*
banner

Youth Fest launched by Brass Bands England

A new non-competitive brass festival with a youth oriented ethos of development and progression has been launched by BBE — and you can be a part of it.

yOUTH fEST
  The event will take place in Barnsley in June

Brass Bands England has announced the launch of Youth Fest — a brand new, non-competitive brass festival.

BBE says that it, "endeavours to inspire and engage young people in brass playing in an inclusive environment, encouraging personal development and progression."

The free to take part inaugural festival, celebrating success and participation in music, will take place on Friday 28th June at Barnsley Civic.

Bands of all standards are welcome to play in the high-quality national event, promoting a standard of access and inclusivity in banding.

All abilities

Speaking about the initiative, Brass Bands England Chief Operating Officer Sarah Baumann told 4BR: "Youth Fest is open to young players of all abilities.

It's an ideal occasion for beginner school ensembles to experience a high-quality performance opportunity without the pressure of competition. It's all about motivating young people to continue their brass journey!"

Barnsley base

Sarah added: "We are delighted that we will be bring the event to our home in Barnsley, and working with the Civic — a fellow Barnsley-based Arts Council England National Portfolio Organisation, as our chosen venue."

Find out more and apply:

https://www.bbe.org.uk/youth-education-and-outreach/youth-fest

Applications to take part in Youth Fest 2024 will open on Thursday 1st February.

It's an ideal occasion for beginner school ensembles to experience a high-quality performance opportunity without the pressure of competition. It's all about motivating young people to continue their brass journey!BBE

Information and more details

Ahead of the entry window, bands considering participating will be able to download a Pre-Entry Information Pack, as well as access the Youth Fest guidelines, via the Youth Fest page on the BBE website.

Youth Fest entry for participating bands is free of charge. Places to perform at the event will be allocated on a first-come first-served basis.

All those interested in the event are welcomed to a Youth Fest online information session on Tuesday 6th February (3.45pm), or alternatively Monday 11th March (3.45pm).

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    


Willebroek

World Rankings: September 2026

October 1 • Brass Band Willebroek makes history, claiming top spot in 4barsrest World Rankings after double runner-up finishes at World Championships and British Open.


wOBPLAY

Albert Hall performances to be recorded by World of Brass

September 30 • All the performances from the National Final at the Royal Albert Hall will be audio recorded by World of Brass and made available on wobplay after the results.


Brass in Concert

Brass in Concert announces adjudication panels

September 30 • The judges that will make the decisions at the 49th Brass in Concert Championships have been announced.


4BR podcast

4BR Podcast: Live National Championship Preview

September 30 • Join us on Thursday night for the the 4BR preview of the event and the issues that surround it.


Regent Hall Concerts - The Band of the Irish Guards

Thursday 1 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - Eagle Brass

Thursday 1 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - Consort Brass Quintet

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


Regent Hall Concerts - BoneVoyage Trombone Quartet

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


Regent Hall Concerts - Foden's Band

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


Olney Brass

September 30 • We are a friendly and committed THIRD SECTION band looking for:. . - CORNETS (Front & Back Row). - SOLO HORN. . Engagements and concerts in the Olney/Milton Keynes area.. Rehearsals in Milton Keynes MK15 (5 mins from J14 of M1) on Tuesdays 7.45-9.45pm.


Ashington Colliery Band

September 30 • Tenor Trombone: We're a friendly, ambitious Second Section band based in South East Northumberland just north of Blyth. We rehearse Tuesdays & Thursdays, 19:30-21:30, and transport can be provided depending on location.


Waltham St. Lawrence Silver Band

September 28 • . Our welcoming non-contesting community band, based near Maidenhead, Bracknell and Reading, has openings for: . Percussion, kit and tuned: a lovely pair of timps awaits you!.


Chris Wormald

B.Mus (Hons), LTCL, PGCE
Conductor, adjudicator, arranger


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd