The Brass in Concert Championship is heading for record ticket sales with more than a month remaining before competing bands take to the stage at Sage Gateshead.
It is understood that over 80% of the seats have already been snapped up for the 45th contest which takes place on Saturday 19th November.
Quality attractions
Held in association with Yamaha, Banks Group and World of Brass, it has been a hugely encouraging boost, with Brass in Concert CEO Nigel Stevens telling 4BR: "The take-up this year is driven by the attraction of the quality of the 12 world class competitors and our proactive advertising.
We also have a wonderful connection to our global audience through the World of Brass livestream which has created even greater awareness. We are anticipating a thrilling day of music-making for our Sage Gateshead and global audience."
Party atmosphere
Nigel also spoke of the positive appreciation of recent event changes: "The move to a Saturday has created a wonderful atmosphere and that will be enhanced further this year with a party for players and audience members at the conclusion of the results ceremony.
Backstage Brass will provide the entertainment in the concourse area of the Sage, until the late evening. A bar extension has been secured at the venue to ensure the evening can be enjoyed to the maximum, with last orders at 11.30pm."
Drinks on us
And in another new first, he revealed that all performers on the day will get a free drink at the bar too.
"We have also come to an agreement to provide the performing musicians with their first drink free of charge at the party (selected drinks only) as a 'thank you' to all who take part."
We are anticipating a thrilling day of music-making for our Sage Gateshead and global audienceBrass in Concert
Change to adjudication
It was also confirmed that the Entertainment & Presentation element of the contest will now be judged by Jo Towler, alongside Kevin Hathway.
Jo is the CEO of Music in the Round, the leading promoter of chamber music in the UK, and was previously Executive Director of Candoco Dance Company, and Executive Director of Protein Dance.
She has also worked at the London Mozart Players, the Philharmonia Orchestra and the Royal Over-Seas League Annual Music Competition. She replaces Liz Lane, who has taken the personal decision to stand down due to her developing work with participating bands.
Tickets:
General ticket sales for the Brass in Concert Championship are open on the Sage Gateshead website.
https://sagegateshead.com/whats-on/45th-brass-in-concert-championship/
Further information on the event, competing bands and adjudicators can also be found on the Brass in Concert website.
