The double weekend of Midlands Regional title winning action concluded with Harborough Band securing the Second Section honours at Bedworth Civic Hall.

Once again the venue's excellent acoustic ensured that adjudicators and audience alike clearly heard why GUS Band, Rushden Town, Market Rasen and Cubbington Silver had earlier celebrated success.

There should have also been an additional prize awarded to Lesley Bentley's hard-working team of volunteers for their sterling efforts in supporting a total 69 competitors.

Championship Section:

With National Champion Desford Colliery looking to reclaim the Area bragging rights from holders GUS Band, and with an extra qualification place up for grabs as a result of their memorable Albert Hall victory, there was a heightened level of anticipation ahead of the top section contest.

The audience was not left disappointed, as for the third year in a row it proved to be a thoroughly absorbing triptych battle, with the result a repeat of 2025.

Performance of quality

According to the judges, Dr Robert Childs and Andrea Price, GUS Band, Desford Colliery and Derwent Brass were "a clear margin" ahead of contenders of "varying standards".

He also later confirmed that although closely matched, there was clarity between the podium rivals, with GUS providing a "performance of quality" of 'Elgar Variations' off the number 1 draw that combined security of execution to a thoughtfully restrained sense of style.

That consistency (embodied by 'Best Instrumentalist' Rhys Cave on flugel) fused together the variation characteristics of the tricky score. Just an occasional moment or two of frailty caught the ear, but it never disturbed the informed intentions drawn by MD Christopher Bond.

It gave both judges and rivals an imposing high-class marker — and one that could not in the end be beaten.

Complete performance

Dr Childs later added: "The winners gave us the most complete performance — not without minor difficulties, but musically it was so stylish and technically it was very solid. Second place just had a few too many little errors and third was very musical, but again just had those mistakes we couldn't ignore."

He concluded: "There were different levels that made our job both easy and hard in the box. The top three were a clear margin ahead, whilst the three or four battling for a top-six finish were also closely matched and they were clearly ahead of the remaining bands. It was a contest of varying standards."

Of those, Ratby Co-operative, Staffordshire and Langley eventually took the top-six places, each led with informed musical intent, but also suffering with obvious inconsistencies. Behind them the problems became more pronounced.

Grand Shield focus

For GUS Band, victory added further substance to the progress made in recent years, as they now look to end a 12 year wait to return to the British Open. Reflecting on their success on their Facebook page, the new champion stated: "We're incredibly proud! A fantastic achievement for everyone in the band", whilst their MD, who made his regional contest debut at the helm, simply added: "This one feels extra special".

A repeat of this impressive form at the Grand Shield in May could well see them reach even greater elite levels of excellence.

Desford disappointment

Although there was obvious disappointment for Desford, their focus will also now be set on British Open qualification aspirations. This though wasn't Desford of recent Albert Hall vintage.

They will know that will have to eradicate the small, but noticeable accumulation of minor errors that saw their account under Ian Porthouse, fall short here, if they are to be pencilled in the starting line-up at Symphony Hall in September.

Elite progress

For Derwent Brass, this was further evidence of their sustained progress being made under MD, Jack Capstaff, after a highly musical account, marked by nuance and subtlety in pace and style again impressed — and not just in the box.

A first Royal Albert Hall appearance was thoroughly deserved after a leanly shaped dynamic performance of musical maturity. They now look to take a step closer to the British Open as one of the short-priced favourites at the Senior Cup in Birmingham.

Defined levels

Dr Robert Childs was spot-on with his immediate post-contest analysis and later remarks about the defined levels of competitive quality on show.

That saw a second tier of well thought out performances that couldn't quite match ambition with execution — led by Martin Heartfield's sensible appreciation with Newstead to finish just ahead of engaging accounts from Ratby Co-operative, Enderby and Langley, with Sovereign on their tails.

Behind them though the standard fell away considerably as the inconsistencies became clearly pronounced.

First Section:

There was a trio of well-matched podium finishers in the First Section.

