Wider themes of reuse, repackaging and respect are explored with mature advocacy by a passionate National Youth Band of Great Britain.

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle
Guest Conductor: Lt Col Lauren Petritz-Watts
Assistant Conductor: Tommy Tynan
Soloist: Ross Knight
The Forum, Bath
Saturday 8th August 2026

4BR Verdict: 4.5/5 stars

Classical music composers have long been pioneers of the recycling movement. From Bach to Wagner, motifs and even whole pieces have found a secondary life repurposed in new packaging.

Others too. Never mind Mike Batt and the 1970s green activist Wombles of Wimbledon – quite a few of the current banding world’s most respected figures make repeated ‘good use’ of the original themes of inspiration they find.

Multi-purpose

The ethos of this year’s NYBBGB course – Reduce, Reuse, Recycle therefore had a multi-purpose relevance for the 90 plus Gen Z musicians on stage – youngsters fully aware of the issues surrounding the global cost of consumption driven consumerism, especially through cheap high street fashion.

There was an understandable passion then that drove the world premiere of Simon Dobson’s MACHINE! – although one that spelt out its message with startling originality.

It’s thought-provoking musical imagery underpinned the explorations of the technological drive to sustainable reinvention – the metamorphosis of the huge chords of material fed by the composer into his steam-punk machine seeing it reduced to elemental threads of colour, beauty and texture ready to be reinvented with new optimistic purpose.

This was achieved thanks to Lt Col Lauren Petritz-Watts’ calm authority in drawing both technical composure and wide-ranging musicality from the players – something that was already evident from the opening Ad Astra that sparkled brightly even in a rather boomy concert hall.

Mature appreciation

So too the mature appreciation displayed (especially the main solo lines) with Martyn Brabbins’ In Memoriam: E.H. – an emotive cameo tribute to his friend and inspiration, Elgar Howarth.

Here the reused motifs had a telling depth of meaning; the opening figure Howarth’s own, first heard in his early work Mosaic as well as on his memorial tribute to Rudolph Kempe.

A nod of appreciation to Harrison Birtwistle saw the music grow from hymnal eloquence to quirky inquisitiveness before settling with an imposing Zarathustra climax.

Superb artistry

A fine communal understanding was also shown in accompanying the Vaughan Williams Tuba Concerto,  played with superb artistry by soloist Ross Knight. It was a vibrant account that belied its age, its originality still fresh and engaging.

He later returned for a fleetfooted Quicksilver and a stunning piece of virtuosity in his solo encore Fnugg that would have been impossible to replicate even by the cleverest far east fashion brands.

Makeover finale

Contrasts of solo expression and ensemble exuberance were drawn by Assistant Conductor Tommy Tynan’s shaping of Liz Lane’s Serenata and Ashley Marston’s Echoes of Youth, before Lt Col Lauren Petritz-Watts tested ambition and stamina with Johan De Meij’s imposing Extreme Make-over.

True to the course theme, the reduced themes (from Tchaikovsky’s String Quartet No.1), reused motifs (everything from his Fourth and Sixth symphonies to 1812 Overture) and recycled effects (water-tuned bottle flutes) made for the most appropriate of finales – packed with solo and collective endeavour in its repackaging from opening simple beauty to overwrought bombast to close.

The encore of Philip Wilby’s thoughtful modification of The Day Thou Gavest was a most fitting way to end.

Iwan Fox
4barsrest

Full review available here: https://www.4barsrest.com/reviews/concerts/con926.asp

Jake Bartlett has been named the winner of The National Youth Brass Band of Great Britain’s prestigious Harry Mortimer Award 2026 following an exceptional final held during the Youth Band’s summer course at Taunton School.

The annual competition represents the culmination of The NYBBGB’s long-standing tradition of celebrating outstanding individual musical achievement. After qualifying through the Katie Ogden Solo Competition during the Band’s Easter course earlier this year, seven exceptional finalists performed before the full Youth Band and adjudicators Lieutenant Colonel Lauren Petritz-Watts (Course Guest Conductor) and Tommy Tynan (Course Assistant Conductor).

