British Bandsman and Pennine Music have linked up to promote a new March composition competition.

It has been inspired by the Tameside and Saddleworth Whit Friday contests and the iconic march music that is heard there. The aim is to help raise funds to support the work of the army of volunteers that ensure that the events go ahead each year.

Volunteers

Organiser Rob Tompkins told 4BR: "So many people take part in different way each year — from players to those superb volunteers to make it 'The Greatest Free Show on Earth'.

With Pennine Music we wish to help support them, so this composition contest is for them. The winning piece will carry the dedication 'to all the volunteers that make the Whit Friday March contests possible'".

For every sale of the winning piece a £2 donation will be made to the Tameside and Saddleworth organising committees.

The judging panel has been revealed as producer Paul Hindmarsh, conductor Michael Fowles and performer and Chav Brass organiser Aidan Smith.

Prize

The winning entry will receive a £300 first prize, with it being recorded by Foden's Band who have generously donated their fee for this project to the Tameside and Saddleworth organising committees.

The closing date for entries is midnight (GMT) on Saturday 28th January.
The result will follow shortly after.

Further details

For further details go to: https://www.britishbandsman.com/march-contest-form