'Let's kick some brass' in Utrecht

The Netherlands is gearing up to host the 41st edition of the European Championships from 28 April - 6 May, when 17 top-flight bands compete across the Championship and Challenge sections, as well as youth and solo contenders in what promises to be a riveting edition of the festival. Nicola Bland looks at what’s on offer.

‘Come visit Utrecht between 28 April - 6 May and be dazzled by the intense and multi-dimensional sounds of Utrecht Brass, and the official programme for the European Brass Band Championships.’ So says ZIMIHC - the organising Company, which has built a wide range of indoor and alfresco concerts, lectures, conferences and workshops into the 41st edition.

The main action will take place in the Championship and Challenge sections, which this year see Austrian contender, Brass Band Fröschl Hall, debut in the Championship Section against current juggernaut and reigning champion, Eikanger-Bjørsvik Musikklag, Cory, current
British Open Champion Valaisia, home band
De Wâldsang (making its 20th appearance
at the EBBC), Fairey, Whitburn, Stavanger (qualified as the second Norwegian band), Hauts-de- France, 3BA, Willebroek and Concord.

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