*
banner

BrassPass.tv Band of the Year announces green light decision

If Covid-19 route-map goes to plan organisers hope to host contest on July 3rd in Bolton.

Band of the Year
  The contest is scheduled for Saturday 3rd July.

IBB Media Ltd, the owner of the 'BrassPass.tv Band of the Year' contest, has announced that following news of the 'route-map' out of COVID restrictions released recently by the UK government, it plans to host its event on Saturday July 3rd at the Albert Halls in Bolton.

4BR was informed that the organisers recognise that this will still be Covid-19 dependent but should the Government tests for relaxation of current rules proceed as planned, with social distancing restrictions being fully relaxed on June 21st, they believe the event could take place with a capacity audience.

In the event adverse Covid conditions do not allow the contest to go ahead on July 3rd, a reserve date of October 30th has been agreed with the venue.

All eventualities

Speaking about the decision, Managing Director, Martin Gernon said: "We are prepared for all eventualities for this year's contest and recognise the need for fluidity with both bands and audience.

However, the banding community has been starved of live music and competition for 15 months now and there is a massive impetus to hold the event in July, with safety of players and audience forefront in our minds."

He added: "The appetite for this event, both from a player and audience perspective, is huge, but the championship going ahead will also be really significant for the wider brass band world.

This will kick-start live performance and competition and as such, we feel we have a duty to the banding world to put on an extraordinary event. This will be the first major competition for well over a year and the UK will be leading the way."

Tickets

4BR was informed that customers who have retained their tickets from last year's cancelled contest will have their ticket transferred automatically to the new date and in the same seats.

Tickets for the remaining seats will go on sale in the next few days via Quay Tickets at: www.quaytickets.com

Should the event be required to be socially distanced, customers who cannot be accommodated will receive a full and immediate refund.

the banding community has been starved of live music and competition for 15 months now and there is a massive impetus to hold the event in July, with safety of players and audience forefront in our mindsMartin Gernon

Line-up

Martin Gernon added: "We expect demand for tickets to be extremely high so my advice is to book early to avoid disappointment. The Albert Halls has excellent bar and restaurant facilities, which when restrictions are fully lifted on June 21st, can be enjoyed to their fullest extent."

4BR understands that the full line-up of bands will be announced shortly and the format of a 30-minute own choice programme to include a soloist item, will remain.

Become a supporter and help make our future secure.

4barsrest continues to be a proudly independent voice. There are no paywalls to overcome to be able to enjoy what we do to keep our journalism at the heart of the brass banding world. Support us with a one-off donation or subscribe from just £2.50 per month.

Support us    


4BR review

4BR Review podcast — National Final retrospective

October 14 • Join the live podcast on Wednesday evening to look back at a memorable Albert Hall contest.


National Band of New Zealand

New Zealand names 2026 brass band All Blacks

October 14 • The players who will represent the nation as their National Band have been announced.


Coleridge

Besses help mark Coleridge-Taylor anniversary

October 14 • Besses o' th' Barn Band has helped to provide a timely celebration of the life and music of the pioneering composer black composer Samuel Coleridge-Taylor.


BrookWright Music

BrookWright Music: Christmas for Two

October 14 • Christmas for Two — 70 Traditional Christmas Songs & Carols for two alike instruments


Regent Hall Concerts - Regent Hall Band of the Salvation Army

Tuesday 14 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. WC1 2DJ W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - Berkeley Brass

Friday 17 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. WC1 2DJ W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - Wigfield Brass Quintet

Friday 17 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. WC1 2DJ W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - Regent Brass

Friday 17 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. WC1 2DJ W1C2DJ


Regent Brass - Brett Baker

Friday 17 October • The Salvation Army (Regent Hall), 275 Oxford Street, London WC1 2DJ


Reading Spring Gardens Brass Band

October 14 • Eb and Bb Bass Players Wanted! . Our friendly and welcoming brass band is seeking enthusiastic bass players to strengthen our lower end.. Rehearsals are on Thursday evenings, 8-10pm in Woodley near Reading.


Dobcross Silver Band

October 13 • Currently 3rd Section National Champions and subsequent promotion to SECOND SECTION in 2026, we aim to add another PERCUSSIONIST to our award winning section. Dynamic all rounder preferred. You will love it here! Great rehearsals, gigs and socials!


Dobcross Silver Band

October 13 • Current 3rd Section National Champions and pending promotion to 2ND SECTION. We require the services of a competent PRINCIPAL CORNET PLAYER. Great opportunity for someone to show their skills and leadership qualities! Enjoyable events and socials!. Contact


Ian Holmes

BA (hons), PGDip (RCM), ARCM, ALCM
Conductor, piano accompanist and educator


               

 © 2025 4barsrest.com Ltd