The finalists were Nayan (cornet), Mae (tenor horn), Matthew (euphonium), Nicky (trombone), Jake (Eb bass), Alec (percussion) and Cerys (voice – non-brass section). Each delivered a performance of remarkable musicality, technical brilliance and artistry, accompanied by Martyn Parkes, whose outstanding pianistic support has become a valued part of the competition.

Following the performances, the judges praised the exceptional standard across the competition.

Lt Col Lauren Petritz-Watts said: “The quality of musicianship we heard today was truly outstanding. Every finalist demonstrated an incredible level of preparation, musical maturity and commitment, making this a very difficult competition to judge. The future of brass music is in very safe hands.”

Tommy Tynan added: “Having been a member of The NYBBGB myself, I know what it means to perform in this competition. Every finalist should be immensely proud of what they achieved today. The standard was exceptional and it was inspiring to hear so many outstanding young musicians performing with such confidence and artistry.”

Jake impressed the judges with a commanding performance of Philip Sparke’s Tuba Concerto, earning him the Harry Mortimer Award 2026. As part of his prize, Jake will return next summer as Guest Soloist with The NYBBGB Children’s Band during the 2027 summer course and concert, providing a wonderful platform to showcase his musicianship to audiences and inspire the next generation of young brass players.

The Harry Mortimer Award is one of several honours presented by The NYBBGB to recognise excellence across the organisation, celebrating musical achievement, leadership, service and personal development. Alongside the Katie Ogden Solo Competition, it represents the highest level of individual musical excellence within the Band and has become one of the most sought-after accolades for young brass musicians.

The NYBBGB extends its sincere congratulations to Jake and to all finalists for performances of the highest calibre. The Band also thanks Denis Wick Products for its generous sponsorship of both the Katie Ogden Solo Competition and the Harry Mortimer Award, supporting these prestigious competitions for the next three years and helping to nurture the future of brass banding.

The National Youth Brass Band of Great Britain Summer Course 2026 is now underway, bringing together more than 90 of the country’s most talented young brass and percussion musicians for a week of intensive rehearsals, musical development and inspiration.

Hosted at Taunton School, this year’s residential course gives members of The NYBBGB Youth Band the opportunity to work with an exceptional team of tutors, learning from some of the finest musicians and educators in the profession. The week is led by Guest Conductor Lieutenant Colonel Lauren Petritz-Watts, Principal Director of Music (Army), alongside Assistant Conductor Tommy Tynan, winner of The NYBBGB Young Conductors’ Competition 2026.

One of the first milestones of the week has been the appointment of the Band’s Principal Players, recognising those who have demonstrated outstanding musicianship, leadership and commitment.

Congratulations to our Principal Players for summer 2026:

Principal Cornet: Darcie
Principal Soprano Cornet: Tom
Principal Flugel Horn: Noah
Principal Horn: Mae
Principal Euphonium: Rosa
Principal Baritone: Matt
Principal Trombone: James
Principal Eb Bass: James
Principal Bb Bass: Jake
Principal Percussion: Alec

These appointments recognise not only outstanding musical ability, but also the dedication, leadership and commitment each of these players brings to The NYBBGB. Congratulations also go to every member of the Youth Band. The exceptional depth of talent across the entire ensemble made these appointments especially competitive and reflects the remarkable standard of musicianship upheld by all of our young performers. Every member of the band has an important role to play, and we look forward to seeing their musical journey unfold throughout the week.

The week will culminate in The NYBBGB Summer Concert 2026 at The Forum, Bath on Saturday 8 August. Conducted by Lieutenant Colonel Lauren Petritz-Watts and Tommy Tynan, the concert features internationally renowned tuba soloist Ross Knight and an exciting programme inspired by the theme Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, including two world premières by celebrated British composer Simon Dobson and The NYBBGB’s President, internationally renowned conductor Martyn Brabbins.

Tickets are still available here and, as with all NYBBGB concerts and events, under 18s go FREE, making it a fantastic opportunity for families and music lovers alike to experience one of the UK’s leading youth music organisations in concert.

We look forward to sharing more highlights from the Summer Course throughout the week as our musicians prepare for Saturday’s performance. Find out more via The NYBBGB’s social media feeds.

Donald Trump brings out the very best of what the National Children’s Band is all about under the direction of Katrina Marzella-Wheeler.

