The National Youth Brass Band of Great Britain launches new composition competition

The National Youth Brass Band of Great Britain (NYBBGB) has launched a new composition competition aimed at young composers, with the winning work set to be performed by the ensemble next summer. First prize also includes £1,000 and publication by Prima Vista Musikk. The runner up will receive £250.

Entries must be previously unpublished works lasting five minutes and suitable for a brass band. Composers should be be no more than 30 years of age, with no lower age limit. A shortlist of six works will be selected from the entities by Robert Childs, NYBBGB's director of artistic planning. Conductor Sarah Ionnades and composer Dorothy Gates will join Childs for the final round of judging. The competition is open until the end of the year (31 December). Further details and criteria for entry can be found on the NYBBGB website.

'A supply of good new music is critical to any ensemble so supporting contemporary composers, particularly young composers, is very important to us,' said NYBBGB CEO Mark Bromley. 'We are looking for a piece that is innovative, reflects our commitment to inclusivity, and has broad brass band appeal.'