The Brass Band Summer School celebrated its 40th anniversary this year with a course that set its benchmark ambitions for the future.

That was according to David Childs, as he reflected on the success of an event that attracted 160 delegates from 12 different countries to Wycliffe College in Gloucestershire, and which is already close to capacity for its 2027 course.

"Our offer to the delegates was based on excellence, engagement and enjoyment — the venue, the music and the teaching,"he told 4BR.

"The support of a fantastic team of 20 staff and sponsors made for a truly memorable week, and our new home at Wycliffe College proved to be a wonderful venue. The delegates were incredible. Their enthusiasm, musicianship, friendship and sheer love of brass bands are what make BBSS the week it is."

Benchmark

He added: "We have set a benchmark for the highest possible quality in everything that the BBSS stands for — from inspirational visiting performers such as Philip Cobb to new works from composers and support and advice from industry professionals.

So many delegates told us that it was fully appreciated and to find that we are close to capacity for 2027 already, further endorses that ethos."

Music commissions

The course also featured brand new music commissions, with Rebecca Lundberg providing 'Echoes and Horizons', which celebrated the 40th anniversary of the course, but also looked forward to new milestones.

The music, premiered by the in-house staff ensemble unfolded in two sections — beginning in nostalgic mood looking back on the past 40 years before exploding with a vibrant second half which drew on renewed energy to celebrate the optimism, excitement and opportunities that accompanies new beginnings.

New suite

Composers Andrea Price, Lucy Pankhurst and Annabel Baxter were also commissioned to write a new, and as yet unnamed 'suite' that reflected the trio of host BBSS venues — from Oxford and Harrogate to the new home at Gloucester.

And as conductor Dr Robert Childs noted, such was its success that its hoped that it will be published in the near future as soon as someone can come up with a title.

"The composers have provided a wonderful work aimed at around Third Section level which I'm sure will be a great addition to the repertoire. Andrea and Lucy were joined by a new voice in Annabel Baxter to create a thoroughly engaging and innovative suite. All we now need is a title!"

The BBSS stands at the forefront of courses — one that that is valued by delegates and sponsors alike for its outlook and approachOwen Farr

Forefront

Tenor horn star Owen Farr summed up his reflections by saying: "The BBSS stands at the forefront of courses — one that that is valued by delegates and sponsors alike for its outlook and approach led by Musical Director, Robert Childs, who continues to be at the heart of what makes BBSS so special."

Find out more

To find out more and book a 2027 place:
www.brassbandsummerschool.com