*
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    


Phiip Wilby

Dobcross Wilby ready for Cheltenham

September 5 • A visit from Prof Philip Wilby to a recent Dobcross Silver Band rehearsal has given everyone a musical boost ahead of their National challenge.


Simon Johnson

Johnson takes principal lead at LSO

September 5 • Former Williams Fairey solo trombonist Simon Johnson has been appointed principal trombone of the London Symphony Orchestra.


Bon Accord Youth

Youthful future assured at Bon Accord

September 5 • Fantastic outreach work sees a new youth band set up by Bon Accord Silver Band.


Birmingham Citadel Band

Citadel welcome to the British Open

September 5 • The Birmingham Citadel Band will offer a warm musical welcome to the 171st British Open Championship on Saturday.


Contest: 171st British Open

Saturday 6 September • Broad Street, Birmingham. B1 2EA


Contest: Lower Sections 1-4 National Finals

Saturday 13 September • Cheltenham Racecourse, Evesham Road, Cheltenham GL50 4SH


Contest: Lower Sections 1-4 National Finals

Sunday 14 September • Cheltenham Racecourse, Evesham Road, Cheltenham. . *Please note as of 24th August 2023 the date is provisional according to Kapitol Promotions website GL50 4SH


Petworth Town Band - Petworth Town Band at Petworth Heritage weekend

Saturday 20 September • Centre of Petworth Town GU28 OAH


Cheltenham Silver Band - Holst Birthday Concert

Saturday 20 September • All Saints Church, All Saints Road, Pittville, Cheltenham GL52 2HG


Crewe Brass

September 5 • We are looking for FLUGEL player to join our highly motivated 4th section band. We are a very welcoming and sociable band, with a positive outlook and a reasonably busy calendar of engagements. Other enquiries are welcome.


Rushden Town Band

September 2 • 2nd Trombone position has become vacant as current holder off to University. Rehearsals Mondays and Wednesday at Rushden Hall. RTB is a friendly 1st Section band who have recently come back from their second tour abroad and also released their first CD.


Bilton Silver Rugby Band

September 2 • Are you moving to the West Midlands this autumn or possibly fancy a change of bandroom scenery? The band are looking to recruit an Eb bass and a Kit Percussionist to help us with our varied and ever expanding range of events.


Ian Holmes

BA (hons), PGDip (RCM), ARCM, ALCM
Conductor, piano accompanist and educator


               

 © 2025 4barsrest.com Ltd