*
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    


Mike Kilroy

Kilroy steps back from BBE role to follow health treatment

September 7 • Mike Kilroy will take a temporary step down as Chairperson of Brass Bands England to undergo treatment for prostate cancer.


Music of the Spheres

Check out the Spheres before Symphony Hall

September 7 • The countdown to the British Open sees the competing bands previewing their final preparations on 'Music of the Spheres' — so why not pop along and see how they are getting on.


Money

British Open Countdown: T minus 5

September 7 • Glory and cash. One is priceless, the other pays the bills... but how much are they worth?


Murray Greig

Greig's to deliver in Leicester for free

September 7 • There is a free day of brass for young players to enjoy under the expert tuition of Murray Grieg this weekend — so make sure you sign up to enjoy.


The Hepworth Band - Public Rehearsal ahead of the 2026 British Open

Tuesday 8 September • Ossett Town Hall, Market Place, Ossett WF5 8BE


Sherborne Town Band - Free-Music in the park

Sunday 13 September • Sherborne, Dorset-Pageant Gardens DT9 3NP


Regent Hall Concerts - The Band of the Grenadier Guards

Thursday 17 September • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - The Duchess of Edinburgh String Orchestra

Friday 18 September • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - The Band of the Irish Guards

Thursday 1 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Barnsley Brass

September 6 • We are looking to recruit a Flugel Horn and Back Row Cornet players. We are based in Worsbrough Bridge by the A61 south of Barnsley. S70 5LJ. Rehearsals are Mondays / Thursdays at 8pm in our purpose-built band room..


Enderby Band

September 5 • Championship section band seeking CORNETS (positions negotiable), Eb BASS, and PERCUSSIONISTS to join our committed, hard-working and friendly team, performing a balanced diary of concerts and contests.


Harrogate Band

September 4 • The Harrogate Band are looking for a 1st Baritone and Soprano player to complete our team. Forward thinking and exciting band with a wide range of engagements and contests. Rehearsals are Wednesday 8pm in our own bandroom with great transport links.


Jason M Smith


Band Trainer (Contest Preparation), Conductor


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd