Thanks to a successful sponsorship partnership, the Jena Competence Centre for Brass Band (Kompetenz-Zentrum für Brass Band) in Germany, has undergone an extensive technology upgrade.

Multi-media equipment, including hi-tech cameras, screens, speakers and microphones have been installed in the rehearsal rooms, with Creative Director, Alexander Richter telling 4BR that it offers the potential to make connections throughout the brass banding world.

Goal

"It is our goal to make two-way digital connections across the globe to so much more to players — from individual lessons and masterclasses to lectures and performance opportunities."

The purchase of the equipment as well as the training of the association's members was made possible through sponsorship from the State Ministry for Culture & Media's Neustart Kulture and Kulture.Gemeinschaften programmes.
Alexander revealed that Brass Band BlechKLANG, which is associated with the competence centre, will also benefit from the digitalisation measures.

The technology is portable and robust so we can also use it for concert performances and streaming opportunities to further expand audiencesCreative Director, Alexander Richter

Streaming opportunities

He added: "The technology is portable and robust so we can also use it for concert performances and streaming opportunities to further expand audiences."

4BR was informed that plans are also in place to work digitally with world class tutors and performers at the Jena Brass Band Seminar (Jenaer Blechbläser Seminar) as well as the popular International Summer Brass Band Camp.

Alexander added: "There are so many exciting possibilities we can now explore as an extension of our current work. We want music making to be live and in person, but this will enhance our overall offer."