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The National Youth Brass Band of Great Britain seeks new composing talent

Written by The National Youth Brass Band of Great Britain on August 6, 2022

“A supply of good new music is critical to any ensemble so supporting contemporary composers, particularly young composers, is very important to us. We are looking for a piece that is innovative, reflects our commitment to inclusivity, and has broad brass band appeal.” Mark Bromley, CEO of The NYBBGB

Director of Artistic Planning Dr Robert Childs added “This initiative is very exciting and I’m sure there will be lots of wonderful entries. My advice to composers is simple – work to the time limit and carefully read the guidance on our website. Good luck to all the entrants”.

Six works will be selected from the entities by Dr. Robert Childs, Director of Artistic Planning to go into the final round in January 2023. Joining Dr. Childs on the judging panel will be Maestro Sarah Ioannides, the Youth Band’s Guest Conductor for summer 2023, and composer Dorothy Gates.

The winner of the competition will receive a £1,000 prize for their work, with the piece being performed by The NYBBGB under the baton of Sarah Ionnades next summer, together with an offer from Prima Vista Musikk to also publish the work. The runner up will receive £250.

Criteria for entry is outlined in the rules on our website, but it’s essential that participants are aged 30 or under on 1st January 2023, that the five-minute piece reflects our commitment to inclusivity, has mass brass band appeal and is technically complex enough for the Youth Band (comprising the finest young brass and percussion players in the country) to
perform.

More information and how to enter the competition can be found on the home page of our website.