*
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    


British Open

Livestream broadcasts brought in-house for Spring Festival and British Open

April 16 • The 2026 Spring Festival and British Open Championships will be broadcast in a new link between the organisers and Red Shell Productions.


NYBBGB

NYBBGB ready to add to plaudits in Manchester

April 16 • The National Youth Brass Band of Great Britain will head to the RNCM in Manchester this weekend.


BBE Young Leaders

Brass Bands England to help new youth leaders

April 16 • A course aimed at enhancing specialised skills to inspire the next generation of brass band players is launched with increased capacity by BBE.


Field of the Cloth of Gold

Wright & Round: Field of the Cloth of Gold (Philip Harper)

April 16 • An exciting concert work that recalls a historic summit of superpowers...


Hathersage Band - Hathersage Village Spring Concert

Saturday 18 April • Hathersage Methodist Church . Main Road. Hathersage S32 1BB


Regent Hall Concerts - Central Band of the Royal Air Force

Friday 1 May • Regent Hall. (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - Royal Greenwich Brass Band

Sunday 3 May • St Alfege Church. Greenwich Church Street SE10 9BJ


Regent Hall Concerts - FiveBy5 Trumpet Quintet

Tuesday 5 May • Charlton House and Gardens. Charlton Road, . London. . SE7 8RE


Regent Hall Concerts - Royal Greenwich Brass Band

Friday 8 May • Regent Hall. (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Waterbeach Brass

April 16 • Waterbeach Brass are seeking a talented and confident solo (tutti) cornet player to join our friendly and ambitious band. We offer a welcoming and social environment with a diverse and challenging musical repertoire playing at regular concerts and contests


Chinnor Silver

April 15 • With the dust settling after the areas we are looking for Bb BASS & PERCUSSION players to join us as we look to consolidate as a 1st Section Band.. Varied but realistic diary for the coming year and possible foreign trip in 2027. Rehearsals on a Wednesday


Linthwaite Band

April 15 • We are a welcoming 4th section band with a vacancy for a kit player. Our calendar is filling up with various contests and engagements to fulfil through the year.


Simon Gresswell


Conductor, adjudicator, tutor, tuba specialist


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd