Brass Band Day Hits the Right Note
Lincolnshire’s First Brass Band Showcase Unites Musicians of All Ages
On a day filled with music, camaraderie and inspiration, Lincolnshire Music Education Hub proudly hosted the county’s first-ever Brass Band Showcase — a groundbreaking event that brought together 70 brass and percussion players of all ages and abilities from across Lincolnshire and surrounding areas.
Players from 13 different bands, representing communities from the length and breadth of Lincolnshire, joined forces for a unique day of shared music-making. This fully inclusive event provided a rare and valuable opportunity for seasoned band members and young learners to play side by side — with the youngest musician being just eight years old.
The musical baton was expertly taken up by Flying Officer Michael Howley, Director of Music for the Band of the Royal Air Force Regiment, whose vibrant leadership guided participants through an ambitious and varied programme. Mentorship was further strengthened by the invaluable support of Army Reservist Musicians, offering both inspiration and technical guidance throughout the day.
The repertoire spanned a wide musical landscape — from traditional marches and hymn tunes to modern brass band works. A highlight was the ensemble’s performance of the first movement of Christopher Bond’s “The Lost Village of Imber”, a stunning and evocative original composition for brass band. In a generous gesture, Christopher kindly donated a copy of his score for use at the event.
Rehearsals were divided between full band sessions and sectionals, allowing musicians to refine their skills while fostering a strong sense of ensemble. For beginner players, there was a dedicated rehearsal space, where they prepared two specially chosen works, generously donated by Mode For…: Simon Kerwin’s “Redotsky March” and “Beethoven’s Ditty” along with Alan Fernie’s arrangement of “You’re Gonna Miss Me When I’m Gone.”
The culmination of the day was a showcase concert in which the beginner band opened with their spirited set before joining the massed ensemble for a triumphant conclusion. The combined sound of players young and old, amateur and experienced, was a stirring testament to the unifying power of music.
The event was generously supported by PBone Music, whose sponsorship provided lunch for all participants — a gesture that ensured the day remained accessible and inclusive. Representatives from both the North East Midlands Brass Band Association and Brass Bands England were also in attendance, taking the opportunity to connect with local bands and offer long-term support for their development.
One musician captured the spirit of the day perfectly, saying “Bringing the language of Music to life by all people of all ages, a wonderful sound and passion to keep going.”
Plans are already underway for future events, with Lincolnshire Music Education Hub keen to build on the momentum and nurture a growing enthusiasm for brass banding across the county.
Players of all ages working side by side during full band rehearsal at Lincolnshire’s first Brass Band Showcase — a powerful reminder of the intergenerational nature of brass banding.
The youngest player of the day — William (Baritone), just 8 years old — from Banovallum Brass Training Band showing that it’s never too early to be part of something big in the brass band world.
