The Wessex Brass Band Association has been holding an annual competition for its members for over 50 years, but over the past couple of years the Association has been ringing the changes.

Wind of change

That wind of change has embraced the senior competition in 2010 with the decision that this year it will be run as an Own Choice contest — with a highly encouraging respeonse form bands wishing to compete.

A spokesperson told 4BR: "The response has been very encouraging, but there is still room, and time, for a few more entries. The closing date is 27th September."

The draw for the contest will take on 2nd October and the contest itself will be held at the Pavilion Theatre in Weymouth, on Saturday, 27th November.

The adjudicator is Frank Renton and post contest concert will be given by the Woodfalls Band before the announcement of the results.

The response has been very encouraging, but there is still room, and time, for a few more entries. The closing date is 27th SeptemberWessex Band Association spokesperson

2011 Youth Contest

The Association's succesful Youth and Training Band Contest will be held next year on January 29th at the Trafalgar School, Downton, near Salisbury, sponsored by the Royal Marines.

The adjudicator will be Lieutenant Colonel Nick Grace BMus(Hons) FLCM LRSM, Commandant of the Royal Marines School of Music and Principal Director of Music Royal Marines.

Further information:

Further information on both competitions can be obtained from Wessex Brass Band Association Secretary Mike and Lesley Knapton by telephone (01373 832572 or Mob.(0044)07760360105 )or email — ( meknapton@blueyonder.co.uk)