If ever a dark looking cloud had a silver lining, then it has come north of the border with news that a key element of November's postponed Scottish Festival of Brass will be going ahead, albeit as an online event.

The Scottish Virtual Youth Brass Band Festival will take place on Sunday 29 November.

Youth contact

The decision to stage the event was taken by the Scottish Brass Band Association after education officer John Boax had contacted all those youth bands who took part in last year's event to ask if they were interested in participating in a virtual festival.

"The majority were in favour of doing something,"said John. "The main issue for some was the technical expertise involved to achieve a virtual performance.

However, I will offer support to those bands with the help of our technical expert James McGoldrick to overcome any difficulties."

The decision to stage the event was taken by the Scottish Brass Band Association after education officer John Boax had contacted all those youth bands who took part in last year's event4BR

Take part

Youth brass and percussion groups of any size are invited to take part in this virtual event. Entrants must play three contrasting items which must include a Scottish piece.

There will be a mentor's evaluation of every band's performance. Prizes will be awarded for the most entertaining programme and the best performance of the Scottish piece. Every group will receive a certificate of participation.

The closing date for sending in videos is Friday 20th November.