Bold as Brass is a free-entry entertainment contest for bands in the second section and under, held at the National Coal Mining Museum for England.
After holding its first event in 2022, the Bold as Brass contest will return again in 2025, offering an exciting day out for bands and supporters at the Museum’s Wakefield site. Bands in the second section and under are invited to participate in the contest, which will take on Saturday 7 June. The event is delivered in partnership with the National Coal Mining Museum (NCMM) and Brass Bands England (BBE), and is offered as an additional performance opportunity for BBE members.
What’s involved?
Competing bands will be asked to perform a march lasting up to six minutes (although this can be performed stationary if preferred and is not limited to a single piece), and a 20-minute entertainment performance (seats available). The event is designed to last a length of time that everyone can participate throughout and watch each other's performances whilst enjoying the atmosphere.
Performances will be adjudicated and there will also be a People’s Band award based on audience votes.
Trophies will be awarded to the best overall band and the best band in a range of further categories - please see the contest rules document below for full information and updated contest rules.
A non-competitive section will allow bands who just want to come and perform to do so, with the option to still be able to benefit from the adjudicator’s feedback but without being ranked.
Event date: Saturday 7 June, 2025
Venue address: Caphouse Colliery, New Rd, Overton, Wakefield WF4 4RH
For full details on the competition please see the Bold as Brass Contest rules
Why take part in Bold as Brass?
The aim of Bold as Brass is to provide bands with an enjoyable day out and an opportunity to connect with new audiences of different ages and interests, in a unique heritage setting which marries the cultural traditions of mining and banding.
Sitting just before Whit Friday, the event is designed to provide an opportunity for bands to perform marches within their repertoire as well as showcase their summer programmes in a unique space where audiences can sit and enjoy the music.
The 2024 event drew a crowd of over 1000 audience members, who enjoyed the music as well as exploring the museum’s grounds, activities and its underground mine.
There will be food and drink available throughout the day, not to mention the option to visit the rest of the museum's attractions so there’s something for everyone during the day.
"We really enjoyed being part of the event, which was so well run, and are looking forward to applying for next year." 2024 band feedback
How can my band enter?
Bands in the second section and under are invited to enter via the BBE website from Monday 27 January, with a deadline of midday on Monday 10 March.
Entry is free, with spaces for 10 bands to take part. Places may fill up before the deadline, in which case a waiting list will be opened.
If you would like more information about taking part, please visit contact: events@bbe.org.uk
"The organisation on the day was really well managed. We didn't feel rushed at all, and weren't under any pressure to set up and play quicker than we needed." 2024 band feedback
Bands that require further support to attend are reminded that the BBE fundraising service is available to offer support for your band's fundraising needs.
