The organisers of the 2017 UniBrass Championships have announced a host of opportunities to be enjoyed at this year's event held at the Harrogate International Conference Centre on Saturday 18th February.

Free workshops

UniBrass will be running free workshops for anyone learning to play a brass instrument with support from Besson Instruments and led by members of Cory Band.

The series of sessions will prepare the delegates for a performance in the main auditorium during a break in the UniBrass Trophy contest.

Chance to learn

A spokesperson told 4BR: "This offers a chance to learn from some of the finest players of the world's number one ranked band — and the opportunity to hear Cory in action at the Gala Concert taking place later in the day.

Players of all ages with an approximate ability from Grade 3 upwards are welcome to come and take part."

To register, go to: unib.co.uk/workshops

Youth adjudicators

UniBrass is also looking for a panel of Youth Adjudicators. In conjunction with the Association of Brass Band Adjudicators the four volunteers should be aged between 14 and 18 and will pass their own judgement on the performances in the UniBrass Shield event.

The spokesperson added: "The panel will not only get to enjoy the performances, but will also gain invaluable adjudication experience with guidance from the Association of Brass Band Adjudicators.

The panel's placings will not affect the results, but their verdicts will be published on our website following the contest. They will also have the opportunity to write up their experiences of the day."

If you are interested in being part of the youth panel, contact: contact@unibrass.co.uk

In conjunction with the Association of Brass Band Adjudicators the four volunteers should be aged between 14 and 18 and will pass their own judgement on the performances in the UniBrass Shield event4BR

Participation

In an additional move to encourage youth participation, the members of Tewit Youth Band Seniors will also take part in the results ceremony.

Tewit Band President Colin Gibbs told 4BR: "We are delighted UniBrass will be hosted in Harrogate and we are really looking forward to being a part of the day!"

Meanwhile, Brass Bands England's newly-established 'Youth Forum' will meet during the day. The forum comprises under 18s, students and representatives from different organisations with the aim of supporting youth banding and developing player recruitment and retention.

Tickets:

Tickets for the Championships are available from: unib.co.uk/tickets