4BR has been informed that there has been widespread interest from aspiring brass band conductors from around the world to compete in the 2017 National Association of Brass Band Conductors (NABBC) National Conducting Competition — with the event now attracted the support of a new co-sponsor in Centre Stage Uniforms.

Final

The final will take place on 10th June at the Fallibroome Academy in Macclesfield following the Association's annual general meeting following an exhaustive series of application by CV and video performance.

12 conductors will be selected to perform one of three pieces with the Roberts Bakery Band at the Fallibroome Academy, with six chosen to go through to the final round consisting of open to the public rehearsal time and evening concert with Foden's Band.

Each finalist will present and perform their piece it during the first half of the concert. The adjudicators will deliberate on their decision during the second half whilst Foden's provide concert entertainment.

Worldwide

New NABBC Chairperson, Mareika Gray told 4BR: "Since we announced the date of the competition we have received enquires and entries from all around the musical world — from Europe to Australia.

We are thrilled by the response and delighted that we have also been able to attract a co-sponsor in Centre Stage Uniforms who do so much to support the brass band movement.

The competition offers such a high -profile opportunity for an ambitious conductor to gain invaluable experience through the competition and for the winner to gain an exceptional opportunity to work with leading bands."

Centre Stage MD Martin Gernon added: "We are delighted to be able to support this important event, which we see as such a wonderful opportunity to help develop the next generation of great brass band conductors. It forms an important part of our ongoing commitment to the banding movement."

We are thrilled by the response and delighted that we have also been able to attract a co-sponsor in Centre Stage Uniforms who do so much to support the brass band movementNABBC Chairperson, Mareika Gray

Entry:

Applicants must be over 18 and be an active conductor of an ensemble. It should be noted that there is no stipulation or requirement that their ensemble should be a brass band.

Successful applicants must travel to the venue and provide their own scores for the first round of the competition. They must also supply a short CV of their conducting experience, as well as provide a video (between 5 and 10 minutes) of them rehearsing or performing with an ensemble.

The adjudicators for the event are Mark Heron, conducting tutor at the RNCM, and Michael Fowles, Musical Director of Foden's Band.

Prize:

The prize will be the opportunity to rehearse and perform as part of a concert with four high profile British brass bands.

Contact:

Persons interested can contact:
national.secretary@nabbc.org.uk