In fact, adjudicators Paul Norley and Mark Wilkinson revealed that, "the top third" of the 15 band field found the subtle changes in style to go with the technical consistency required to master 'Variations on 'Was Lebet' to press their case for National Final qualification.

It was the key to success for Paul, whilst Mark highlighted the need for much of the score to be delivered with a light touch in articulation to bring the "song and dance"contrasts to the fore.

Their assessments left little doubt to what they had been looking for; from the "Parisian feel" of the waltz section, to the consistent tempo of the fugue finale, the cohesion between brass and percussion balance, and the need to control aggression when the music required excitement.

Rushden poise

It was to be Rushden Town, conducted with calm authority by Adele Hudson, that ticked all the title-winning boxes for them.

Detailed and tempered, it held a musical poise that never sounded strained in dynamic or tempi in securing a first Area win since a Third Section success in 2014, and a first National Final appearance since 2017.

The band certainly celebrated, thanking their "amazing conductor and loyal supporters" on their Facebook page, although they also took time to thank Shirebrook Welfare Band who leant them an instrument after a last minute malfunction.

Fifth time Raunds

Joining them in York will be Raunds Temperance — their fifth appearance since 2019 under MD Jonathan Pippen. Once again, they showed their solid musical progress under his baton with a performance of character and confidence.

The final qualification was claimed by a thrilled Hucknall & Linby, as the three podium finishers followed each other on stage. MD Chris Ledger-Knapp also gave subtle emphasis to stylistic detail to go with confident execution in claiming a first Finals' appearance since 2019.

Elsewhere, supporters of Brass Band of Central England will perhaps have left a little disappointed after their persuasively tailored account just missed out, whilst Jackfield and Audley will have rued a few too many minor scrapes and smudges.

Behind them it was the usual tale of consistency, as ambitious tempo choices (especially linked with the first and final variations) saw the music lose its sense of poise and accuracy despite some confident playing.

Second Section:

Although held a week later, a well-supported Second Section was aided by 13 confident performances of Philip Harper's colourful '20,000 Leagues under the Sea' test-piece.

The filmatic storyline was testing though — especially the need to integrate the important percussion elements that provided texture, drive and effect. The super efforts of the perc teams were noted by judges Stan Lippeatt and Mark Wilkinson, as were the confident solo leads (water gong included) and the way in which the MDs showed contrast between the driven mechanical excitement and more reflective aquatic interludes.

70 year wait

All of these elements came together for them with Harborough, as under young conductor Ben Smith they produced a mini Jules Verne sci-fi epic — packed to the gills with drama, colour and contrast. It was a clear winner, claiming what was believed to be a first Area title success in 70 years.

Little wonder they took to Facebook to share the news of their long-awaited success: "We are so proud of all of our players, and of course our MD Ben Smith, for all the hard work put in over the weeks and months leading up to this, and for a fabulous performance on the day.

We have actually discovered that we have not won a Midlands Area contest since 1956, so this is truly a historic victory for the band."

Leicestershire return

For Leicestershire Co-operative, second place saw them return to the National Final for the first time since 2011, as Ben Hewlett-Davies' band showcased the quality that had recently given them victory at the NEMBBA contest.

In what was a closely matched battle for qualification, it was Towcester Studio that just missed out in third, despite a neatly shaped account under Ian Knapton, whilst the remaining top-six places went to neatly directed renditions from Stamford Brass, Stourport on Seven and Rolls Royce (Derby).

Third Section:

Judges Jack Capstaff and Stan Lippeatt displayed the same clarity and detail in their pre-results addresses that had earlier been heard from the best bands on Gordon Langford's 'Three Haworth Impressions'.

After a good quality Third Section contest, Jack's lucid analysis highlighted the aesthetic elements that formed an atmospheric narrative portrait of time, place and people. It was good to hear he said, that in addition to the solid "core basics" displayed by the 15 bands, the playing also showed appreciation of development of "shape and drama", "some really clever conducting" and "fine soloists".

Stan was also impressed on "a fabulous piece", as he pinpointed rhythmic structuring amongst the elements that saw "the top 3 or 4 sit in the right position", whilst fifth down also "showed good playing".