Disruption: The Sounds of Change
Conductors: Katrina Marzella-Wheeler
Soloist: Angus Ritchie
Taunton Brewhouse, Taunton
Friday 31st July 2026

4BR Verdict: 4.5/5 stars

Although Donald Trump brazenly boasts of being the mastermind behind everything from peace deals in the Middle East to the rescinding of World Cup red cards, it seems he was the inspiration behind the success of this year’s National Youth Brass Band of Great Britain’s Children’s Band course.

The tango-tanned political cement mixer of destructive churn proved to be just that, thanks to an early conversation between NYBBGB CEO Mark Bromley and conductor Katrina Marzella-Wheeler about the musical themes that were to underpin their approach to Disruption: The Sounds of Change.

Clear fusion

Displayed through music making that expressed its uplifting explorations in full, it was led with a clear fusion of communication and encouragement by Katrina Marzella-Wheeler.

The MD asked demanding questions of her young players – ones answered with mature confidence from the opening brio of Frederick Schelderup’s Ultimo to the colourful complexities of the sashaying rhythmic pulse of Errollyn Wallen’s Gold Saturday to close.

It made for engaging listening, added to by 19-year-old Angus Ritchie, winner of the 2025 Harry Mortimer Award on the senior NYBBGB Course. His cultured renditions of Michelangelo by Sigvart Dagsland and Variations by Andrew Lloyd Webber were also displays of positive inspiration for the next generation accompanying him on stage.

Responses

Their own responses, both enthusiastic as well as excellent came on a confident Cortege from Rimsky-Korsakov’s Mlada set against the tender warmth and tonal balance of Amazing Grace.  The witty humour of Alan Fernie’s Rain!’ was only unsuccessful in that it didn’t bring with it a much needed quick downpour on a scorching afternoon.

The Journal of Phileas Fogg,  Peter Graham’s clever Victorian Eurostar break to Paris, Moscow, Vienna and Madrid, before heading back to the Reform Club in London for Sunday tea, was a post-Brexit treat (even the Russians were friendly), packed with character and colour, super little solo cameos and ensemble contributions.

Serious message

That was also a feature of a second half that opened with the atmospheric balance of brass and voice in Liz Lane’s The Awakening and the funky rhythms of Lucy Pankhurst’s March: IRL that hit a spot-on groove.

The serious message that underpinned Tim Minchin’s darkly joyful ‘song of resistance’ in Revolting Children from the musical Matilda was not lost on those who sang or listened, nor was the still beauty of Evelyn Glennie’s A Little Prayer. 

Errollyn’s Wallen’s multi-cultural celebration of endeavour and excellence brought a fine concert to an appropriate medal winning climax.

Iwan Fox
4barsrest
with thanks to Dr Robert Childs

Full review available here: https://www.4barsrest.com/reviews/concerts/con899.asp

The NYBBGB Children’s Band Summer Course 2026 is officially underway, with 56 of the UK’s most talented brass and percussion musicians aged 8–13 gathering at Taunton School for an inspiring week of music-making ahead of this Friday’s Summer Concert at Taunton Brewhouse.

The residential course began on Sunday 26th July with seating auditions, giving every young musician the opportunity to perform for the Band’s expert tutors. Following the auditions, this year’s Principal Players were announced:

• Principal Cornet: Elliott
• Principal Soprano Cornet: Lucas
• Principal Flugel Horn: Izzy
• Principal Tenor Horn: Daniel
• Principal Baritone: Neythen
• Principal Euphonium: Eliza
• Principal Trombone: Ben
• Principal Bass Trombone: Edward
• Principal Tuba: Martha
• Principal Percussion: Thomas

Being selected as a Principal is a tremendous achievement and reflects the dedication, commitment and musical excellence each of these outstanding young musicians has demonstrated. Congratulations to them all on this well-deserved recognition.

Throughout the week, the Children’s Band will work with guest conductor Katrina Marzella-Wheeler and The NYBBGB’s distinguished team of tutors, preparing an imaginative programme entitled Disruption: The Sounds of Change. Audiences can also look forward to performances by guest soloist Angus Ritchie, winner of the 2025 Harry Mortimer Award, who returns to The NYBBGB to perform with the Children’s Band following his success in last year’s competition.

