The organisers of the Butlin's Open Brass Band Festival have announced wide-ranging changes to the format of the 2021 event, which will take place at Butlin's Resort in Skegness from 8th-11th January.

Changes

Only bands in the Championship Section will now have a set test-piece, with those in Sections 1-3 playing own-choice works.

Bands in the Fourth Section will now play 20-minute own-choice programmes with no restriction on content, to be assessed by open adjudication.

The Championship Section contest will retain its current format. The set-work will be the popular 'Paganini Variations' by Phillip Wilby, which was first used as a test-piece at the 1991 British Open.

As an added bonus, the winner of the Most Entertaining Band prize in the Sunday entertainment contest will now receive an invitation to the Brass in Concert Championship at Sage Gateshead the following November.

Discount

Entries are now open for the 2021 Festival and those entering before 30th April will receive a £25 discount on the £100 fee.

Through the Butlin's partnership with Brass Bands England, member organisations of BBE will receive a further £25 discount on their entry fee, meaning that bands can now take part in the most sociable event on the calendar for as little as £50!

To book your accommodation for the weekend you can now go directly to www.Butlins.com

Reflection

Speaking about the changes, Butlins Festival Director, Steve Walker, told 4BR; "It's important for the organisers of any major event to reflect on its format and how it affects the wider aims of the participants.

Having consulted with a variety of stakeholders, we're confident that our new format will make it easier for bands to attend in future years."

Own choice and open adjudication

He added: "We are aware that some find the early January date difficult, especially with the restrictions it can make on rehearsal time.

The introduction of own-choice tests in Sections 1-3, and what we are sure will be entertaining programmes in the Fourth Section will make it easier for bands to include their Butlin's music in their activities during the previous months.

By opening up the judging of the Fourth Section we also hope to be able to provide a more relaxed environment for the bands at this level and provide feedback tailored to the nature of the performers themselves, some of whom may be giving their first contest performances."

Having consulted with a variety of stakeholders, we're confident that our new format will make it easier for bands to attend in future yearsButlins Festival Director, Steve Walker

Brass in Concert

Addressing the link to the Brass in Concert Championships Steve added: "We would like to thank our friends at Brass in Concert for their future ongoing invitation to our most entertaining band, which we hope will encourage our Championship contenders to push boundaries in terms of entertainment."

Looking forward to next January Steve added: "We would like to encourage groups at all levels, and from all corners of the world of brass bands, to join us in Skegness.

With over 4,000 visitors on site during the weekend they can all be assured of a vibrant and friendly atmosphere, while the musical changes we have made are guaranteed to provide fantastic variety for the listener.

Add in terrific entertainment sets from our leading bands on the Sunday, the most generous prize fund in all of banding and some breathtaking playing from our guest evening performers, all presented by the one and only Frank Renton, and you have the perfect recipe for an exceptional banding weekend!"

Enter

Bands can enter the 2021 Butlin's Open Brass Band Festival by visiting https://www.bbe.org.uk/civicrm/event/info?id=75&reset=1

Accommodation packages can be booked at www.butlins.com