Little argument

Few argument then that it was Market Rasen that secured the honours for the first time since 2018 with a performance of controlled character (with a brooding opening, quirky waltz and Inter-City service railway finale), directed with insight and thoughtfulness by Peter Richardson in managing his resources of 3 basses and 1 fantastic percussionist.

Little wonder their band rep launched himself onto the stage in delight. It was to be the prelude to further celebrations as they later stated on their Facebook page that it had been "a performance to remember". It must have been one heck of a night too.

Joy too for Shirebrook Welfare, as a confident ensemble timed their atmospheric surge to York (for the first time since 2012) as the penultimate band of the day almost to perfection under MD Christopher Banks.

Narrow margins

It meant it just pipped the impressive early marker from Avonbank (Evesham) as Micah Dominic Parson shaped a controlled rendition to claim the final qualification place for the second year in a row.

Just missing out by the narrowest of margins was Ibstock Brick Brass as the final band of an absorbing contest, whilst the remaining top-six finishers of Syston and Long Eaton, as well as those down through the results list, all produced performances of merit.

Fourth Section:

Although the days of 20 plus Fourth Section bands at Bedworth is unlikely to be repeated soon (the last time was 2019), the 14 that competed this year showed that traditional time honoured basic hard work and youthful investment in talent is fuelling their future ambitions.

And even though 'Indian Summer' didn't attract extra entrants (down 3 — although archaic rules don't help) it did show that it was music that could be played well, even by ensembles short of individual numbers or experience.

That was touched upon by adjudicators Stan Lippeatt and Paul Norley, who emphasised that mastering the foundation elements for solid brass band contest playing was key to success.

The opening 'The Great Chief Speaks' had to have an imposing presence they said, whilst the 'Totem Dance' required a "joyful, energetic feel". 'Hymn to the Great Spirit' required a sense of stylistic nobility to close, although it was the reflective openness of 'By the Cool Waters' that was a litmus test of individual and ensemble confidence and cohesion.

Impressed

Both were impressed though by what they had heard — the winners Cubbington Silver, and fellow qualifier Matlock in particular thoroughly deserving their trip to York.

Cubbington were excellent; securing their first appearance there in over a decade, with a performance packed with impressive solo and ensemble playing and led with thoughtful understanding by MD, Mark Scott.

The work they had obviously put in since coming ninth at the recent ODBBA contest paid off in full. Their celebratory meal for 'The Champion Band' must have turned into a great night.

Good night

A good night must also have been enjoyed by Matlock as they produced a fine account (also built from the recent NEMBBA contest) under Christopher Banks to secure a first National Final appearance since 2008.

If there has been one more band in the starting line-up, then a fine rendition from the improving Croft Silver would have seen them head to York for the first time 2018.

Just behind in a contest with all bands emerging with credit, came from the top-six finishers of Brackley & District, Moulton 77 Brass and Newhall (who set the fine marker from the number 1 draw).

Bedworth attraction

After something of a nomadic existence in recent years the return to Bedworth has given the Midlands Regional Championships a home venue that offers a great deal — and not just that fine hall acoustic.

Backed by the excellent regional committee team and really helpful volunteer hall staff, it will hopefully see it host even more bands in 2027 — and on this evidence, perhaps another National Champion or two.

Christopher Thomas and Iwan Fox

The winners gave us the most complete performance — not without minor difficulties, but musically it was so stylish and technically it was very solidDr Robert Childs

Result:

Championship Section:

Set Work: Elgar Variations (Martin Ellerby)
Adjudicators: Dr Robert Childs; Andrea Price

1. GUS Band (Christopher Bond)*
2. Desford Colliery (Ian Porthouse)**
3. Derwent Brass (Jack Capstaff)*
4. Newstead Brass (Martin Heartfield)
5. Ratby Co-operative (Glyn Williams)
6. Enderby (Gareth Westwood)
7. Langley (Cliff Parker)
8. Sovereign Brass (David Maplestone)
9. Thoresby Colliery (Luke Pallister)
10. Blidworth Welfare (Colum O'Shea)
11. Staffordshire (Lee Woodward)
12. Kibworth (Brendan Caddy)