Everyone at The NYBBGB wishes every member of the Children’s Band a rewarding and memorable week. Alongside developing their musical skills, the course offers opportunities to make new friends, learn from some of the UK’s leading brass musicians and create memories that will last a lifetime.

The course culminates in The NYBBGB Children’s Band Summer Concert at Taunton Brewhouse on Friday 31 July at 2.00pm.

The last few tickets are still available, and under 18s go FREE. Book your tickets now and come along to celebrate the remarkable achievements of these exceptional young musicians.

Find out more and book tickets for the concert here.

The Besson Horizons international music exchange 2026 has begun, bringing together young brass musicians from the National Youth Brass Band of Switzerland (NJBB) and the National Youth Brass Band of Great Britain (NYBBGB) and for a week of musical collaboration in Huttwil, Switzerland.

As part of the ongoing partnership between NYBBGB, NJBB and supported by leading brass manufacturer Besson Brass, NYBBGB musicians Stephanie Jonas (cornet) and Matthew Hurst (baritone) have joined the NJBB A Band this week for its summer course and concert performances.

Stephanie Jonas has been appointed Principal Cornet of the NJBB A Band for the course and concert — a fantastic recognition of her musicianship and leadership. Both Stephanie and Matthew have played an active role throughout the week’s rehearsals, working alongside more than 100 young brass and percussion musicians from across Switzerland.

Now in its 51st year, the NJBB summer course brings together talented young musicians from Switzerland’s four linguistic regions for an intensive week of rehearsals, coaching and performances. Following a successful week of music-making in Huttwil, both the NJBB A Band and B Band are preparing for their first concert of the summer, which takes place tomorrow.

The Besson Horizons exchange reflects the shared ambition of the NYBBGB and the NJBB to increase understanding and widen opportunity through music. The programme enables young musicians from both countries to experience different musical traditions, develop their performance skills and build lasting international friendships.

The exchange continues in August, when NJBB musicians Orianne Moren (flugel horn) and Tobias Rüedi (percussion) travel to the UK to join the NYBBGB summer course at Taunton School. They will also perform at the NYBBGB Summer Concert 2026 at The Forum, Bath, on Saturday 8 August.

Conducted by Guest Conductor Lieutenant Colonel Lauren Petritz-Watts, Principal Director of Music (Army), the concert will feature guest tuba soloist Ross Knight and celebrate the outstanding talent of young brass musicians from across Europe.

Tickets for The NYBBGB Summer Concert in Bath are on sale now at www.nybbgb.org.uk/whats-on.

The NYBBGB would like to thank Besson Brass for its continued support of this valuable international exchange programme and its commitment to inspiring the next generation of brass musicians.

The National Youth Brass Band of Great Britain (NYBBGB) has today launched its fifth annual Ambassador Ensemble Schools Tour, bringing live music, interactive performances and instrument demonstrations to primary schools across the South West of England.

Running from 6–10 July 2026, the tour will visit 15 schools across Devon, Somerset, Bath and South Gloucestershire, with more than 4,000 primary school pupils expected to experience performances delivered by the NYBBGB Ambassador Ensemble.

The 2026 Ambassador Ensemble features 12 of the UK’s most talented young brass and percussion musicians: Luke, Connor, Lucy, Macey, Gareth, Sam, Charles, Carys, Callum, Alexa, Rosa and Isaac.

Each school will enjoy a lively 45–60-minute interactive concert featuring music ranging from pop favourites to classical works, alongside instrument demonstrations and opportunities for pupils to learn more about brass and percussion playing. All performances are delivered free of charge as part of The NYBBGB’s charitable mission to inspire the next generation of musicians.

Mark Bromley, CEO of The National Youth Brass Band of Great Britain, said: “The NYBBGB Ambassador Ensemble Schools Tour embodies our mission to make high-quality music accessible to all young people. We are delighted to bring the tour to the South West this year and look forward to inspiring thousands of children through the power of live music.”

The Schools Tour has become one of The NYBBGB’s flagship outreach initiatives, with previous tours receiving overwhelmingly positive feedback from schools, music services and pupils alike.

