The 75th annual South West Brass Band Association (SWBBA) Championships will take place at the Riviera International Centre in Torquay on Saturday 4th November.

Since its inception the event has provided an invaluable competition environment, helping to enhance contesting standards for bands at all levels.

Originating after the Second World War the championships have been held in various locations including Exeter, Barnstaple and Paignton.

Proud history

Speaking about the 2023 event and its proud history, John Woods, Vice Chairman of SWBBA told 4BR: "We're delighted to welcome everyone to Torquay once again and especially as this is a milestone occasion.

It is a wonderful achievement and one to celebrate in keeping the brass band contesting tradition alive and vibrant. There will be so much to enjoy."

He added: "This is seen with a highly encouraging entry of 11 bands in the Open Section, and with a total entry of 25 bands we are also looking forward to a wide range of music in the six sections.

This includes the wonderful Youth and Training Band Sections which form the crucial foundation on which we hope another 75 years of contests can be built."

Judges and congratulations

John confirmed that Sam Fisher will adjudicate the Fourth, Third and Open Sections, with composer Christopher Bond judging the Training, Youth and Second Section.

SWBBA also offered its congratulations to Porthleven Town Band and conductor Tom Bassett on recently becoming Third Section Champion Band of Great Britain. The band is due to perform at the contest.

SWBBA President Leonard Adams will present the prizes with several band traders also supporting the event

Tickets and workshops

General tickets will be available on contest day (cash or card) and refreshment and trade stands available all day in the Arena. Doors open at 9.00am with the first scheduled performance in the Fourth Section commencing at 9.30am.

It was also announced that a 'Cornet & Flugel' workshop will be held on Saturday 25th November (10.00am to 5.00pm) at St Francis Church Hall, Sidmouth, led by Black Dyke Band star, Richard Marshall.

A 'Winter Workshop' will also be held at West Buckland in February featuring the Foden's Band trio of Mark Wilkinson, Gary Curtin and Michael Fowles.

Application details will be released soon for 10th & 11th February 2024 at West Buckland School North Devon.

SWBBA also offered its congratulations to Porthleven Town Band and conductor Tom Bassett on recently becoming Third Section Champion Band of Great Britain. The band is due to perform at the contest4BR

Open Section:

Chalford Band
City of Cardiff (Melingriffith) M1
Glastonbury Brass
Helston Town
Lanner & District Silver
Roche Brass
Sherborne Town
Sidmouth Town
South West Comms
Wootton-under-Edge & District
St Austell Town

Second Section:

Porthleven Town
South Molton Town

Third Section:

Bideford Town
Exeter Railway
Porthleven Town
Saltash Town
South Molton Town

Fourth Section:

Bay Brass
Indian Queens
Saltash Town
Weymouth Concert Brass

Youth Section:

St Austell Youth Band

Training Section:

Porthleven Town Training
Plymouth Soundhouse Training