The latest issue of 'Mouthpiece', the official on-line publication of the Brass Band Association of New Zealand has just been published with extensive reflections on the highly successful hosting of the National Championships in Wellington.

Landmarks

It saw a number of significant landmarks, chief amongst them the first ever Championship Section victory in its 102 year history for North Shore Brass conducted by Nigel Weeks (above).

Reflecting on the event in his foreword, BBANZ President John Sullivan, who is connected with the band said: "On a personal note, Wellington 2026 is a contest I will never forget.

Many of us have poured years into this band, and performing on stage with my two daughters and some of my closest friends was a powerful reminder of why brass banding is so special."

No one in the close-knit banding community in New Zealand would have begrudged him his little proud indulgence, especially as he went on to offer his congratulations to the other winners, both ensemble and individual which he said reflected "a huge amount of dedication behind the scenes."

Spotlights

The latest edition also noted the appointment of Aisha Leitner as the new Musical Director of the National Secondary Schools' Band, as well as shining a spotlight on the outstanding service of Errol Miller and the upcoming talent of 18 year old cornet player Dimitrios Koulianos.

There were also features on the ANZAC Week concert of Auckland City Brass, the landmark achievement of the Wellington Brass organisation's 'Buzzing Brass' Band which made a huge impression at the National Championships, and the work of the volunteers that made the National Championships such as success.

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