The Brass Band Conductors' Association has announced the line-up of twelve conductors who will now go forward to the semi-final round of its flagship competition.

It follows a first-round adjudication of video entries from across the banding world — the highlights of those making it through can be seen at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bihgilxs3nQ

Neil Brownless, Matthew Ryan, Tom Hancock, Rita Arendz, Alistair Gibson, Stefano Giacomelli, Luca Pasqua, Rokas Podelis, Oliver Hallstead-Brooks, Neil Bowden, Kyle Blake and Andrew Lofthouse will now progress to the Yamaha sponsored semi-final on Saturday 17th June to be held at Eccles Town Hall.

Six finalists

Each conductor will rehearse the Hammonds Band on either 'The World Rejoicing' by Edward Gregson or 'Sounds' by John Golland. They will be assessed by adjudicators Paul Holland and Mareika Gray, with six conductors going through to the evening's final where they will conduct Eccles Borough Band.

BBCA Chairperson, James Holt told 4BR: "It's fantastic that our competition attracts worldwide high-class interest.

This is an outstanding opportunity for them to work with fine ensembles and I'm sure it will be a great day for those involved."

This is an outstanding opportunity for them to work with fine ensembles and I'm sure it will be a great day for those involvedBBCA Chairperson, James Holt

Free to enjoy

Those wishing to watch the semi-finalists in action are welcome (11.00am to 3.00pm and the evening Gala Concert at 7.30pm) can come along to Eccles Town Hall.

The first half of the concert will see the six finalists leading the band through their final piece before the band will be led by BBCA Executive President Russell Gray. Entry is free with a retiring collection.