The NYBBGB and The Victoria Wood Foundation Announce Major New Partnership for 2026

A new musical commission, bursary programme and celebration of Victoria Wood’s legacy is set for The National Youth Brass Band of Great Britain’s 2026 season.

The National Youth Brass Band of Great Britain (NYBBGB) and The Victoria Wood Foundation are delighted to announce an exciting new funding partnership for the 2026 season, marking a powerful fusion of musical excellence and charitable purpose.

As part of this collaboration, The Victoria Wood Foundation will fund a brand-new musical commission inspired by the much-loved songs and work of the late Victoria Wood. This vibrant new piece will be written by acclaimed composer Andrea Price and premièred at The NYBBGB Youth Band’s Easter concerts on Saturday 11th April 2026 at The Garden Rooms at Tennants, Leyburn, and on Saturday 18th April 2026 at The Royal Northern College of Music, Manchester. Both performances will be conducted by Professor Nicholas Childs, one of the UK’s most prominent brass band conductors.

In addition to the commission, the Foundation’s generous support will also provide bursaries for young musicians to attend NYBBGB courses in 2026, ensuring that financial barriers do not prevent talented children from participating. The funding will also enable the award of leadership bursaries to support mentors working with the Children’s Band.

This special partnership comes in the year that marks the 10th anniversary of Victoria Wood’s passing, offering a fitting tribute to her deep connection with brass band music. A trumpet player herself, Victoria’s affection for brass banding was evident in her songs, sketches and TV work, including ‘Dinnerladies’, ‘Victoria Wood as Seen on TV’ and her parody of the film ‘Brassed Off’ during her festive special ‘Victoria Wood with All the Trimmings’ in 2000. The Black Dyke Band, with whom Victoria had a close relationship, even appeared in the Christmas episode of ‘Dinnerladies’ in 1999, featuring Professor Nicholas Childs, Guest Conductor for The NYBBGB’s Easter 2026 course and concerts, and Dr Robert Childs, The NYBBGB’s Director of Artistic Planning.

Andrea Price’s new commission draws inspiration from Victoria Wood’s rich musical legacy and will explore the themes of friendship and human connection – both central elements of Victoria’s work. The composition will capture Victoria Wood’s distinctive wit, warmth and musicality, and will incorporate melodies from her celebrated songs, sketches and musicals. From playful childhood motifs to heartfelt lyrical solos, culminating in a powerful finale, the piece promises to be a joyful and emotional tribute.

Andrea Price commented: “It’s an enormous privilege to be entrusted with this commission. Victoria Wood’s music and humour were so full of heart and humanity, and I hope to honour that spirit in this new work. Writing for The NYBBGB is always inspiring – their energy, talent and commitment are second to none – and I’m thrilled to be creating something that celebrates such an iconic artist while supporting the next generation of young musicians.”

Louise Shaw, The NYBBGB ‘s Fundraising Manager commented: “We are incredibly honoured to be working with The Victoria Wood Foundation, who has supported The NYBBGB since 2024. Victoria’s legacy as a performer, musician and writer continues to inspire generations, and this project allows us to introduce her work to young musicians in a truly creative and meaningful way. This partnership also helps remove financial barriers for talented young players – a cause close to both our missions.”

Catherine Edis, The Victoria Wood Foundation Trust Administrator added: “When we attended The NYBBGB’s Summer Stage performance in 2024 at St Martin-in-the-Fields, we were struck by the talent, passion and mission of this extraordinary youth organisation. Victoria herself loved brass band music, and we are delighted to support projects that celebrate her legacy while empowering the next generation of musicians.”

More information about The NYBBGB Youth Band Easter 2026 Concerts can be found here.