Brass Bands England has announced that the acclaimed composer and artist Martin Green will be the keynote speaker at its 2025 Brass Band Conference.
The Ivor Novello Award winner and broadcaster produced the critically acclaimed 'Split the Air' theatrical and brass band collaboration, as well as the two-part BBC Radio 3 series, 'Love, Spit and Valve Oil' — both of which brought a coruscating focus into the cultural heart of British brass banding.
He follows in the recent footsteps Edward Gregson, Gavin Higgins and Shri Sriram in being invited to give the high profile address to delegates and representatives at the event.
The Next Generation
Tickets for the event on Saturday 27th September at the historic Redhills Miners Hall in Durham are now available. The theme is 'The Next Generation,' with a focus on how the movement can put young people with future leadership in the spotlight.
The conference will bring together brass band innovators, leaders and future voices for a day of ideas, collaboration and creativity reflecting on the key issues and opportunities relevant to the future of brass banding.
The programme also includes exclusive behind-the-scenes insight from Flowers Band about their production process behind a Brass in Concert performance.
Youthful contributions and awards
There will also be contributions from ABRSM, AMP, and London Metropolitan Brass, as well as respected voices such as Daniel Hall and John Watts and fresh new voices making an impact, including Liv Appleton and Elise Hale.
The day will close with the presentations of the 2025 Brass Bands England Awards. Details of the shortlisted nominees, alongside the public vote for Band Project of the Year, can be found on the BBE website.
To vote: https://www.bbe.org.uk/awards
Importance
Speaking about the importance of the conference, BBE's Events Manager, Jessica Wilson, commented: "This event is where the future of brass banding comes into focus. Whether you're a player, conductor, teacher, composer, or organiser — this event is for you.
I'm especially proud that this year's conference has been co-created by young people within our movement. Huge thanks to BBE's Youth Voice Working Group, who shaped the programme, and to all those donating their time and expertise."
I hope the day inspires every band to think deeply about how we support the next generation and sparks practical ideas to ensure a thriving, sustainable futureJess Wilson, BBE
Inspires
Jess added: "I hope the day inspires every band to think deeply about how we support the next generation and sparks practical ideas to ensure a thriving, sustainable future.
With a free ticket available for every BBE member band, and travel bursaries open for application, there's no excuse not to be a part of the conversation!"
Tickets:
Tickets to The Brass Band Conference 2025 are now available to purchase via the BBE website.
Tickets: https://www.bbe.org.uk/civicrm/event/info/577
BBE members are eligible for one free place per organisation or individual membership by using the code CONFMEMBER (offer ends 25th July) and free places for those aged 23 and under.
Limited travel bursaries are available for application.
Further information
Full details can be found on The Brass Band Conference information page.
