The National Youth Brass Band Championships of Great Britain (Youth Champs) is a prestigious event that celebrates the musical talents of young brass band musicians across the UK. Organised by our team here at Brass Bands England, the Youth Champs provides a platform for youth bands to demonstrate their skills and compete at a national level, as well as providing non-competitive performance opportunities in the Showcase Section. Central to the success of this event are the adjudicators, whose expertise and guidance are invaluable in assessing performances and providing constructive feedback.
Adjudicator opportunities
We offer unique adjudicator opportunities for experienced musicians and educators to play a pivotal role in the Youth Champs. These opportunities not only contribute to the development of young musicians but also enrich the careers of the adjudicators themselves.
Gavin Saynor’s experience
One of the recent adjudicators, Gavin Saynor, shared his insights and experiences:
"I had the honour of being chosen for this last year. It’s definitely one of the highlights of my musical career. The support and encouragement received from Kenny Crookston and the Brass Bands England team was second to none. Listening to so many enthusiastic youngsters in their respective bands was a joy."
Sheila Allen’s experience
Sheila Allen also reflected on her time as an adjudicator:
"Adjudicating at the Youth Champs last year was a total joy. It's an honour to be a person chosen to reflect on the very moment when all the hard work that goes on in band rooms comes together—a moment of heightened concentration, excitement, and anticipation. For many playing on the day, it’s their first experience, so the feedback you give is so important—it can shape young lives, so to be involved in that magic is just the best. Thanks to BBE for that opportunity and to my co-adjudicator for a great, shared experience."
Emily Evans’ experience
Emily Evans also shared her thoughts on the event:
"Adjudicating at the Youth Champs was a great experience. The event was really well organised, and it was inspiring to see so many young people performing and enjoying themselves!"
Support and encouragement
Gavin highlighted the support provided by our team at BBE, particularly mentioning the valuable guidance of CEO Kenny Crookston. The comprehensive support system ensured that adjudicators were well-prepared and confident in their roles. This included pre-event briefings, access to resources, and continuous guidance throughout the event.
Impact on young musicians
Adjudicators at the Youth Champs have the unique opportunity to influence and inspire the next generation of brass musicians. The experiences shared by Gavin, Sheila, and Emily underscore the joy and fulfilment derived from listening to young talents and providing them with valuable feedback. The enthusiasm and passion of the young performers left a lasting impression on them, reinforcing the importance of such events in nurturing musical talent.
Career highlights
For many adjudicators, participating in the Youth Champs represents a significant milestone in their careers. The experience not only enhances their professional credentials but also offers personal satisfaction and inspiration. The testimonies of Gavin, Sheila, and Emily reflect this sentiment, emphasising how the opportunity stood out as a career highlight.
So, what are you waiting for?
The adjudicator opportunities provided by Brass Bands England for the National Youth Brass Band Championships of Great Britain are invaluable for both the adjudicators and the young musicians. The programme fosters a supportive environment where experienced musicians can mentor and inspire the next generation while also advancing their own careers. As the experiences of previous adjudicators illustrate that the Youth Champs is more than just a competition; it is a celebration of talent, enthusiasm, and the future of brass band music.
Applications for Youth Champs 2025 adjudication is currently open until Tuesday 24 September at 9am.
Youth Champs adjudication Job Description and application form