The Brass Band Conductors' Association (BBCA) has announced the line-up of ten semi-finalists selected to take part in its premier Conducting Competition, sponsored by Yamaha.

It follows an audition selection process, with the following conductors now invited to take part in the event on Saturday 28th June at Halifax Minster, West Yorkshire.

They are Brecht Schepers; Sara Maganzini; Rita Arendz; Jan Mueller; Hannah Caraker; Edward Mylechreest; Gary Perrin; Si Nok Wong; Uilson Castro and Anthony Smith.

Public semi-final

The semi-final (starts 11.15am) will be open to the public and will see the contenders rehearse Hammonds Band on either 'In Memoriam RK' by Elgar Howarth, or 'Variations' by Thea Musgrave.

Rehearsals will be assessed by adjudicators Eduardo Portal and Katrina Marzella-Wheeler, who will be responsible for selecting the five conductors that will go through to the evening's Gala concert final where they will conduct Elland Silver Band (7.30pm).

High class entrants

Speaking about the event BBCA Chair, James Holt told 4BR: "It's fantastic that we've had such a high-class field of entrants from around the globe.

This is an excellent opportunity for conductors to work with outstanding bands and get feedback from professionals in their field, and I am sure it will be a great day for those involved."

James confirmed that the 2025 winner will be given the opportunity to work with Russell Gray and Foden's Band.

It's fantastic that we've had such a high-class field of entrants from around the globeJames Holt, BBCA

Watch:

Watch the semi-finalists in action: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nTMatubzNNs

Tickets for the Gala Concert final are available from the Halifax Minster website.