Since its inception in January 2021, in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, Brass Foundations has worked tirelessly to provide children across the country with access to a musical education. Working alongside band partners, Music Education Hubs and schools throughout England, the past five years has been focused on broadening the reach of the programme and delivering high-quality, engaging and innovative experiences to children and young people. Now, at the five year mark, BBE is adjusting the focus to ensure a programme that has a sustainable impact and lasting legacy on the brass map.
Sheila Allen, Brass Foundations’ Programme Manager, commented:
“We’ve worked with thousands of children each year, delivering workshops directly to schools and during key events throughout the banding calendar. That hard work in providing children with access to music won’t stop, but instead expand out to include those at the heart of it all: those who work and volunteer in their communities who support the future generations of brass banders, empowering them with leveled-up leadership skills, RSL certification, and resources.”
What's on offer?
- Brass Foundations: Leader Lab is a 1:1 coaching service specifically designed to help you identify practical ways to develop your musical direction skills when leading children and young people. You will be able to translate your enhanced practice directly into tangible, measurable progress for the players you lead. Over a minimum of two dedicated online sessions, you will work 1:1 with one of our expert mentors to improve your personal practice. £125 + VAT per session including recommended resources. The first five members to sign up can access a launch discount price of £95 + VAT for their first session. Book your first session on the BBE website.
- Brass Foundations: Future Leaders’ Programme is a year-long course focused on developing the talent of youth band leaders in the brass band sector. This course provides a unique training experience, with practical workshops, ongoingmentorship, peer networking and support to complete the RSL Level 3 Certificate in Supporting Music and Performing Arts Learning. Information for the 2026 programme will be available in April, with the programme commencing in September.
- Brass Foundations: Enable Resources is a selection of flashcard resources to help you build your go-to toolkit for making music learning engaging. All members get access to a free set of flashcards, with the option to add-on more from as little as £1.50 a set.
- Brass Foundations: Momentum Hub is a focused support programme for 18-25 year olds making their way in brass banding. From coaching to resources find out how BBE can support your journey.
- Brass Foundations: Network is a new Facebook Community for youth band leaders and brass band educators to network, skillshare and connect. This group isn’t exclusive to members, it’s for everyone! Join the Facebook Group.
Sarah Baumann, Programmes and Fundraising Director, commented:
“Working on the Brass Foundations programme since its inception has been a complete honour, and as we move onto the next phase of our activity it’s only right to recognise all the members of the team, past and present, who have been a part of this journey. Every one one of them has played a significant role in where we are today. Our next steps mark a significant point in the growth of BBE’s education programmes with a clear offer to support young people and those who support them.”
More to come
Members should expect further announcements in coming months regarding new initiatives and support from Brass Bands England to support youth work in their communities.
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