4BR has been informed that due to the ongoing measures taken by the government in The Netherlands over the COVID-19 Coronavirus pandemic, that both the Dutch Open Brass Band Championship and Groningen Brass Experience have been cancelled.

The Dutch Open was to be the musical centre-piece of the Groningen Brass Experience which was due to have taken place from the 11th-14th June in De Oosterpoort Groningen.

Unavoidable

PR spokesperson, Amarens Melchers-Visser told 4BR: "The Dutch Open had attracted a maximum entry of 18 bands for what promised to be a wonderful event.

The organisation regrets to cancel these events, but realises fully that this is unavoidable considering the world wide pandemic."

They added: "After consultation with sponsors and partners -SPOT/ Oosterpoort, Noord Nederlands Orkest, Prince Claus Conservatoire Groningen, BrassPass.tv, Yamaha, Muziekbond Groningen en Drenthe, VRIJDAG Advies en de Provinciale Brassband Groningen it has been decided to postpone the festival till June 2021."

The organisation regrets to cancel these events, but realises fully that this is unavoidable considering the world wide pandemicorganisers

2021 return

4BR was informed that the organisers have contacted all participating bands about the cancellation and have confirmed that next year's Dutch Open Championships will be held on 12th June 2021 as part of the Groningen Brass Experience festival taking place from Thursday 10th June to Sunday 13th June.