In this final episode of the series, hosts Sarah Baumann and Kenny Crookston explore the evolution of women’s roles in brass banding. With a focus on the challenges faced by women past and present, the groundbreaking moments, the inspiring personal stories, and the ongoing journey toward gender equality, this episode is packed with insightful discussions, historical context, and powerful interviews.

Just a few decades ago, women were rare in competitive bands, and many top-tier ensembles simply didn’t allow women players. Today, things are slowly changing, but there is still a long way to go. 

Amazingly, we’re still seeing firsts for women, despite it being 2024. Sarah catches up with Annie Crookston who, just a few weeks ago, became the first female adjudicator at the British Open (a contest that’s been running for 170 years!). Annie shares her journey and the significance of breaking into this male-dominated role. She opens up about the preparation and pressure involved, and what it means for the future of women in adjudicating roles.

We also hear from PhD researchers Marrianne Garbutt and Sarah Crowe, who discuss their findings on women in brass banding across performance, conducting, and adjudication, and the everyday challenges of women in banding, historic and modern-day, and the societal barriers that kept women from participating.

Composer Tracey McGuire talks about her work with Femmes Fortissimo and her composition, A New Anthem, inspired by the tragic events surrounding Sarah Everard’s murder. Tracey discusses the challenges women face in banding and the importance of creating supportive spaces, like that at Femmes Fortissimo, an all-female brass band in York.

The episode also touches on significant cultural moments, such as the impact of Section 28. Jamie Fletcher delivers a powerful reflection on growing up as a queer, trans woman through that period, and highlights the importance of diversity and inclusion in banding and how bands can serve as a vehicle for change and representation.

This final episode is both a celebration of progress and a reminder of the work still to be done — it’s a must-listen!

For more information, visit our website at https://www.bbe.org.uk and follow us on social media. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a 5-star review and share your favourite moments using the hashtag #BrassBandPodcast.

To explore the Brass Bands Archive, visit www.brassbandsarchive.com

Thanks to the National Lottery Heritage Fund, Arts Council England and the Scottish Power Foundation for their support. To hear any of the tracks played in this episode in full, head to www.wobplay.com.

Hosts: Kenny Crookston & Sarah Baumann (CEO & COO, Brass Bands England)

Episode Guests:

• Annie Crookston (first female adjudicator at The British Open Brass Band Championship)
• Marrianne Garbutt (PhD Researcher, University of Salford)
• Sarah Crowe (PhD Researcher, University of Gloucestershire)
• Tracey McGuire (Composer and member of Femmes Fortissimo)
• Jamie Fletcher (Director, Kinky Toots)

Music Featured (Courtesy of World of Brass): 

• Four Minute Mile (Judith Bingham), Black Dyke Band
• Fling (Andrea Price), Andrea Price with Balck Dyke Band
• Beyond the Light (Liz Lane), Grimethorpe Colliery Band

Podcast Producer: Peter Baumann

Politics and brass bands have been intertwined since the earliest days of banding, from the industrial roots of colliery and works bands to modern debates over funding and public perception. 

Starting with the formation of early brass bands by industrialists, hosts Sarah Baumann and Kenny Crookston dive into how bands were used as tools for advertising, community morale, and even social control. They trace the impact of political shifts, like the decline of industry and the miners’ strikes, which marked the beginning of the end for many colliery bands. The episode reveals how band names evolved alongside their sponsors and how bands have navigated shifting political landscapes from the Victorian era to today.

Guests include David Hirst, who shares his deep knowledge of Black Dyke’s industrial heritage, and journalist Iwan Fox, who discusses the crucial but often contentious role that politics plays in banding today. Iwan reflects on the changing landscape, from funding battles to the influence of popular culture, and Tredegar Town Band’s involvement in the film Pride. He also highlights the ongoing political power that bands can wield when they engage effectively with their communities and policymakers.

We also hear from Hannah Beach, a young trustee of Brass Bands England, who offers a fresh perspective on how brass bands have maintained their resilience through eras of political change, and how they can continue to thrive by embracing their community roots.