Following last year’s tour in Bradford, Carol Dewhurst OBE, CEO of Bradford Diocesan Academies Trust (BDAT), said: “It was an honour to welcome The NYBBGB Ambassador Ensemble into our schools. This partnership offered our pupils a unique opportunity to experience live music, often for the first time, and to explore the possibilities of learning a brass or percussion instrument.”

Katie Savage, Headteacher of Baildon CE Primary School, added: “It has been an absolute pleasure to organise The NYBBGB’s Ambassador Ensemble tour of our BDAT primaries. Music is at the heart of school life here at Baildon CE Primary School and we were delighted to welcome the ensemble to our school.”

Schools that have participated in previous tours have also praised the lasting impact of the visits, with comments including:

• “The positive feedback keeps coming – they really have made a lasting impression!”
• “It was fantastic, they are a very talented bunch of young people! The children loved it!”
• “Watching those children who may never have had an experience like that just shine!”
• “I’ve had emails asking when they’re coming again!”

The 2026 Schools Tour is being delivered in partnership with Devon Music Education Hub, Somerset Music and West of England Music & Arts.

Regular updates, photographs and videos from the tour will be shared throughout the week on The NYBBGB’s Facebook and Instagram channels.

The National Youth Brass Band of Great Britain has successfully completed its 2026 ‘Ready To Shine’ audition skills workshop tour, working with 66 young brass and percussion musicians during three free workshops held in London, Manchester and Birmingham during the May half-term holidays.

Designed for musicians aged 8 to 18, the workshops gave participants the opportunity to develop audition confidence, improve performance skills and gain valuable musical experience in a supportive and inspiring environment. The workshops took place in three prestigious venues across the country: St Martin-in-the-Fields in London, Chetham’s School of Music in Manchester and the University of Birmingham.

Led by Dr Robert Childs, the NYBBGB’s Director of Artistic Planning, alongside a team of highly experienced tutors, the workshops included audition preparation, scales and sight-reading sessions, ensemble playing, performance coaching and Q&A opportunities with NYBBGB staff and members.

The expert tutor team included Siobhan Edwards (Solo Horn, Black Dyke Band), Michael Dodd (former Principal Euphonium, Grimethorpe Colliery Band) and Sam Milton (Principal Percussion, Brighouse & Rastrick Brass Band).

At the end of each workshop, participants performed to an audience of family and friends, showcasing the musical skills, confidence and ensemble work they had developed throughout the day. The final workshop at the University of Birmingham concluded with a performance in the university’s prestigious Elgar Concert Hall.

Feedback from participants and families across all three workshops was overwhelmingly positive, with the majority of the young musicians reporting increased musical confidence, improved audition skills and a greater understanding of what it is like to be part of The NYBBGB. Participants particularly praised the welcoming atmosphere, supportive tutors and opportunities to perform and play as an ensemble.

Participants described the workshops as “fun”, “brilliant” and “AMAZING”, while one attendee commented: “It was so cool to play in a band and get a taste of what NYBBGB is like”. Another participant simply wrote: “Do it all over the world!”.

The workshops provided practical support for young musicians preparing for auditions and music examinations, with scales work, performance skills and specialist brass techniques among the most highly praised aspects of the programme.

Dr Robert Childs said: “It has been a genuine privilege to work with so many talented young musicians this week. The enthusiasm, commitment and positivity shown by every participant has been outstanding. These workshops are about far more than auditions — they are about helping young people grow in confidence, enjoy making music together and realise their musical potential.”

Mark Bromley, CEO of The NYBBGB, added: “The success of this year’s ‘Ready To Shine’ workshops demonstrates the important role The NYBBGB plays as one of the UK’s leading youth music charities. We are passionate about creating accessible, high-quality opportunities for young brass and percussion players, regardless of background or experience. Seeing 66 young musicians engage so enthusiastically across the three workshops has been incredibly encouraging.”

The ‘Ready To Shine’ workshops form part of NYBBGB’s wider commitment to nurturing and inspiring the next generation of brass and percussion musicians across the UK.

The National Youth Brass Band of Great Britain will present its Easter Concert 2026 to a global audience as a YouTube Premiere at 7.30pm on Friday 22nd May 2026.

Watch the full concert for free on our YouTube channel here.

