The line-up for the 2026 Welsh Open Entertainment Championships has been confirmed by the event organisers.
The 28th running of the Welsh contesting season opener has once again attracted band from both sides of the River Severn, with half the 14-band field making their way across the M4 motorway to the Riverfront Theatre in Newport on Sunday 22nd February — including welcome debutants, Kidlington and Medway, whilst Lydbrook returns after a 15-year break.
Kick-off
It all kicks off at 11.00am when the first band will present their brand of brass band entertainment to see if they can claim the £1,000 first prize and lift the impressive Welsh Miners Challenge Cup.
The adjudicator this year is Dr Tom Davoren, no stranger to the event having led winning bands on four occasions. He flies in from the USA to enjoy a packed day — one that also comes with an invitation to the highest placed qualifying band to secure a place at the 2026 British Open Spring Festival.
The defending champion is Ebbw Valley Brass who will look to secure a fourth consecutive victory.
Tickets:
Tickets: £12.00 unreserved (incl booking fee)
https://newportlive.ticketsolve.com/ticketbooth/shows/1173672747
Competing bands:
Adjudicator: Dr Tom Davoren
Entertainment Adjudicator: Ryan Watkins
B.T.M (Jeff Hutcherson)
Brunel Brass (Daniel Hall)
City of Cardiff (M1) (Rob Westacott)
Ebbw Valley Brass (Matt Rowe)
Filton Concert Brass (Craig Williams)
Forest of Dean Brass (Martyn Patterson)
Goodwick Brass (Joshua Ruck)
Kidlington Concert (Jonathan Pippen)
Lydbrook (Lt Col David Barringer)
Medway (Alan Gifford)
Parc & Dare (Dewi Griffiths)
Pontardulais Town (Paul Jenkins)
Tylorstown (Andrew Jones)
Wantage (Chris King)
