BBC Radio 2 is again inviting young brass players to enter its prestigious Young Brass Soloist Competition.

If you are a brass player under the age of 21, of Grade 8 or equivalent standard and play regularly with a brass band, wind band, or orchestra then this is your chance to claim the title in 2009 and to be heard on the popular 'Listen To The Band programme' presented by Frank Renton.

Winner

The winner will get an invitation to perform as guest soloist with a top championship band and be invited onto the Networks flagship live music programme 'Friday Night Is Music Night'.

The first round will be judged by a panel of BBC experts alongside significant figures in the brass band and classical music world.

The 2009 winner will follow in the footsteps of the previous champions Katrina Marzella, Brenden Wheeler and Ben Thomson4BR

Brighouse and Black Dyke participate

The semi-finals take place before an invited audience on Sunday 8th February 2009 at the BBC Studios in Manchester, and the Final on Saturday 21st February 2009 at the Royal Northern College of Music in Manchester. Competitors will be accompanied by the Brighouse and Rastrick Band for the semi final and by Black Dyke Band in the final.

BBC is keen supporter

Lesley Douglas, Controller Radio 2, told 4BR: "Radio 2 has always been a keen supporter of new musical talent. There is obviously a thriving brass band music scene in this country and I am delighted that, through this competition, we’re able to showcase performances of such a high standard from young brass players and give listeners a chance to hear this new generation of musicians."

The competition can be heard in full on BBC Radio 2’s Listen to the Band programme which is presented by Frank Renton.

Closing date

The closing date according to the BBC Website is 1st December 2008

For further information and application forms, go to www.bbc.co.uk/radio2/events/brasssoloist2009/index.shtml or call the Radio 2 audience line on 08700 100 200