For the first time in its 166 year history, the British Open Championship will be beamed to a worldwide audience following confirmation that the 2019 event will be live-streamed by World of Brass and 4barsrest.

A spokesperson for the British Open told 4BR: "For some time we have received requests from the banding community both in Britain and abroad who have been unable to secure tickets for the contest, or cannot attend because of travel or other limitations, asking if it would be possible to broadcast the contest.

We're therefore delighted that the World of Brass /4barsrest live-stream will enable a worldwide audience to enjoy the contest atmosphere and performances of Peter Graham's new work 'Dynasty' by the world's top bands."

Significant development

The decision by Martin and Karyn Mortimer will be seen as another significant development for an event which has sold-out Symphony Hall in Birmingham in a matter of hours in recent years.

International media interest in the contest also grown, with a documentary feature on the 2018 event entitled, 'Battle of the Brass Bands' to be broadcast by Sky Arts later this month.

4BR also presented a successful live stream broadcast last year from the contest alongside Dutch colleagues from CU Brass. World of Brass and 4barsrest worked together to successfully broadcast the 2019 European Championships in Montreux.

Ethos

The British Open spokesperson added: "We believe that the quality of reporting, recording and streaming that World of Brass and 4barsrest can deliver aligns with the ethos that the British Open and our sponsors Besson value.

Streaming also provides the opportunity to reach a wider audience for the banding movement that we are passionate about, retaining its traditions whilst at the same time looking to the future."

We believe that the quality of reporting, recording and streaming that World of Brass and 4barsrest can deliver aligns with the ethos that the British Open and our sponsors Besson valueBritish Open.

Long term benefits

4BR understands that the initial decision has been taken not only with a view to meet audience demand, but to also develop long term benefits for the competing bands.

Further information on accessing the live-streaming will be published in the band press and on the British Open website in due course.