Titled ‘New Horizons’, the concert was performed on 11 April 2026 at The Garden Rooms at Tennants in Leyburn by 90 of the UK’s most talented brass and percussion players aged 13 to 18, brought together through the National Youth Brass Band of Great Britain. Under the direction of Guest Conductor Professor Nicholas Childs, and featuring Guest Soloist Mike Cavanagh, the programme embodied its central theme: a journey of discovery, renewal and musical exploration, reflecting both the expanding possibilities of the brass band tradition and the creative development of its young performers.

A major highlight of the evening was the world première of ‘Victoria Wood: A Laugh Less Ordinary’ by Andrea Price, commissioned by The Victoria Wood Foundation. The work marked the 10-year anniversary of the death of the late, great Victoria Wood, and paid tribute to her remarkable talent, music and body of work through a suite that blends humour, warmth and poignancy.

The concert’s wider programme reflected the same spirit of exploration. It opened with Paul Lovatt-Cooper’s ‘Horizons’, a bold and energetic statement that set the tone for an evening of musical discovery. Peter Graham’s ‘Tide, Torque and Turbulence: Concerto for Baritone’, performed by Mike Cavanagh, provided a lyrical and expressive centrepiece, paying tribute to pioneering women through three contrasting movements of narrative depth and technical brilliance. Bruce Broughton’s ‘Heroes’ continued the theme of human achievement, inspired by the Apollo 11 moon landing and combining rhythmic drive with expansive cinematic writing.

Further highlights included Fredrick Schjelderup’s ‘Fantasy of Joy’, an inventive reworking of Beethoven’s ‘Ode to Joy’, and Peter Graham’s ‘Mill Town Revival’, which brought traditional spirituals into a fresh, vibrant brass band context. Solo features from Mike Cavanagh in Thomas Doss’s ‘Pulse’ and Gounod’s ‘Ave Maria’ added moments of contrast, showcasing both rhythmic intensity and lyrical sensitivity. The concert concluded with Edward Gregson’s ‘An Age of Kings’, a large-scale, dramatic work that brought together historical and musical themes in a powerful finale.

‘New Horizons’ ultimately captured the spirit of forward-looking artistry, and the upcoming premiere offers audiences the chance to experience this landmark performance in full.

Find out more & download the concert programme here.

The National Youth Brass Band of Great Britain is inviting applications for a number of exciting voluntary opportunities to support the future development of one of the UK’s leading youth music organisations.

The Band is currently seeking to appoint three new Trustees, alongside a Volunteer Librarian, as part of its continued commitment to strengthening governance, preserving its musical heritage and supporting talented young brass and percussion musicians from across the UK.

Trustee Opportunities

The NYBBGB is looking to appoint Trustees with expertise in one or more of the following areas:

• Archive & Heritage Management
• Safeguarding / Health & Safety
• Equity, Diversity & Inclusion (ED&I)

The Trustees will play a key role in supporting the strategic direction and long-term sustainability of the organisation, helping ensure that young musicians continue to benefit from world-class musical opportunities, outstanding pastoral support and financial assistance through the Band’s bursary programme.

Previous trustee experience is not essential. The Band welcomes applications from individuals who can bring relevant professional expertise, fresh perspectives and a passion for supporting young people through music.

Volunteer Librarian Opportunity

The NYBBGB is also seeking a Volunteer Librarian to help manage and maintain the organisation’s extensive music library and archive.

Working closely with the artistic and operations teams, the Librarian will support the preparation of music for courses, rehearsals and concerts, while also helping preserve an important part of British brass band heritage. The NYBBGB archive dates back to 1952, when the Band was formed, and reflects more than seven decades of musical excellence and achievement.

This role would particularly suit someone with strong organisational skills, attention to detail and an enthusiasm for brass band music and music education. Previous experience as a music librarian is welcomed but not essential.

Join The NYBBGB Family

These voluntary roles offer a fantastic opportunity to contribute to a nationally recognised arts charity while supporting the musical and personal development of talented young musicians from across the UK. Reasonable expenses are reimbursed and much of the work can be undertaken flexibly and remotely.

Apply Now

🔗 Click here to find out more about and apply for our Trustee opportunities.

🔗 Click here to find out more about and apply for our Volunteer Librarian opportunity.

Applications for both roles close at 11.30pm on 30 May 2026.