Packed with expert insights, rare archival finds, and thought-provoking conversations, this episode paints a vivid picture of brass bands’ political past and their fight for a sustainable future.

For more information, visit our website at https://www.bbe.org.uk and follow us on social media. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a 5-star review and share your favourite moments using the hashtag #BrassBandPodcast.

To explore the Brass Bands Archive, visit www.brassbandsarchive.com

Thanks to the National Lottery Heritage Fund, Arts Council England and the Scottish Power Foundation for their support. To hear any of the tracks played in this episode in full, head to www.wobplay.com.

Hosts: Kenny Crookston & Sarah Baumann (CEO & COO, Brass Bands England)

Episode Guests:

• David Hirst (formerly of Black Dyke Band)
• Iwan Fox (historian and journalist, editor at 4BarsRest.com, Tredegar Town Band)
• Hannah Beech (Trustee, Brass Bands England)

Music Featured (Courtesy of World of Brass): 

• B.B. & C.F. (James Ord Hume), Grimethorpe Colliery (UK Coal) Band, from The History of Brass Band Music: The Early Years

Podcast Producer: Peter Baumann

From the pioneering days of Fred Mortimer to the public prominence of his son Harry, the Mortimers have defined and redefined the standards of brass band performance, conducting, and competition.

Through a combination of historical anecdotes, exclusive interviews, and expert insights, hosts Sarah Baumann and Kenny Crookston explore how the Mortimers shaped the Foden’s band into a powerhouse, raised the profile of brass bands in the public eye, left their mark on brass band contesting and set the benchmark for musical excellence. Discover the story of Fred Mortimer’s early days as a conductor and his sons’ — Harry, Alex and Rex — rise to fame, cementing their position as one of the most influential families in brass band history.

Kenny pays a visit to the historic Foden’s Band Room, where he meets the legendary Jimmie Charles, who reminisces about his time with the band and the profound impact the Mortimers had on its success. 

Kenny catches up with Phillip McCann, one of the finest cornet players of our time, who reflects on his personal encounters with Harry Mortimer and how Harry’s unique approach influenced generations of players and conductors. Phillip shares his memories of playing with the iconic Men o’ Brass, unique experiences at Belle Vue, and his own performances of the famous solo ‘Alpine Echoes’ on an Echo Cornet.

Later, Kenny also sits down with Martin Mortimer, Harry’s son, who shares intimate stories about his father’s legacy, growing up surrounded by and touring with brass bands, and the continuing influence of the Mortimer family on the brass band scene. He discusses the challenges of modernising and managing public perception of banding, and the family’s continued and deep-rooted connection to the British Open Brass Band Championships. Martin’s reflections provide a unique glimpse into the personal side of the Mortimers and their enduring impact on brass band culture.

With rare archival items, fascinating insights, and stories from those who knew them best, this episode paints a vivid picture of a family that helped shape the brass band world as we know it. Tune in to discover the lasting influence of brass band royalty, their contributions to music and culture, and the heritage they left behind that still resonates today.

For more information, visit our website at https://www.bbe.org.uk and follow us on social media. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a 5-star review and share your favourite moments using the hashtag #BrassBandPodcast.

To explore the Brass Bands Archive, visit www.brassbandsarchive.com

Thanks to the National Lottery Heritage Fund, Arts Council England and the Scottish Power Foundation for their support. To hear any of the tracks played in this episode in full, head to www.wobplay.com.

Hosts: Kenny Crookston & Sarah Baumann (CEO & COO, Brass Bands England)

Episode Guests:

• Jimmie Charles
• Phillip McCann
• Martin Mortimer

Music Featured (Courtesy of World of Brass): 

• Kenilworth (Sir Arthur Bliss), Fodens Courtois Band, Centenary Brass
• ‘Alpine Echoes’ from Phillip McCann salutes Harry Mortimer (Basil Windsor), Phillip McCann with Britannia Building Society Foden Band, The National Brass Band Festival 1988

Podcast Producer: Peter Baumann

Every year, the iconic first notes of the Last Post resonate across the UK as we remember the stories, bravery and sacrifices of those who serve in the military, past and present. But the lasting impact of bandsmen and brass bands within the military goes much, much further. From stories of entire bands joining the war effort to modern-day solemn services of remembrance, discover how brass bands play an integral role in commemorating significant events, honouring those who serve and contributing to the cultural tapestry of military and civic life.

