The final of the National Association of Brass Band Conductors, conducting competition will take place in Elland on Sunday — and the doors are open to everyone to come along and support the event.

Free support

12 talented conductors will be whittled down during the day to get six finalists who will take to the stage to direct Eccles Band in a concert environment, starting at 7.30pm at Bertie's Bistro in Brook Street, Elland (HX5 9AW).

Conductors

The conductors who have been chosen to compete for the first prize of the chance to work in rehearsals and concerts with the likes of Foden's, Carlton Main Frickley, Reg Vardy and Whitburn, are Brendan Breslin, Mark Edwards, Aiden Hodgson, James Kierle, Andrew Mallon, Craig Mann, John Pearson, Garry Perrin, Rob Richardson, Tom Ridgley, Matt Shaw and Christopher Small.

Each will direct a short rehearsal on either 'Essay' (Gregson), 'Tallis Variations' (Sparke) or 'Traversada' (Waespi) with their efforts evaluated by adjudicators Russell Gray (NABBC President) and Paul Hoskins (Musical Director of Rambert Ballet Company).

Each of the six finalists will then conduct and compere one of six items in an evening concert setting directing Eccles Band.

The evening concert is also a great way to round things off, and with free entry we hope to see a packed and appreciative audience there to enjoy the proceedingsNABBC President, Russell Gray

Excellent finalists

Russell Gray told 4BR: "We have excellent finalists and we are really looking forward to what promises to be a great day.

The evening concert is also a great way to round things off, and with free entry we hope to see a packed and appreciative audience there to enjoy the proceedings."