The first ever 'Brass Band Showcase' event was recently held in Lincolnshire which brought together players of all ages and abilities from across the county and beyond.

Organised and hosted by Lincolnshire Music Education Hub it marked a significant step in uniting the local brass banding community, including over 70 young learners and experienced players from 13 different bands.

Support

The event was generously supported by PBone Music, whose sponsorship provided lunch for all participants.

Representatives from the North East Midlands Brass Band Association and Brass Bands England were also in attendance to connect with local bands and offer long-term support for their development.

The day was led by Flying Officer Michael Howley, Director of Music of the Band of the Royal Air Force Regiment, supported by Army Reservist musicians and industry partners including Brass Bands England and the North East Midlands Brass Band Association.

Fully inclusive

A spokesperson told 4BR: "The fully inclusive event provided a valuable opportunity for players of all ages and abilities to play side by side — the youngest just 8 years of age.

Michael's vibrant leadership guided participants through an ambitious and varied programme, boosted by the invaluable mentoring support of the Army Reservist musicians."

The repertoire spanned traditional marches and hymn tunes to modern brass band works. A particular highlight was the performance of the first movement of Christopher Bond's 'The Lost Village of Imber'. In a generous gesture, Christopher kindly donated a copy of his score for use at the event.

The fully inclusive event provided a valuable opportunity for players of all ages and abilities to play side by side — the youngest just 8 years of agespokesperson

Support

Rehearsals were divided between full band sessions and sectionals, allowing the players time to refine their skills amid communal support.

For beginners there was also a dedicated rehearsal space where they worked on two specially chosen works, generously donated by Mode For..., with Simon Kerwin's 'Redotsky March' and 'Beethoven's Ditty' along with Alan Fernie's arrangement of 'You're Gonna Miss Me When I'm Gone'.

The day closed with a showcase concert in which the beginner band opened with their spirited set before joining the massed ensemble for a triumphant conclusion.

Sound and passion

The spokesperson added: "The combined sound of players young and old, amateur and experienced, was a stirring testament to the unifying power of music", whilst as one of the participants also said: "Bringing the language of Music to life by all people of all ages, a wonderful sound and passion to keep going."

4BR was informed that plans are underway for future events, with Lincolnshire Music Education Hub keen to build on the momentum and nurture a growing enthusiasm for brass banding across the county.