The 12 band line-up of competitors for this year's Brass in Concert Championship has been announced.

The 43rd festival, held in association with Yamaha, Banks Group and British Bandsman will be held at Sage Gateshead on the weekend of 16th/17th November.

In addition to the contest, the Saturday evening 'Classic Brass' Gala Concert will feature Brighouse & Rastrick alongside euphonium star David Childs. Earlier in the day, seven outstanding youth bands will compete in the second Youth Brass in Concert Championship.

Strong challenge

Defending champion Cory will face a strong challenge from last year's runner-up, Carlton Main Frickley, Area champions Brighouse & Rastrick, City of Hull, Flowers, Friary and Tredegar, as well as Grand Shield winners NASUWT Riverside.

Meanwhile, Dutch contender, Brass Band Schoonhoven, will make a welcome return while there is a debut appearance for 2019 French champion, Hautes-de-France. At the other end of the Brass in Concert experience list, Reg Vardy will make its 40th appearance at the event with Hammonds returning for a second successive year.

Brighouse & Rastrick
Carlton Main Frickley Colliery
City of Hull
Cory
Flowers
Friary
Hammonds
Hauts-de-France
NASUWT Riverside
Reg Vardy
Schoonhoven
Tredegar

Excellent line-up

Speaking on behalf of the organisers, BiC Chairman, John Woods, commented: "We're delighted that the Championship will feature such an excellent line-up and we will be especially pleased to be joined by two outstanding bands from France and The Netherlands — all introduced for the 26th time by the inimitable Frank Renton."

John added: "Saturday is becoming unmissable for all fans of brass music and we're pleased to present the second Youth Brass in Concert Championship, which will take place in Sage One on Saturday afternoon.

The popular Tasters sessions and Workshops will once again take place, while we are sure the Gala Concert will prove to be hugely entertaining."

We're delighted that the Championship will feature such an excellent line-up and we will be especially pleased to be joined by two outstanding bands from France and The NetherlandsBiC Chairman, John Woods

Youth investment

John also revealed that there will be a substantial prize fund for the youth championship event, with a first prize of £1,000 with the second placed band receiving £500. All other bands will receive £250.

"This event is as much about experience, opportunity, inclusion and education as the battle for awards, but there will no doubt be an electric and colourful atmosphere created by every band.

Those fortunate enough to attend last year's inaugural Youth Brass in Concert Championship will no doubt have been at the front of the queue for tickets this time!"

Further announcements regarding the adjudicators and the draw for order of play will be made in the next few weeks.

Tickets:

Youth Brass in Concert Entertainment Championship
Saturday 16th November
Prices: £12 and £6 (concessions)

World of Brass in Concert Gala Concert
Saturday 16th November
Brighouse & Rastrick and David Childs
Prices: £27, £18 and £10

Brass in Concert Championship
Sunday 17th November
Prices: £33, £25 and £15.

Booking fees will apply.

Available from Sage Gateshead Ticket Office on 0191 443 4661 or online at www.sagegateshead.com