*
banner

Brass sounds fill the air at Youth Fest in Barnet

BBE's 'Brass Fest' event saw over 200 young players provide fantastic entertainment and great music making in Barnet.

Youth Fest
  The sign of the times...

Barnet in North London was recently filled with the sound of brass banding with the staging of Brass Bands England's second 'Youth Fest'.

Held at its popular 'artsdepot' cultural venue, the non-competitive event emphasised the importance of participation, collaboration, and the enjoyment of music-making.

It saw the audience treated to a vibrant programme of accessible repertoire — ideal for young performers and those just beginning their brass band journey.

Performances and workshops

In addition to the on-stage performances, bands also took part in interactive workshops run by BBE's Brass Foundations team, offering players the chance to explore new music and develop their ensemble skills in a fun, supportive environment.

Those taking part included: Gospel Oak Primary School (London); Haberdashers Elstree Prep Schools (Elstree); Camden Youth Brass (London); Harting CE Primary School (West Sussex); Barnet Education Arts Trust — Training Brass Band (London); Barnet Youth Brass Band (London) andSt Albans City Youth Band.

Incredible energy

Reflecting on the successful day, BBE's Chief Operating Officer, Sarah Baumann told 4BR: "The energy was incredible. To see so many young musicians on stage having fun and playing their hearts out: It's exactly what Youth Fest is all about."

Among the event's special guests was Councillor Danny Rich, the Worshipful Mayor of Barnet, who praised the commitment of the young musicians, saying that it had been "a great privilege"to be able to recognize the dedication and effort that was on show, and that it has been "an honour"to host the event.

The atmosphere was relaxed and encouraging, and it was wonderful to see so many brilliant young performers having fun making music togetherBarnet Youth Brass Band

Performance fun

Peter Yarde Martin, Musical Director of Barnet Youth Brass Band also expressed his delight in being able to take part, adding: "We had so much fun performing. Our musicians enjoyed learning pieces by ear in a street brass workshop, hearing other young bands play, and performing our own set of pieces in front of an enthusiastic audience!

The atmosphere was relaxed and encouraging, and it was wonderful to see so many brilliant young performers having fun making music together."

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    


wobplay

New additions to Wobplay releases

July 30 • A premiere release from the International Staff Band is joined by classic Cory, memories of the Masters and and Edward Gregson greatest hits.


NYBBS

Fun and friendship key ingredients to NYBBS success

July 29 • A fantastic week of music making in Perthshire was rounded off with a memorable triptych concert.


Red Admira

Red Admiral still open for late arrivals

July 29 • If you want to be part of the live-broadcast Red Admiral Music Academy Entertainment Contest then you still have time...


Edward Gregson

National study scores now available

July 29 • Study scores of Edward Gregson's 'Symphony in Two Movements' are now available for Studio Music.


Haverhill Silver Band - A Nightingale Sang... (an evening concert)

Saturday 2 August • Foakes Hall, Dunmow CM6 1DG


The Lindley Band - Parp and a Pint

Wednesday 6 August • 14a Holly Bank Road. Lindley. Huddersfield . West Yorkshire HD3 3 JE


Haverhill Silver Band - East Anglian Beer & Cider Festival

Sunday 24 August • St Edmundsbury Cathedral, Bury St Edmunds IP33 1QX


Haverhill Silver Band - Concert in Saffron Hall

Wednesday 27 August • Saffron Hall, Audley End Road, Saffron Walden, Essex CB11 4UH


Uckfield Concert Brass - Eastbourne Bandstand 1812 Concert

Wednesday 27 August • Eastbourne Bandstand, Lower Grand Parade, Eastbourne. BN21 3AD


Uckfield Concert Brass

July 30 • Principal, front & back row cornets + Eb bass player(s) wanted for our friendly & inclusive band. We rehearse every Tuesday evening at 8:00pm at The Alma Public House, Framfield Road, Uckfield TN22 5AJ, a relaxed, sociable venue. Warm welcome guaranteed!


Chinnor Silver

July 29 • Our COMMUNITY BAND is meeting again on Monday 4th and would love you to come along and join us for a relaxed blow.There is no impact on your own band just an extra fun blow but with cake and coffeeThe rehearsal is at 11am in our organisations own bandroom


Alder Valley Brass

July 28 • We are looking for BBb bass and soprano cornet players to join our ambitious, busy and sociable 2nd section band (national finalists 2023) with a good blend of concerts, engagements and contests. Rehearsals Mondays and Thursdays 8-10pm in Farnham, Surrey


Michael Bennett

BSc, RNCM (Perf)
Performer, Composer, Arranger, Teacher


               

 © 2025 4barsrest.com Ltd