*
banner

Childs and Fountain to lead Brass Band Summer School attractions

The 2023 Brass Band Summer School will be a host of stars — so make sure you book your place not to miss out.

bbschool
  The Brass Band Summer School attracts delegates from across the banding world

Following the success of the 2022 Brass Band Summer School, details have been released for its 2023 edition, which will once again be set in the brass band heartlands of Yorkshire.

In partnership with Besson, the six-day course will take place at Harrogate Ladies College from 6th-11th August under the musical direction of Dr. Robert Childs.

Stars

Its music staff will also include Brass Band of Battle Creek principals, Owen Farr and Les Neish, euphonium soloist David Childs, English National Opera's principal trombonist Becky Smith, Whitburn's principal cornet Chris Bradley and Fairey Band's legendary Brian Taylor.

2023 will also see the return of London Symphony Principal Trumpet James Fountain, who will be resident as both cornet tutor and guest soloist for the BBSS finale gala concert at St. Wilfrid's Parish Church — a Harrogate International Music Festival venue.

In addition to band rehearsals, tutor recitals, ensemble showcases, masterclasses, a light-hearted entertainment competition, individual lessons and evening entertainment, BBSS delegates will also have the opportunity to work with pianist, Matthew McCombie, and BBSS mentors, Brighouse & Rastrick percussionist Sam Milton and Cory cornetist Chris Turner.

The tutors were amazing and so supportive; the location and facilities were really great — and it was such a good opportunity to spend time with old friends and make new ones. I've already booked to come back in 2023!Andrea Cifelli

Wonderful musicians

Following the conclusion of this year's Brass Band Summer School, delegates spoke in glowing terms about the course.

Richard Ashmore, a cornetist from the USA enjoyed, "the challenging repertoire and meeting wonderful musicians", whilst Clare Hayes, a UK euphonium player loved, "the variety of music, camaraderie, tuition, location, food and weather!"

Andrea Cifelli also enthused, "...the programme was perfect — just the right balance between music tuition, rehearsal, performance, and socializing.

The tutors were amazing and so supportive; the location and facilities were really great — and it was such a good opportunity to spend time with old friends and make new ones. I've already booked to come back in 2023!"

Book your place

To be part of the 2023 BBSS visit

www.brassbandsummerschool.com or contact Bookings Administrator, Liz Lancaster: admin@brassbandsummerschool.com or telephone: +44 (0) 7789 841041

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    


Greig Hall

No relegation for Norwegian non payers

March 2 • There will be no relegation to the Fifth Division for the bands who didn't pay their membership fees on time this year — but it is not a precedent for the future.


Blackpool

Report & Results: 2026 North West Regional Championships

March 1 • Area title success for Foden's, Haydock, Lostock Hall, Allerton Brass and Wardle Community Band in Blackpool.


rooms4groups

rooms4gropups ready for Blackpool qualifiers

February 28 • The specialist hotel booking company will be on hand first thing on Monday morning to take the pressure of York and London qualifiers.


Blackpool

York and London on the horizon for North West Area contenders

February 28 • The 2026 Regional Championships get underway in Blackpool on Sunday with 75 taking to the stage at the Winter Gardens but with qualification sights on York and London.


Regent Hall Concerts - Royal Greenwich Brass Band

Friday 27 February • Regent Hall. (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - Oompah Brass XXL

Friday 27 February • Regent Hall. (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - Royal Greenwich Brass Band

Sunday 1 March • St. Alfege Church. Greenwich Church Street. London SE10 9BJ


Regent Hall Concerts - London Central Fellowship Band

Saturday 7 March • Regent Hall. (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - Regent Hall Band of the Salvation Army

Tuesday 10 March • Regent Hall. (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Dobcross Silver Band

March 2 • Following an exceptionally pleasing 1st result at the recent Area contest (2nd section, 4th place), we invite applications for the position of 2ND BARITONE. We are a friendly, progressive and social band!


West Wycombe Brass Band

March 1 • West Wycombe Brass Band are looking for Horn players, any position. Rehearsals Wednesday 7.45-9.45pm in own band hall. Give us a call or email.


Croy Silver Band

March 1 • Croy Silver Band currently has contest vacancies on Cornet and Percussion, but is always happy to accommodate enthusiastic new players in any section of the band.


Rob Nesbitt

BSc, PG Cert. Ed.
Cartoonist , illustrator, writer


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd