NYBBGB Summer Course 2026 begins as Principal Players announced
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.
