BrassPass.tv has announced the launch of an ambitious 'UK Band of the Year' contest to be held at The Stoller Hall, Chethams Music School in 2019.

4BR has been informed that the event is to be held on 22nd June with invitations to compete being sent to the top 10 bands in the UK according to the official world rankings as at the end of December 2018.

The format is to be an own-choice, 30-minute programme.

Not an entertainment format

However, IBB Media Ltd Managing Director, Martin Gernon stressed to 4BR that it will not be an entertainment contest.

"We want a showcase event where bands can perform to their full capability, with their own choice of repertoire,"he stated.

"The only stipulation in the programming is that it needs to include a soloist item. Other than that, bands can be as daring, innovative and far reaching as they wish."

Open adjudication

He added: "The event will be under open adjudication, with three internationally renowned top-class musicians forming the panel.

No element of the judges scoring system will be allocated to entertainment, with 100% of the marks attributed to playing. In the event of a tie, the band with the higher ranked soloist will take precedence."

Zero financial burden

Martin also revealed that there will be no entry fee and a "minimum prize fund of £10,000", with £5,000 to the winners, £3,000 for runner-up and £2,000 for third. Competing bands will be given generous travel allowances.

He continued: "The timings of the event ensure no band will require an overnight hotel stay, thereby making the contest a zero financial burden on bands. The event will be pre-drawn to further assist band travel and preparation.

We believe this will be the blueprint for which all major contests in the future will need to consider."

We believe this will be the blueprint for which all major contests in the future will need to considerMartin Gernon

Favourable response

He also stated that he has had a favourable initial response from potential competitors.

"The response from the UK bands who are likely to be invited to this event has been extremely positive and we are confident of a great line up,"he said.

"Due to the strength of the competing field, the ranking points for this event will be extremely high and a new trophy is to be commissioned."

Live streamed

He concluded: "It forms part of 'The Big Weekend', with a Gala Concert given by Black Dyke Band on the evening of the 22nd and the finals of a new Solo & Quartet competition.

The event will be live-streamed around the world by BrassPass.TV as well as to what is expected to be, a capacity audience at The Stoller Hall."