percussion part for a single player may be included.

There are no restrictions on the style of the music.

Further information:

The closing date for entries is Friday 23rd July at 11.59pm Central Standard Time (CST).

To enter go to: www.brookwrightmusic.com/about-3

Become a supporter and help make our future secure.

4barsrest continues to be a proudly independent voice. There are no paywalls to overcome to be able to enjoy what we do to keep our journalism at the heart of the brass banding world. Support us with a one-off donation or subscribe from just £2.50 per month.

Support us    


Megan Bousfield

4BR Friday interview with Megan Bousfield

January 9 • 4BR Editor Iwan Fox talks to NYBBGB Conductor Competition finalist Megan Bousfield.


Yorkshire

Yorkshire Championship schedule confirmed

January 9 • There will be two days of exciting Yorkshire banding battles in Huddersfield to enjoy.


Dai Thomas

Tredegar look to new business lead for 150th anniversary

January 9 • Welsh champions will take a new approach to their business outlook as their celebrate their 150th anniversary this year.


Next Step Films

Compilation album on offer from NXTOD

January 9 • There are plenty of highlights to enjoy from 2025 — and its all free from the NXTOD media platform.


Newstead Brass - Brett Baker

Saturday 17 January • St Wilfrid's Church, . Kirkby-in-Ashfield NG17 8LA


The Hepworth Band - New Year Concert

Sunday 25 January • Christ Church, New Mill, Holmfirth HD9 7ER


Contest: Norwegian National Brass Band Championships

Friday 6 February • Grieghallen, Bergen, N-5015 N-5015


Contest: Norwegian National Brass Band Championships

Saturday 7 February • Grieghallen, Bergen, N-5015 N-5015


Contest: London & Southern Counties Regional Championships

Saturday 21 March • Arts & Leisure Centre, Lytton Way, Stevenage SG1 1LZ


Putney and Wimbledon Brass Band

January 8 • Following our promotion to the 2nd section we are looking for a percussionist to do a bit of bing bonging on the timps for the regionals in March. We are a lovely band - everyone says so - so please get in touch. Rehearsals Weds from 1930 in Putney.


Mid Rhondda Band

January 6 • Mid Rhondda Band are currently looking for a trombone player and percussionists to join the team. We are a friendly, welcoming 3rd section band working towards competing in the Welsh Area in March. We also have a variety of events booked for 2026.


The Marple Band

January 6 • Bb Bass and Tuned Percussionist vacancies to join our fabulous band. We are a friendly, ambitious 2nd Section band, starting an exciting new year.


Gordon Eddison

B Ed (Hons). Member AoBBA.
Conductor and Adjudicator.


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd