Deirdre Waller-Box, Youth Development Manager, commented:
“Whether you’re a teacher, performer, composer or conductor; if you’re working in the brass band sector it’s likely you’ll be self employed. We know that the leap into freelance work can feel daunting, so this selection of resources is designed to support that transition and make sure that young people can see a future for them in the arts and culture sector.”
Alongside this package of resources, BBE has also launched a bespoke coaching offer for young people embarking on arts careers.Thanks to the support of Youth Music, we are able to offer five free coaching sessions to any 18-25 year olds in one of the following circumstances:
- Currently not in education or training (NEET)
- Facing rural isolation
- Facing economic deprivation
Find out more about our youth development work, and book your coaching session on the BBE website.
Access the resources
Any young person who is part of a member band can access a bank of resources in the Members Resources Library. Students can access free individual membership of BBE
Aged 18-25 and not currently a student or linked to a member band? Get in touch with our Youth Development Manager Deirdre Waller-Box for more information on [email protected].
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.
Join us
Becoming a BBE Member gives you access to expert support, exclusive free and discounted training, safeguarding services (to name but a few benefits).
Become a member today for as little as £30!