Over the next two weeks, Besses o'th' Barn are giving young conductors the chance to conduct the famous old band in rehearsal.

The entry criteria are very simple: you need to be 35 or younger and be available to take the band in Whitefield, near Manchester, on any of the following dates: Thursday 9th October and Thursday 16th October.

First batch

The first batch of aspiring young conductors are being tried out tonight, 2nd October.

No previous conducting experience is necessary, although a solid understanding of brass band scoring will be advantageous.

We thought this would be a good way not only of keeping the band on their toes, but also opening Besses up to a new generation of brass bandersBesses o' th' Barn

New generation

Speaking about this venture, Chair of the band Matthew Bailey told 4BR: "Following on from the recent launch of our Community Programme, we found that our MD was unavailable for three Thursday rehearsals.

We thought this would be a good way not only of keeping the band on their toes, but also opening Besses up to a new generation of brass banders. I'm hoping in the next three weeks to see some excellent young talent in front of the band."

Lucky people

The three lucky people will be selected at random, and whichever conductor the band decides has the most potential will be invited to conduct onstage with Besses in the near future.

All you have to do is contact Matthew on: matthewpbailey@hotmail.com