Brass in Concert has announced that the Banks Group has become a major sponsor for the leading entertainment event, which will be held this weekend at The Sage Gateshead in association with Yamaha and British Bandsman.

Increase in Quality

The association will now see an increase in the cash award for the band placed highest for Quality of Performance to £1,000.

Speaking to 4BR, John Woods commented: "Harry Banks has been a familiar face at Brass in Concert for many years and we are most grateful for this generous increase. Harry will present the Banks Group Trophy to the highest placed band."

New composition

John also revealed a new brass composition for the Workshop Band that will perform on the Saturday at the event.

"We are also delighted to announce details of a new brass commission by Alan Catherall that will be one of the focus pieces for the Workshop Band.

The aim of our Youth and Education Day is to open up access and opportunities for young people to take up brass and percussion playing through schools, communities or local brass bands."

The association will now see an increase in the cash award for the band placed highest for Quality of Performance to £1,0004BR

Highly respected

He added: "’The Three Rivers Suite’, has been composed by Alan Catherall for the participants who, after four hours of rehearsal, will play the new work in Hall One. Alan is a highly respected arranger with many successful compositions over the years."

New look

There will also be something of an updated stage look to the contest too, with new stand banners provided by Centre Stage.

John concluded: "We are most grateful to Centre Stage Uniforms and Martin Gernon, who are supplying commemorative pennants for the winning band and soloist as well as 40 music stand banners that will be in use for the first time at the 2012 Festival."