*
banner

Interview with Kenny Crookston CEO of Brass Bands England

After taking up his new role Brass Bands England CEO Kenny Crookston gives his first major interview to 4BR

Crookston
  New BBE CEO Kenny Crookston talks to 4BR

In his first major interview since taking up his role as Chief Executive Officer of Brass Bands England, Kenny Crookston talks to 4BR Editor Iwan Fox.

Over 45 minutes, broken into three segments, he's asked why he applied for the role and how it affects his other interests such as his ownership of British Bandsman magazine, his directorship role at Brass in Concert and at IBB Media.

Vision

He also outlines his vision to what he believes are the main challenges ahead for organisation as well as outlining his desire to work constructively with other bodies and the media to help benefit English banding.

However, he does admit that the clock is now ticking on what BBE must achieve, and whilst telling 4BR what strengths he brings to the role, he also touches on how he currently sees English banding stacking up against European rivals.

The 45 minute major interview covers all aspects of his role and what he wants to be able to achive4BR

Future targets

His views on future targets, the recent youth championship consultation, what BBE can do for bands and how it will link with other national bodies and the European banding culture are also addressed.

Become a supporter and help make our future secure.

4barsrest continues to be a proudly independent voice. There are no paywalls to overcome to be able to enjoy what we do to keep our journalism at the heart of the brass banding world. Support us with a one-off donation or subscribe from just £2.50 per month.

Support us    


Cory

Cory set for Orbital premiere

January 18 • A visit from the composer Richard Blackford and conductor Martyn Brabbins adds to the levels of preparation ahead of eagerly anticipated world premiere at RNCM Festival.


Whitburn

Whitburn awards youth and experience

January 18 • The Scottish champion presents its annual awards to players of all ages and experience who have done their bit to keep the organisation at the top of their game.


Ralph Brill

Brill appointment at Dalmellington

January 18 • Ralph Brill has become the new resident conductor at Dalmellington Band.


cooperation

Perc addition to coop attractions

January 18 • The Brass in Concert Champion has launched a new monthly percussion ensemble open to players of all ages and experience.


Newstead Brass - Brett Baker

Saturday 17 January • St Wilfrid's Church, . Kirkby-in-Ashfield NG17 8LA


The Hepworth Band - New Year Concert

Sunday 25 January • Christ Church, New Mill, Holmfirth HD9 7ER


Contest: Norwegian National Brass Band Championships

Friday 6 February • Grieghallen, Bergen, N-5015 N-5015


Contest: Norwegian National Brass Band Championships

Saturday 7 February • Grieghallen, Bergen, N-5015 N-5015


Regent Hall Concerts - Royal Greenwich Brass Band

Friday 27 February • Regent Hall. (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


East London Brass

January 16 • CORNET PLAYER - looking ahead to the 2026 contest season, ELB are looking for a cornet player to complete our line up. The band is ambitious and keen to further our successful 2025 season of winning the areas and promotion at spring festival.


Enderby Band

January 16 • Following our 2nd place finish at the LBBA winter contest and recent promotion to the Senior Cup for the 2026 Spring Festival, we are looking for a SOLO CORNET, a BBb BASS and PERCUSSIONISTS to complete our friendly and hardworking team.


Petworth Town Band

January 15 • Petworth Town Band have vacancies for CORNETS, BASS TROMBONE and TUBA. We are a very active band with concerts and engagements planned throughout the year.


John Ward


Conductor, Adjudicator


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd