Allan Withington's acclaimed Conductor Summer School will be based in the UK this year, with the opportunity being offered for aspiring conductors of all levels to enjoy four days of intensive inspiration in finding out more about the ultimate question of 'To beat or not to beat'.

Time and place

It takes place at South Kirkby, Pontefract in South Yorkshire from the 26th — 29th June aided by Carlton Main Frickey Colliery Band. A final Gala Concert will round off the course on Sunday 29th June (3.00pm) at The Grove Hall, Stockingate, South Kirkby (WF9 3QF).

'To Beat or not to Beat' has been made possible by the generous support of Brass Bands England and the Arts Council of Great Britain.
Speaking to 4BR Allan said: "I'm delighted that Carlton Main Frickley Colliery Band has accepted the invitation to be host band and they will provide the necessary expertise on which the students can practice their art.

This is a wonderful opportunity to learn by working with one of the UKs leading Championship Section bands."

To beat or not to beat

He added: "'To Beat or not to Beat' will explore a different aspect of brass band conducting to help conductors gain greater insight into the music we perform. Not just the how, but also the why and whether, more, less or even nothing at all can enhance performances — and also our rehearsals.

How do we keep the interest of a band throughout a long rehearsal session and the interest of an audience throughout a concert?"

Not just the how, but also the why and whether, more, less or even nothing at all can enhance performancesAllan Withington

Carlton Main Frickley

Band Manager Robert Browne told 4BR that they are also looking forward to working with the conductors.

"It's a privilege for Carlton Main to be involved in such an exciting project especially in the heart of our community. We can't wait to meet and work with all of the students, and we thank Allan, Brass Bands England, Arts Council England and also South Kirkby and Moorthorpe Town Council for making this possible."

The course will end with a concert on the Sunday afternoon where each conductor will present and conduct a piece of their own choosing.

10 places

This year there are spaces for 10 students from all age groups and abilities, with additional features built into the course to explore different aspects of the conductor's art and job.

For further details and enquiries please contact Anja Abma at: anja.abma@gmail.com