More Information

To find out more about The NYBBGB and its work please click here.

You can also discover more about the organisation by watching the following short films:

🎬 https://youtu.be/T1PcnWz7qzw

🎬 https://youtu.be/FdwY4ezyEgA

The National Youth Brass Band of Great Britain is deeply saddened to share the news of the passing of John Gillam, a devoted servant of the organisation whose influence has shaped generations of young musicians and helped define the Band as it is today. John is survived by his wife Iglika, son George and daughter Florence. All of our thoughts are with John’s family at this very difficult time.

John’s journey with The NYBBGB began in 1975, when he joined as a BBb Bass player on the Easter course under the direction of Eric Ball. He would go on to attend eight courses, laying the foundations for a lifelong relationship with the organisation that would span five decades.

Alongside his early experiences with The NYBBGB, John went on to forge an outstanding playing career at the very highest level of brass banding. From his early years at Hammonds Sauce Works Band, through 13 years with Brighouse & Rastrick Band and later with Black Dyke Mills Band, John was recognised as a musician of exceptional authority and presence. He also performed with a number of leading ensembles including Flowers Band, and appeared as a guest with Foden’s, Fairey’s and Grimethorpe Colliery bands.

Reflecting on first meeting John as a fellow member of The NYBBGB, long-time friend, colleague and NYBBGB trustee Ewan Easton recalls: “I just remember being in awe of him – this giant of a man with an immense, powerful sound, yet such a deftness in how he used it. He made you feel safe. He was powerful and straight-talking, but everything he did came from a place of care and authority.”

That combination of strength, musicality and humanity became a defining feature of John’s contribution to The NYBBGB. Returning later as a Bass Tutor, he inspired countless young players, before moving into governance as a Council Member and, in January 2000, becoming Chairman – a role he held for 11 years.

John was once again appointed Chair of the newly formed Trustee Committee in 2020 and played a central role in revising The NYBBGB’s vision and strategy during a pivotal period of change, including the organisation’s transition to a Charitable Incorporated Organisation. He continued in this role with distinction, providing steady leadership and clear direction as the organisation developed and grew in ambition. His tenure was due to conclude in September 2026, and he had been delighted to support the appointment of Sue Hughes as his successor.

Ewan Easton reflects on John’s leadership: “He brought a sense of professionalism and direction, but always by bringing people with him. He had a remarkable ability to listen, to draw on the expertise of others, and to create a framework where the organisation could grow with confidence.”

John’s musical roots ran deep. Beginning as a chorister at Bradford Cathedral, he developed a profound sense of musicality that would underpin both his playing and his approach to leadership. His colleagues remember not only the power of his sound, but his resilience and composure.

Ewan recalls a defining moment: “I remember a performance in the European Championships at the Royal Albert Hall where John split a note in a major solo – the first time I’d ever heard it happen. But what stayed with me was what came next. The very next phrase was perfection. That was John – resilient, focused, never defined by a setback.”

Beyond his musical and professional achievements, it was John’s character that left the deepest impression. He combined strength with kindness, authority with humility and high standards with unwavering encouragement. “He had this ability to come right down to the level of a young player and bring out their very best,” Ewan reflects. “That power was always there, but so was the gentleness. That was John.”

In his professional life, John was equally accomplished, serving as a Global Logistics and Supply Chain Executive and holding senior roles at board level within multinational and FTSE 100 companies. He brought that same clarity of thought, discipline and vision into his work with The NYBBGB.

Mark Bromley, CEO of The NYBBGB, said: “John Gillam gave outstanding service to The National Youth Brass Band of Great Britain. From the outset, his commitment, wisdom and deep care for the organisation were clear. In 2018, we worked together on a new vision for The NYBBGB, helping to shape a confident future. Since 2020, I had the privilege of serving as CEO, with John as Chair, during which time he provided calm leadership, wise judgement and unwavering support. I remember John with real affection from the last time we were together in person, representing The NYBBGB at Windsor Castle in April 2025 for a reception with His Majesty The King – such was the occasion, John and I were the last two to leave! John leaves a lasting legacy and he will be greatly missed.”

John’s legacy within The NYBBGB is not easily defined by a single achievement. Rather, it is found in the culture he helped nurture – one of excellence, opportunity, resilience and care.

