The National Association of Brass Band Conductors (NABBC) has announced that it is to hold its 4th National Conducting Competition.

The final will take place on 8th June at Eccles Town Hall following the Association's annual general meeting.

First round

The first round will see application by CV and video performance. 12 semi-finalists will then be selected to perform a movement from either 'Symphony of Marches' by Gilbert Vinter or 'Fraternity' by Thierry Deleruyelle with the Rainford Band.

Six will then go through to the final consisting of an open public rehearsal and evening concert with the Eccles Borough Band, where they will present and perform their piece.

The prize for the winner will be to work with National Champion Foden's and the British Open champion, Cory, who will generously provide rehearsal and performance opportunities.

Opportunities

NABBC President, Russell Gray told 4BR: "I feel it's important to create opportunities for conductors to gain valuable experiences by working with such bands.

Last year we received entries from around the world making it a truly international event. Over the last two years we have also been supported by the likes of Fairey, Carlton Main, Flowers, GUS, Reg Vardy, Tredegar and Whitburn, so this is a wonderful opportunity for those who wish to enter."

Personal advice

He added: "All the finalists receive personal advice on their conducting techniques from our experienced adjudicators. I wish all of our aspiring conductors the very best of luck and I look forward to meeting them all on the 8th of June."

Applicants must be over 18. It should be noted that there is no stipulation or requirement that their entry ensemble should be a brass band.

The prize for the winner will be to work with National Champion Foden's and the British Open champion, Cory, who will generously provide rehearsal and performance opportunities.

Interested

Anyone interested should email the association secretary, James Holt, on National.secretary@nabbc.org.uk and an application pack will be provided.

The 12 successful applicants invited to the semi final must travel to the venue and provide their own scores for the first round of the competition.

The closing date for entries is Friday April 26th with the 12 semi-finalists notified by 10th May.