Ensemble de Cuivres Valaisan (ECV) from Switzerland has announced that it is to hold a composers competition to celebrate the band's 50th anniversary in 2017.

The twice Swiss National Champion was formed in 1967 and was the first 'British style' brass band in the Valais canton of the country.

3,000 Euros

To celebrate their half century of music making the band has set up the competition with a 3,000 euro first prize — and it is open to composers throughout the brass band world.

"We thought it very important to mark this occasion by making a lasting impression,"Band Manager Tristan Larpin, told 4BR. "The three prize winning compositions will bear the special seal of our anniversary and will also enrich the brass band repertoire."

Reward

He added: "The winner will receive 3000 Euros, while the second and third prize winners will receive 1500 and 500 Euros, respectively. These awards should motivate composers to write works that will be rewarded for their excellent talents."

The trio of prize winners will also have their works performed in concert by the band throughout 2017.

More information

The detailed rules of the contest can be found at: www.ecvbrass.ch.