West Yorkshire bands prepare for Battle at the National Brass Band Championships

They will join 17 other top brass bands from across the country, all competing for the prestigious National Challenge Trophy and the coveted title of National Champion Band of Great Britain 2025.

This historic event, which began in 1900, is a highlight of the UK’s banding calendar and this year marks the eightieth anniversary of its residency at the legendary Royal Albert Hall. Each band will perform the same test piece — Edward Gregson’s Symphony in Two Movements.

The composer said"I’m honoured that the National Brass Band Championships have selected my Symphony in two movements as the set work for this year’s prestigious competition at the Royal Albert Hall. Although I’ve previously received commissions for this event, this time the panel chose a piece I originally composed in 2012 for two of the UK’s National Youth Bands—music that carries youthful energy, rhythmic vitality, and lyrical expressiveness. It’s a bold and contemporary choice, drawing on symphonic traditions from Beethoven to Stravinsky and Prokofiev, while also nodding to the English pastoral style of Vaughan Williams. Unlike more programmatic works previously featured, this score demands precision, detail, and stylistic versatility from both conductors and players—combining symphonic brass with the warmth of traditional brass band sound. Having 19 of the UK’s finest bands prepare this piece is a great privilege, and I look forward to hearing the results on the day’’

Judging is conducted under strict conditions, with three adjudicators sealed inside a soundproof box, able to hear but not see the performers, ensuring impartiality and integrity throughout the competition. A special award will also be given for the Most Outstanding Player.

For supporters and players, the competition is a celebration of tradition, community, and musical excellence. Many competing bands boast rich histories within their local towns and villages, and their place at the Finals represents a deep source of pride for fans back home. Black Dyke band is the most successful band in the competition’s history with 24 titles.

Philip Morris, Managing Director of event organisers Kapitol Promotions said: ‘’ We are thrilled to return once again to London’s iconic Royal Albert Hall for our flagship event - a true celebration of brass banding at its finest. This year is of special significance as we mark the 80th anniversary of the first National Final held at the RAH in its current format. Audiences can look forward to outstanding performances of Edward Gregson’s Symphony in two movements - the composer’s own favourite work for brass band. Adding to the occasion, the Gala Concert will feature the current National Youth Champions of Great Britain, Youth Brass 2000, together with a host of exciting alumni as their special guests’’

For more information and to buy tickets for the event on Saturday 11th October, go to https://www.royalalberthall.com/tickets/events/2025/national-brass-band-championships