The Lord Mayor of Birmingham has led the official welcome to participants and audiences travelling to the city this weekend for the European Brass Band Festival.

Ten events will take place across four days, with almost 70 bands featured in competition and concert performances from Thursday in an event which has been recognised by Arts Council England as being of 'national significance'.

Lord Mayor

In his official address, Lord Mayor of Birmingham, Councillor Muhammad Afzal, said: "I am delighted to welcome all bands, officials and lovers of brass band music to the city of Birmingham for the 2022 European Brass Band Festival.

It presents a unique opportunity for us all to enjoy a celebration of brass music from musicians of all standards and experience.

I am very much looking forward to witnessing school and community groups, from the Birmingham area and beyond, appearing at the same event as the finest bands from across Europe, in this wonderful festival of music in our vibrant city."

He added: "2022 is, of course, a very special year for Birmingham. We will also host the Commonwealth Games, with a rich programme of cultural events already underway across the West Midlands.

We hope that you have a rewarding experience and that you can visit us again, either for the Games or future events at Town Hall, Symphony Hall or on Centenary Square."

Mayor of West Midlands

A major attraction will be the #ThisIsBanding Outdoor Stage, sponsored by Besson, which will offer an exciting opportunity to showcase many bands from the city and the wider region, including Birmingham Citadel Band, Royal Birmingham Conservatoire Band, and the Royal Spa Brass Oompah Band.

Meanwhile, Andy Street, the Mayor of the West Midlands, added: "Music and the arts have always been an important part of life here in the West Midlands.

May I extend a warm West Midlands welcome to the many musicians from across Europe and I hope they enjoy their stay, taking full advantage of our world renowned hospitality.

I'm also thrilled to learn that there will be plenty of local musical participation including Sandwell's Langley Band, City of Birmingham Brass Band, and of course a diverse range of school bands."

I am delighted to welcome all bands, officials and lovers of brass band music to the city of Birmingham for the 2022 European Brass Band FestivalLord Mayor of Birmingham, Councillor Muhammad Afzal

Chief Executive

Alongside the free outdoor performances, EBBF's ticketed concerts and the European Brass Band Championships will take place in Birmingham's esteemed Town Hall and Symphony Hall venues.

Nick Reed, the Chief Executive Officer of B:Music which runs the acclaimed Town Hall and Symphony Hall venues also welcomes visitors and performers.

"Symphony Hall has long been a likely and welcoming home for brass bands and our team are delighted to be showcasing them by hosting this important international event.

I'm looking forward to welcoming a wide range of exceptional performing groups to our venues for our audiences to enjoy. I'm certain that everyone who attends will discover something new and find something to be inspired by."

Thrilled

In response to the warm welcome, Kenny Crookston, CEO of Brass Bands England, commented: "It's great to see this event back on English soil. Birmingham is an important home for banding and we are thrilled to be hosted by Symphony Hall and Town Hall, to bring the very best brass bands alongside their excellent season of concerts.

I hope this event gives new audiences a chance to come and discover brass music — you won't be disappointed!"

Tickets:

Limited tickets are still available via: https://bmusic.co.uk/ebbf-2022