The NYBBGB launches Take A Seat scheme for 2026 following successful first year

The National Youth Brass Band of Great Britain (NYBBGB) is delighted to announce the return of its Take A Seat scheme for 2026, supporting the development of talented musicians.

Take A Seat offers supporters the opportunity to sponsor a seat in The NYBBGB Youth Band and play a direct role in supporting the next generation of brass and percussion musicians.

The scheme enables individuals, families, charitable trusts and businesses to make a meaningful contribution to the Band’s work, helping to fund bursaries, world-class tuition, guest conductors and soloists, new commissions and a range of artistic development opportunities for young musicians. Thanks to the generosity of donors, six seats in The NYBBGB Youth Band were supported in 2025.

Founded on a legacy of excellence, The NYBBGB has nurtured generations of outstanding brass musicians whose careers have shaped the international brass band and classical music worlds. Alumni include leading figures such as Maurice Murphy, Ian Bousfield and David Childs, whilst today’s members continue that tradition as they develop their musical skills at the highest level.

As a registered charity, The NYBBGB relies on the generosity of supporters to help sustain and develop its programmes for talented young musicians across Great Britain. The Take A Seat scheme offers an opportunity for donors to connect directly with the Band and the young people they are helping to support.

Supporters can sponsor seats across the Band at a range of levels, from £500 for 2nd and 3rd desk players through to £3,000 for the prestigious Principal Cornet seat. Donors are recognised in concert programmes and on The NYBBGB’s website, receive updates about the musicians’ experiences and are invited to attend rehearsals and performances throughout the year.

Mark Bromley, Chief Executive Officer of the NYBBGB, said: “The response to the launch of Take A Seat last year was fantastic. Seeing six seats supported through the scheme in its first year demonstrates the real impact that our donors can have on the musical journeys of the next generation. By sponsoring a seat, donors become part of the NYBBGB family and help us continue providing life-changing musical opportunities for talented young brass and percussion players.”

The NYBBGB is now inviting supporters to Take A Seat for the 2026 season and help build on the success of the scheme’s first year.

If you would like to find out more or participate in The NYBBGB Take a Seat scheme, please click here.

The deadline to support the Band in 2026 via the Take A Seat scheme is Friday 3rd April 2026.

To find out more about all ways that you can support The NYBBGB, please visit our Support page.