Entry forms now available for Scottish Open and Challenge contests

Preparations for this year’s Scottish Festival of Brass are progressing apace. Entry forms are now available for bands wishing to participate in the Open (championship) and Challenge (sections 1-4) contests on Saturday 27 and Sunday 28 November respectively at the Perth Concert Hall.

While there is no specific Youth Festival event this year, it is hoped to organise a similar occasion at a later date. However, young people will still be actively involved over the SFoB weekend as groups and available bands will be invited to perform and be included in workshops and masterclasses grant-funded by Creative Scotland.

Furthermore, it is planned to provide free tickets to the contests for youth players.

Steven Mead and Paul Holland will be adjudicating both the Open and the Challenge competitions.

Scottish Open entry forms are available at https://www.sbba.org.uk/events?event=166 and the Band Supplies Challenge entry forms can be downloaded at https://www.sbba.org.uk/events?event=164

SBBA president Carrie Boax commented: “We are delighted to now be making plans for live music making at this year’s Scottish Festival of Brass, especially after we had to cancel the event last year because of the Coronavirus pandemic.

“The reduction of the SFoB to two days instead of three is to allow us to deliver a financially viable event, being mindful of the position bands will find themselves in come November.”

She added: “Although our sponsorship of the Scottish Open has been substantially reduced this year – resulting in less prize money being on offer – I’m sure a greater motivation to participate in the event will be the opportunity to return to some form of normality, play live music and catch up with old friends.

“Once again, I am grateful to our band family for their continued support and understanding of our position as we aim to return to banding and host a successful event that all musicians, from the very young to more senior players, can enjoy.”