With the European Brass Band Championships due to take place in Birmingham at the end of the month 4BR has begun a new interview series with players, conductors and personalities who have made their mark on the event.

And what better way to start than a player who was part of the band that won the first ever contest at the Royal Albert Hall in 1978 — Philip McCann and Black Dyke Mills Band.

Philip went on to play in the Champion band on no fewer than seven occasions — each under the baton of the legendary Peter Parkes.

2022 European Championships

To find out more about the 2022 European Championships in Birmingham and to book tickets for the events go to: https://www.bbe.org.uk/ebbf