4BR has been informed that preparations are well in hand for the hosting of the 2026 Elgar International Festival of Brass, which this year will be held at the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire on Sunday 7th June.

Tickets are now also on sale for the event which features the current World, European and Belgian champion, Brass Band Willebroek, alongside Black Dyke Band, Flowers and Foden's. In addition, Besson artist David Childs will give a recital and masterclass.

Very best

Festival Director, Carole Crompton told 4BR: "Our policy is to always feature the very best bands, and once again we feel we have done that with major championship winners in Willebroek, Black Dyke, Flowers and Foden's.

We are also delighted that David Childs has accepted our invitation to be part of the event adding yet another level of world class inspiration and musicianship for our audience to enjoy."

Carole added: "Our thanks also go to the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire in welcoming us this year — opening a new and exciting chapter for an event which has already made a significant mark in the concert calendar."

Delighted

In welcoming the Festival, Conservatoire Head of Brass, Ed Jones added: "We are absolutely delighted to host such an important showcase event. It will be a real thrill to hear these world class bands perform at our outstanding Bradshaw Hall, as well as simply thrilled by David Childs.

This collaboration underlines the Conservatoire's ambition to play a central role in the UK's brass-playing life whilst also providing truly inspirational experiences for our students."

It will be a real thrill to hear these world class bands perform at our outstanding Bradshaw Hall, as well as simply thrilled by David ChildsConservatoire Head of Brass, Ed Jones

Celebrations and premieres

4BR was informed that the 75th birthday celebrations of composer Philip Sparke will also be marked amongst a series of other major compositions to be performed by the bands this year.

It will include Willbreoek giving the UK premiere of 'Mirage' by Jan De Haan which is the set-work for the 2026 World Music Contest in Kerkrade in July.

Further repertoire details will be released over the coming weeks.

Free masterclass

As an added bonus to the David Childs recital in the Bradshaw Hall, all festival ticket holders will be able to sign up for a FREE masterclass with David Childs to be staged in the Recital Hall during the day. The masterclass is open to any brass players.

Further details:

For further details and ticket booking go to: www.eifob.org.uk