Best Instrumentalist: Rhys Cave (flugel) — GUS Band

* Qualify for National Final
** Pre-qualified for National Final

First Section:

Set Work: Variations on 'Was Lebet' (Andrew Wainwright)
Adjudicators: Mark Wilkinson; Paul Norley

1. Rushden Town (Adele Hudson)*
2. Raunds Temperance (Jonathan Pippen)*
3. Hucknall & Linby MC (Chris Ledger-Knapp)*
4. Brass Band of Central England (Stephen Phillips)
5. Jackfield (Craig Stevens)
6. Audley Brass (Tom Hancock)
7. Bilton Silver (Rugby) (David Stowell)
8. Gresley Colliery (Richard Windle)
9. Foss Dyke (Gareth Westwood)
10. Hathern (Gary Wyatt)
11. Bedworth Brass (Jonathan Mott)
12. Oddfellows Brass (John Davis)
13. Shirland Welfare (Lynden Cooper)
14. City of Coventry (Lee Woodward)
15. Shirley (Kieron Howe)

Best Instrumentalist: Matt Freestone (cornet) — Rushden Town

* Qualify for National Final

Second Section:

Set Work: 20,000 Leagues under the Sea (Philip Harper)
Adjudicators: Stan Lippeatt; Mark Wilkinson
Held on Sunday 15th March

1. Harborough (Ben Smith)*
2. Leicestershire Co-op (Ben Hewlett-Davies)*
3. Towcester Studio (Ian Knapton)
4. Stamford Brass (Julian Bright)
5. Stourport on Severn (Oliver Wilson)
6. Rolls Royce (Derby) (Adrian Lacey)
7. Tintwistle (Jim Henson)
8. Carlton Brass (Matthew Ludford-King)
9. Thrapston Town (Nathan Waterman)
10. Wellington (Telford) (David Nicholson)
11. City of Birmingham (Saphran Ali)
12. Ratby Co-operative Mid (Nicholas Garman)
13. Burbage Buxton (Steve Critchlow)

* Qualified for National Final

Third Section:

Set Work: Three Haworth Impressions (Gordon Langford)
Adjudicators: Jack Capstaff; Stan Lippeatt

1. Market Rasen (Peter Richardson)*
2. Shirebrook Miners Welfare (Christopher Banks)*
3. Avonbank (Evesham) (Micah Parsons)*
4. Ibstock Brick Brass (Jon Penton)
5. Syston (Alex Bland)
6. Long Eaton Silver (James Dennis)
7. Whitwell Brass (Sam Fisher)
8. Pleasley Colliery Welfare (Geof Benson)
9. Newark Town (Gary Wyatt)
10. Wigston (Colin Jones)
11. Shipston Town (Alex Bland)
12. Ireland Colliery (Chesterfield) (Sarah Fellowes)
13. Amington (Chris Barker)
14. Cleobury Mortimer Concert (Craig Williams)
15. Wem Jubilee (Cathy Rutherford)

Best Instrumentalist: Mark Brimble (cornet) — Shirebrook Miners Welfare

* Qualify for National Final

Fourth Section:

Set Work: Indian Summer (Eric Ball)
Adjudicators: Paul Norley; Stan Lippeatt

1. Cubbington Silver (Mark Scott)*
2. Matlock (Chris Banks)*
3. Croft Silver (Henry Dunger)
4. Brackley & District (Archie Batty)
5. Moulton 77 Brass (Kirsty Woodhouse)
6. Newhall (Kevin Holdgate)
7. Arrow Valley (Alex Bland)
8. Trentham (Steve Churchill)
9. Bilton Silver (Evolution) (Jodie Kelsall)
10. Bretforton Silver (Paul Wood)
11. Coventry Festival (Allan Wheelhouse)
12. Malvern Hills & District (Chris License)
13. Dunchurch (Paul Whitmore)
14. Corby Silver (Daniel Thompson)

Best Instrumentalist: Kevin Lee (cornet) — Matlock

*Qualify for National Final
Withdrew: Daventry Brass