French Champion Paris Brass Band has confirmed that they will not defend their title at the 2017 National Championships in Lyon in February.

After winning the title for the past five years, the announcement comes despite their best efforts to put in place a feasible rehearsal schedule that could accommodate many of their professional players.

Radio broadcasts

4BR understands that the band has been due to give a second performance of Olivier Calmel's acclaimed oratorio 'Ecce Homo, Ecce Paris' with the Youth Choir of French Radio.

They gave the premiere in the French Radio Concert Hall in December and it was broadcast as the main feature on France Musique (France's Radio 3) last Sunday. The concert and broadcast also included Oliver Waespi's 'Hypercube'.

European appearance

The band has confirmed however that they will participate in the European Brass Band Championships in Ostend in May.

The band has confirmed however that they will participate in the European Brass Band Championships in Ostend in May4BR

Not feasible

The band's Facebook page announced: "The beginning of the season was very busy and our musicians must respond to their professional activities. Despite our best efforts, a consistent preparation, therefore, is not feasible this year at this time.

Good luck to all participants of this edition of the championship of France."