The Sheffield Brass Network, a not-for-profit organisation established to increase the profile and visibility of brass bands in the Sheffield City region of the UK is to hold a networking day to explore a communal approach to improving media contact and audience engagement.

It comes at a time when brass banding is enjoying a rare spotlight in the national media with the documentary series 'Battle of the Brass Bands' currently being broadcast on the Sky Arts channel.

Profile

However, bands continue to battle with the difficulties of enhancing their profile both locally as well as nationally, whilst also remaining relevant and connected with audiences.

These issues will be tackled at the free event on Wednesday 25th September, which will be open to any brass band, brass ensemble, or brass or percussion player resident or based in the Sheffield City region — which includes, Sheffield, Rotherham, Doncaster, Barnsley, Chesterfield, North East Derbyshire, Bolsover, Derbyshire Dales, and Bassetlaw.

Free event

The evening event (7.00pm start) will be led by a series of experienced speakers who will present information on how to provide more effective contact with the media and audiences.

It will be held at The Foundry Studio in Sheffield, which is a central location only a few minutes walk from the train and bus station and train station Supertram stop.

The evening event (7.00pm start) will be led by a series of experienced speakers who will present information on how to provide more effective contact with the media and audiencesorganisers

Presentations

A spokesperson told 4BR: "There will be open networking opportunities and refreshments until 7.30pm and brief information about the Sheffield Youth Brass Collective and current links with the local Sheffield City Region Music Hubs.

A presentation will be made by Brass Bands England who will provide valuable general as well as making sure people know about their own upcoming Brass Band Conference."

Professional photographer and Thoresby Band member Joy Newbold, will provide essential photography and image tips for brass bands, whilst University of Sheffield BMus (hons) and MA Musicology graduate Alex Burns, will present an important session on the successful use of blogging and social media.

Dr Sarah Price, an audience researcher and member of the Sheffield Performer and Audience Research Centre (SPARC) has worked with numerous arts organisations, and will present an overview of audience engagement issues and potential solutions.

The event will close around 9.30pm.

Sign up

Please note that seating at this event is limited.

The most recent Sheffield Brass Network event was very well attended; therefore, to ensure your place, please register for your free ticket at https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/sheffield-brass-network-tickets-69986021073