*
banner

News

Finding the next generation of brass band composers

Brass Bands England will host the important discussion at the RNCM International Brass Band Festival.

RNCM
  Where do we find the next Harrison Birtwistle?

Thursday, 23 January 2025

        

Brass Bands England will play their part at the forthcoming RNCM International Brass Band Festival by hosting a discussion forum on Sunday afternoon in the Carole Nash Room (4.45pm).

New composers

The topic for exploration hosted by CEO Kenny Crookston is how we can persuade, encourage and promote a new generation of composers for the brass band medium — writers who can broaden the scope and understanding of our music to existing audiences as well as new ones.

Panel

The panel will consist of Paul Hindmarsh, the former Artistic Director of the RNCM Festival and author of the eagerly awaited biography of composer Wilfred Heaton; Chris Thomas, brass band journalist and 2025/2026 Chairperson of the Leamington Music Festival, which this year celebrates the music of Sir Arthur Bliss, and British Composer Award winner, educator and animateur, Lucy Pankhurst.

Admission to the discussion is free (with ticket), but there are only limited places.

        

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    

Latest News »

Cope

4BR Wednesday interview with Clare Cope

January 21 • 4BR talks to the award winning composer ahead of the world premiere of his work, 'The Green Chapel' at the RNCM International Brass Band Festival in Manchester.

Nailsworth

Final chord ahead for Adachi and Nailsworth

January 21 • The successful six year partnership between Nailsworth Silver Band and Musical Director Anri Adachi will come to an end at the West of England Regional Championships.

Norway

80 bands line-up for Norwegian titles

January 21 • There will be two days packed with musical action in Bergen next month at the Norwegian National Championships.

National Championships

Regional erratas added

January 21 • Bands have been reminded to keep an eye out for the list of errata on the 2026 Area test-pieces, as First Section amendment noted.

What's on »

Regent Hall Concerts - The January Band

Friday 23 January • Regent Hall. (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ

The Hepworth Band - New Year Concert

Sunday 25 January • Christ Church, New Mill, Holmfirth HD9 7ER

Contest: Norwegian National Brass Band Championships

Friday 6 February • Grieghallen, Bergen, N-5015 N-5015

Contest: Norwegian National Brass Band Championships

Saturday 7 February • Grieghallen, Bergen, N-5015 N-5015

Regent Hall Concerts - Royal Greenwich Brass Band

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

Vacancies »

Uckfield Concert Brass

January 21 • First baritone player wanted for our friendly and welcoming band. We play a variety of music, from pop to classical. We meet on Tuesday evenings at The Alma public house

Uckfield Concert Brass

January 21 • Bass player wanted for our friendly and welcoming band. We play a variety of music, from pop to classical. We meet on Tuesday evenings at The Alma public house

Uckfield Concert Brass

January 21 • Cornet players wanted for our friendly and welcoming band, both front and back row. We play a variety of music, from pop to classical. We meet on Tuesday evenings at The Alma public house

Pro Cards »

Ronnie MacNiven

MMus GRSM LRAM
Trombonist, composer, conductor

               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd

Back to top