Butlins Contest Administrator Brian Eggleshaw has informed 4BR that he has been highly encouraged by the response to their innovative Junior Ensemble event that will take place at the Butlins Mineworkers Championships in Skegness in January.

Little acorns

"I really do believe in the saying...'from little acorns grow', and the response to the event has been very encouraging so far," Brian said.

The Butlins Youth Brass Band Festival will be held at the resorts 'Reds' Theatre on Sunday 23rd January and is open for band’s own beginners and juniors in what will be a relaxed opportunity to dip their toes into the contesting waters.

Encouraging

The ensembles will be limited to between 10 and 20 players, all of whom must be under the age of 16 on the day of the contest.

There are some other rules to be observed, but Brian is keen to point out that the competition will be about encouraging smaller youth ensembles to be part of what is becoming one of the leading brass band events in the world.

"We want to encourage participation and enjoyment, and whilst there are rules to make sure everyone has an equal chance, we want it to be an event that gives young players a first taste of a friendly contesting atmosphere."

we want it to be an event that gives young players a first taste of a friendly contesting atmosphereBrian Eggleshaw

Helping hand

Percussion is allowed, as is some adult help too – to ensure as Brian told 4BR, that the youngest players are given that extra 'helping hand', and he feels that the competition will hopefully lead to players taken their first steps to a lifetime’s participation in banding.

Good basics

The ensembles will be adjudicated and graded on their 10 minute programme of music, that must include a hymn tune. "We want to ensure that the contest encourages the good basics of brass band playing," Brian added.

There is prize money up for grabs, but more importantly, Brian hopes that will add another enjoyable dimension to the growing Butlins brass band experience. "We have wonderful support from Butlins and this is an opportunity to add another enjoyable facet to it."

Schedules and information:

Schedules and Entry Forms for the 2011 Youth Festival have been sent out to those Youth Bands who competed in January of this year, but any other youth bands or junior ensembles who are interested in attending can contact Brian direct.

Contact:

Brian Eggleshaw
59, Cardale Road,
Mansfield, Notts.
NG19 7RW.
Tel: 01623 478454.
e-mail: bj-egg@ntlworld.com