*
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    


Ben Dixon

Dixon docks at Marsden for York challenge

July 24 • Grimethorpe MD, Ben Dixon will lead Marsden Silver Prize Band at the First Section National Finals.


nybbs

Scottish youth ready for NYBBS experience

July 24 • 143 talented young players will head to Perthshire for what promises to be an inspirational week of fun and serious music making.


Band Supplies

Band Supplies: The new Sterling Royale Euphonium and Baritone now available

July 24 • Band Supplies has taken stock of the eagerly anticipated Royale Euphonium and Baritone from Sterling Instruments.


Bandamonium

Countdown on for Bandamonium

July 23 • There will be bandamonium in Devon on Saturday 25th July — and you can enjoy it all live and on demand thanks to NXTOD.


Sherborne Town Band - Free Music in the park

Sunday 26 July • Sherborne, Dorset-Pageant Gardens DT9 3NP


Sherborne Town Band - Free Summer Concert- Trowbridge Park

Sunday 9 August • Summer Concert- Trowbridge Park BA14 8AH


Regent Hall Concerts - Cross Bones Trombone Quintet

Friday 21 August • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Sherborne Town Band - Free-Music in the park

Sunday 23 August • Sherborne, Dorset-Pageant Gardens DT9 3NP


Sherborne Town Band - Free-Music in the park

Sunday 13 September • Sherborne, Dorset-Pageant Gardens DT9 3NP


Ashington Colliery Band

July 24 • Front Row Cornet & Tenor Trombone. We're a friendly, ambitious Second Section band based in South East Northumberland just north of Blyth. We rehearse Tuesdays & Thursdays, 19:30-21:30, and transport can be provided depending on location.


Rushden Town Band

July 23 • Trombone and Bb bass positions available.


Chinnor Silver

July 21 • We are looking for PERCUSSIONISTS to join our ambitious,friendly and hard working 1st section band.Rehearsals are on Wednesdays in our own bandroom (no setting up and down). Good but realistic diary of concerts and contests including tour abroad in 2027.


John Durrant

MA LLCM TD CertEd (Dist)
Conductor, Band Trainer, Composer, Trumpet and Cornet Soloist, Arranger, Adjudicator


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd