The National Youth Brass Band of Northern Ireland (NYBBNI) recently made a successful second public appearance in bringing the programme of events at the Enniskillen BrassFest to a close.

Following the success of its inaugural concert earlier this year, the NYBBNI was led by Musical Director Les Neish to conclude a packed day of music-making that featured 17 bands from across Ireland.

Ovation

Playing to a large and supportive audience the band presented an eclectic programme that included Alan Fernie's 'Prismatic Light' alongside Catherine Betts' 'Danger Line', which provided a lively feature for the band's percussion section.

The performance was greeted with a rapturous ovation, with the enthusiasm and enjoyment of the young musicians evident throughout.

Celebration

BrassFest is organised by Stephen Crooks, co-founder of the popular Fermanagh/Tyrone Brass Band Summer School. The free event continues to grow in popularity, bringing together bands, musicians and audiences for a celebration of brass music in the heart of Enniskillen.

Commenting on NYBBNI's appearance, Stephen told 4BR: "It was fantastic to have the NYBBNI at BrassFest to close the day.

We are proud to bring communities together for a free celebration of music and to provide a platform that raises the visibility of brass bands in Northern Ireland. NYBBNI offered a powerful example that the future of brass banding is bright."

We are proud to bring communities together for a free celebration of music and to provide a platform that raises the visibility of brass bands in Northern IrelandOrganiser, Stephen Crooks

Milestone

The appearance marked another important milestone in the NYBBNI's inaugural year, providing its young musicians with a further opportunity to perform together and showcase the wealth of emerging brass and percussion talent.

The band now hopes to build on the momentum with plans already being put in place for its 2027 rehearsal and concert schedule, including its next concert in April 2027.