*
banner

Conducting Association relaunches National competition

The National Association of Brass Band Conductors re-launches its national Conducting Competition.

NABBC
 

The National Association of Brass Band Conductors (NABBC) has announced the revival of the NABBC Conducting Competition, for what is hoped will see it became an annual event.

Date

Coinciding with the organisation's AGM to be held in Elland on Sunday 19th June, 12 finalists will enjoy the opportunity to rehearse part of one of three selected pieces from a list that includes, 'Essay' (Gregson); 'Traversada' (Waespi) and 'Tallis Variations' (Sparke).

Panel

An adjudication panel headed by NABBC President Russell Gray alongside Paul Hoskin, Musical Director of the Rambert Ballet Company, will select 6 finalists to go through to the evening event where they present a single concert item.

The 'Winner Takes All' prize will see the successful conductor offered the opportunity to work in rehearsal and concert with the likes of Foden's, Carlton Main Frickley, Reg Vardy and Whitburn.

Over 18

Applicants must be over 18 and be an active conductor of an ensemble — though they must not be professional conductors.

They must also travel to the venue and provide their own scores for the first round of the competition. Applicants must also be willing to submit a CV of conducting experience as well as a short video clip (5 mins approx) of them rehearsing an ensemble.

I'm delighted that the NABBC is re-establishing this competition. It is so important that talented conductors are given the opportunity to stand in front of leading bands. This event will provide that opportunityRussell Gray

So important

Speaking of the competition, NABBC President, Russell Gray told 4BR: "I'm delighted that the NABBC is re-establishing this competition. It is so important that talented conductors are given the opportunity to stand in front of leading bands. This event will provide that opportunity."

Contact

Anyone interested can contact: national.secretary@nabbc.org.uk for a full entry pack.

Become a supporter and help make our future secure.

4barsrest continues to be a proudly independent voice. There are no paywalls to overcome to be able to enjoy what we do to keep our journalism at the heart of the brass banding world. Support us with a one-off donation or subscribe from just £2.50 per month.

Support us    


Huddersfield

Huddersfield Uni strengthens link with Army

January 11 • The student connection between the University of Huddersfield Wind Band and the Band of the Royal Yorkshire Regiment continues to be strengthened under MD Jim Fieldhouse.


Sine Nomiee

Brookwright Music: Sine Nomine (Vaughan Williams arr. Andrew Wainwright)

January 11 • A wonderful set of four contrasting variations based on 'For all the Saints' by Ralph Vaughan Williams.


Matthew Jones

OBE recognition for Matthew Jones

January 11 • The Senior Producer and Deputy Chief Executive of National Youth Arts Wales has been awarded the OBE in the recent New Year Honours List.


Coalburn

Coalburn awards youth and experience

January 11 • The annual Coalburn Silver Band awards night saw accolades and recognition from the beginners to the most experienced performers.


Newstead Brass - Brett Baker

Saturday 17 January • St Wilfrid's Church, . Kirkby-in-Ashfield NG17 8LA


The Hepworth Band - New Year Concert

Sunday 25 January • Christ Church, New Mill, Holmfirth HD9 7ER


Contest: Norwegian National Brass Band Championships

Friday 6 February • Grieghallen, Bergen, N-5015 N-5015


Contest: Norwegian National Brass Band Championships

Saturday 7 February • Grieghallen, Bergen, N-5015 N-5015


Contest: London & Southern Counties Regional Championships

Saturday 21 March • Arts & Leisure Centre, Lytton Way, Stevenage SG1 1LZ


Cambrian Brass

January 11 • We are a friendly, inclusive and hard-working brass band, welcoming players of all ages and abilities. We are particularly keen to fill our Soprano Cornet, Flugelhorn, Tenor Horn, Euphonium and EEb Bass positions.


Putney and Wimbledon Brass Band

January 8 • Following our promotion to the 2nd section we are looking for a percussionist to do a bit of bing bonging on the timps for the regionals in March. We are a lovely band - everyone says so - so please get in touch. Rehearsals Weds from 1930 in Putney.


Mid Rhondda Band

January 6 • Mid Rhondda Band are currently looking for a trombone player and percussionists to join the team. We are a friendly, welcoming 3rd section band working towards competing in the Welsh Area in March. We also have a variety of events booked for 2026.


Kevin Wadsworth


Conductor, adjudicator, teacher (ABBA)


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd