This coming Saturday Ian Brownbill will be settling down with a beer to watch his beloved Liverpool take on the might of Chelsea in the FA Cup Final from Wembley.

Reds triumph

However, despite his heartfelt desire to see Kenny Dalglish and the Reds triumph, he will also have one eye on his computer as he follows 4BR’s live coverage at the European Brass Band Championships in Rotterdam too.

"I'll be excited come kick off and desperate for Liverpool to win, but I'll also be wishing I was somewhere else too. After seeing the 4BR coverage, I wish I could be in two places at once and in Rotterdam to hear what I think is going to be the most exciting European Championships to date."

Special

Ian’s experience in the box at two major national championships in the past year or so has convinced him that the De Deolen Hall will witness something very special.

"Judging at the English Nationals last year, I heard Black Dyke deliver an almost perfect performance of ‘Vienna Nights’ that confirmed their entry into this year’s Euro's.

Later in the year, I sat alongside Peter Meechan and Simon Dobson and heard Nord Limburgse deliver two of the most exciting performances I've ever heard of 'Masquerade' and 'Old Licks Bluesed Up' respectively."

Savour

He added: "With Bob Childs leading what is bound to be an emotionally charged Cory, Eikanger under David King in equally sparkling form, Manger fighting to defend their title, the brilliant Austrians and the other bands all equally determined to make their mark, the weekend in Rotterdam is set be something to savour!"

I wish I could be in two places at once and in Rotterdam to hear what I think is going to be the most exciting European Championships to dateIan Brownbill

Own memories

Ian’s own memories of the competition are headed by Black Dyke’s 1995 victory under James Watson.

"What a band and what a conductor he was," he recalls. "That victory was something very special. We gained 99 points out of 100 on the set work, which proved just enough after coming third on our choice to beat Fairey’s who were on brilliant form under the Peter Parkes. We had a great night celebrating – not that I remember much of it now!"

This weekend

And as for this weekend?

"Good luck to all the bands. The winners will have certainly earned their reward come Saturday evening – Liverpool, hopefully included!"