The final of the prestigious NABBC Brass Band Conductor of The Year 2008 Competition, sponsored by Virtuosi, will take place on Saturday, 21st June, in the Main Hall of Unity College, Northampton.

Promising conductors

Six promising conductors have been chosen to take part based on the results of heats held around the country during March and April.

The final starts at 1.30pm with an afternoon session that will see each candidate rehearsing the Virtuosi GUS Band on a major brass band work4BR

Major works

The final starts at 1.30pm with an afternoon session that will see each candidate rehearsing the Virtuosi GUS Band on a major brass band work.

There are three works from the best of the brass band repertoire; each will be conducted by two of the candidates. During the tea break, the adjudicators will interview the candidates.

The evening session will commence at 6.30pm when, following a short sight reading test, the candidates will conduct the band in a concert performance of the work that they rehearsed during the afternoon.

Results

Following the completion of the competition the Virtuosi GUS Band, under its conductor John Berryman, will give a short concert prior the announcement of the results.

Virtuosi

The NABBC is grateful to Virtuosi, the sponsor of the event. Virtuosi Managing Director, Shawn Pagington, told 4BR: "As part of our continual support and sponsorship of musicians, organisations and events, Virtuosi are pleased to be sponsors of the NABBC Brass Band Conductor of the Year 2008 Competition."

Thanks

The NABBC also wishes to thank John Berryman and the Virtuosi GUS Band for their great contribution to the event.

There are three prizes — £1,000, £500 and £200. The event is open to the public. Tickets are priced at £5 and will be available at the door.