*
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    


Eikanger-Bjørsvik celebrating

World Rankings: April 2026

April 9 • Eikanger-Bjørsvik return to the top of the rankings following their recent victory at the Norwegian Championships in Bergen.


Victoria Wood

Limited tickets only for NYBBGB Easter concerts

April 8 • There are only limited tickets left if you wish to enjoy the New Horizons Concerts of the National Youth Brass Band of Great Britain Leyburn and Manchester — so be quick.


Doodles

Spring upgrade from Doodles

April 8 • The bespoke mouthpiece business is offering a Spring custom upgrade...


Banstand

Radio: Bandstand

April 8 • More brass band music to enjoy from Lucas Burns in Australia with one work about a dog and a bomb...


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


Wardle Anderson Brass Band - Wardle Junior Blast

Friday 8 May • Milnrow Parish Church, 16 Westward Ho, Milnrow, Rochdale OL16 3JX


Glossop Old Band

April 9 • Our friendly second section band are looking for a principal cornet player to join us for contests, concerts and exciting new projects. Glossop Old Band is situated between Manchester and Sheffield and rich in history.


Harrogate Band

April 8 • We are looking for a Solo Cornet and Back Row Cornet to complete our team. . Interesting mix of engagements and contests. . Rehearsals Wednesday 8pm at our own bandroom located next to Hornbeam Park train station. Great transport links


Glossop Old Band

April 8 • Our friendly second section band are looking for a BB bass player to join us for contests, concerts and exciting new projects. Glossop Old Band is situated between Manchester and Sheffield and rich in history.


Alan Widdop


Conductor, Brass teacher, Adjudicator (ABBA)


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd