2026 Repertoire

One of the most eagerly anticipated moments in the build-up to every Brass Band Summer School is the unveiling of the course repertoire. For our 40th Anniversary Course, Musical Director Dr Robert Childs has once again assembled an exciting and varied programme of music that promises to challenge, inspire and entertain throughout the week.

This year sees the introduction of three new bands – the Tolkien Band, Christie Band and Holst Band – each with its own distinctive selection of repertoire. Every programme has been carefully planned to offer a broad range of musical styles and experiences, ensuring there is something to suit every player. Whilst each band includes at least one aspirational work to stretch and inspire, the overall repertoire has been selected with players of all abilities in mind, providing music that is both enjoyable and rewarding whilst helping everyone continue to develop as musicians.

The Brass Band Summer School is also delighted to celebrate the 75th birthday of Philip Sparke, one of the most significant composers in the brass band world. To mark this milestone, each band will perform one of his much-loved works, recognising his outstanding contribution to our repertoire and to generations of brass musicians.

But perhaps the biggest musical surprise is still to come. Not included on the repertoire lists below are four brand-new works commissioned especially by the Brass Band Summer School to mark our 40th Anniversary. Composed by four of the most exciting young talents writing for brass band today – Andrea Price, Annabel Baxter, Lucy Pankhurst and Rebecca Lundberg, these world premieres will be unveiled during the course, making this year's celebration even more special.

Selecting repertoire is one of the most important responsibilities of the Musical Director, and Dr Robert Childs devotes an enormous amount of time, thought and consideration to creating programmes that are educational, enjoyable and memorable. We are confident that this year's selection offers something for everyone and can't wait to hear the music come to life this August.

Each player will be provisionally assigned to either the Tolkien, Christie or Holst bands ahead of the course. During the week, participants will also rehearse in smaller, tutor-led ensembles, exploring a variety of additional repertoire.