As Ewan Easton puts it: “His legacy is a feeling – a direction of travel. He gave the Band strength, focus and momentum. His loyalty was unquestionable, and his friendship immeasurable.”

For those who knew him best, it is that friendship that will be felt most keenly. “John was my go-to,” Ewan reflects. “A lifelong friend, a lifelong inspirer – always moving forward, always leading.”

John Gillam’s contribution to The NYBBGB and to the wider brass band movement was immense. His influence will continue to be felt for many years to come through the countless musicians and colleagues he inspired.

John will be greatly missed and fondly remembered.

Funeral arrangements for John Gillam

John Gillam’s funeral will take place at 1pm on Tuesday 2nd June 2026 at Rawdon Crematorium, Leeds Road, Rawdon, Leeds, LS19 6JP. If attending, please use the main entrance off the A65 at LS18 5EW. A livestream link will be shared nearer the occasion for those unable to attend in person, and the recording will remain available for 28 days afterwards.

Rather than flowers, or for those unable to attend in person, John’s family has created two charitable donation pages in his memory:

There was nothing ordinary about the spirit of fun and fearlessness on display by the talented youngsters of The NYBBGB in Manchester.

New Horizons
Conductors: Nicholas Childs
Soloist: Mike Cavanagh
The Royal Northern College of Music, Manchester
Saturday 18th April 2026

4BR Verdict: 4.5/5 stars

The genius of Victoria Wood’s comedy was that despite the sharp edge of wit it never mocked its intended victims.

Instead, it celebrated the foibles of us all; from uncertainty to pomposity, binding love to unfulfilled desires. To her, people in their own way were simply funny. There was no need to be cruel in highlighting the differences.

Comedic spirit

Almost 10 years to the day following her death, that particular comedic spirit filled the RNCM with Victoria Wood: A Laugh Less Ordinary. 

Andrea Price’s work also affectionately celebrated difference in eschewing an obvious ‘greatest hits’ medley for a series of touchstone memories of Wood’s finest creations – from the gloriously gossipy Dinnerladies and the decrepit Mrs Overall from Acorn Antiques, to Brassed Up.

Life, love, friendship and loss were cleverly brought together – from her own self-doubts and shyness to the celebrated partnership with her comedy counterpoint, Julie Waters. It was a wonderful portrait (played joyful verve) of a ‘one-off’ star who left us all too early, but still able to put a smile on our face.

Elan

A celebration of equally pioneering female talent came with the superb performance of baritone soloist Mike Cavanagh in Martin Ellerby’s Turbulence, Tide and Torque concerto.

Aviator Harriet Quimby, life saver Grace Darling and racing driver Dorothy Levittt were brought to life with informed musical elan, later reinforced by the soloist in his command of incessant energy in Pulse by Thomas Doss and tender homage to Bramwell Tovey with Ave Maria by Gounod.

The upbeat sounds of Paul Lovatt-Cooper’s Horizons and A Fantasy of Joy opened each half, whilst Peter Graham’s Mill Town Revival was a timely reminder of 19th century musical pioneers who broke down more than simple entertainment barriers.

The major test-piece feature came with Bruce Broughton’s Heroes. The achievements of the Apollo moon landings of half a century ago are once again being echoed with current American space flight exploration, as the future generations of Space-X travellers performed with vibrant endeavour, featuring excellent solo leads and supportive ensemble ground crew from ignition to splashdown.

Musical maturity

Edward Gregson’s masterful An Age of Kings written almost 40 years ago, but still as evocative as if fresh off the pages of a parchment Plantagenet score, rounded off a fine concert from a band growing in its cyclical musical maturity.

Aided by harp, piano and fanfares of trumpets, Prof Nicholas Childs kept a tight tether on the Church and State opening with its pageantry as well as intrigue, whilst the interlude At the Welsh Court (featuring the plaintive voice of horn player Carys Morgan) offered tender intimacy before the bloody mayhem of battle and the triumph of a new King to be crowned.

The Lost Chord acted as the encore to a concert further endorsing the substance of The NYBBGB’s own pioneering spirit in celebrating differences.

Iwan Fox
4barsrest

Full review available here: https://www.4barsrest.com/reviews/concerts/con899.asp