We reflect on the enduring legacy of brass bands in commemorating military history and the profound impact of bandsmen on life as we know it, their communities and remembrance. Hosts Kenny Crookston and Sarah Baumann meet up with two incredible guests: Elizabeth Smith of the Commonwealth War Graves Commission and the inimitable Frank Renton, who brings with him a fountain of knowledge from his decades-long career working with brass bands and serving in the military.

Elizabeth reflects on her recent visit to Heritage Quay where she had the chance to see some of the military uniforms in the Brass Bands Archive, and sheds light on the importance of the work of the Commission to raise awareness about war casualties. Sarah and Elizabeth also explore the deep historical ties between military life and brass band traditions. 

Later in the episode, Kenny meets up with Frank for a coffee in a bustling café. They talk through his direct experience of life in the military and the central role of brass bands in remembrance. Frank also shares his personal insights into the work of some of the composers in the Brass Bands Archive.

It’s an episode packed with expert insights, historical facts, personal anecdotes, and thought-provoking reflections. Tune in to discover the significance of brass bands in remembrance and how they continue to play a vital role in honouring the past.

For more information, visit our website at https://www.bbe.org.uk and follow us on social media. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a 5-star review and share your favourite moments using the hashtag #BrassBandPodcast.

To explore the Brass Bands Archive, visit www.brassbandsarchive.com

Thanks to the National Lottery Heritage Fund, Arts Council England and the Scottish Power Foundation for their support. To hear any of the tracks played in this episode in full, head to www.wobplay.com.

Hosts: Kenny Crookston & Sarah Baumann (CEO & COO, Brass Bands England)

Episode Guests:

• Elizabeth Smith (Public Engagement Coordinator for the North East at the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, and Safeguarding Officer at Brass Bands England)
• Frank Renton (musician, arranger, conductor and broadcaster)

Music Featured (Courtesy of World of Brass): 

• Last Post (Jessica Curry arr. Alan Catherall), Reg Vardy Band
• Colonel Bogey (Kenneth J. Alford), Foden's Richardson Band and The Band of Her Majesty's Royal Marines, Scotland
• On the Quarter Deck (Kenneth J. Alford), Grimethorpe Colliery Band

Podcast Producer: Peter Baumann

Welcome back to The Brass Band Podcast: Archive Edition! In this episode, hosts Sarah Baumann and Kenny Crookston dive into the exhilarating world of brass band contesting, a tradition that has driven excellence and camaraderie in the brass band community for over 170 years. 

From the historic origins of contesting to the vibrant and competitive atmosphere of modern-day events like UniBrass, Brass in Concert and Whit Friday, we explore how contesting has shaped brass band culture and continues to propel the exceptional standards of musicianship seen and heard across the world.

Get up to speed with the nuances of various contest formats, including entertainment contests, set test piece contests, and own-choice test piece contests. Unravel the mysteries of judging methods, from closed to open adjudication, and explore the heartbreak of relegation and the excitement of promotion.

We’ve got fascinating discussions with several special guests, insights into the logistics and excitement of contest days, and stories from the archives that highlight the passion and dedication of bands and their communities. Tune in to discover why contesting remains a vital part of the brass banding calendar!

For more information, visit our website at https://www.bbe.org.uk and follow us on social media. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a 5-star review and share your favourite moments using the hashtag #BrassBandPodcast.

To explore the Brass Bands Archive, visit www.brassbandsarchive.com

Thanks to the National Lottery Heritage Fund, Arts Council England and the Scottish Power Foundation for their support. To hear any of the tracks played in this episode in full, head to www.wobplay.com.

Hosts: Kenny Crookston & Sarah Baumann (CEO & COO, Brass Bands England)

Episode Guests:

1. Jess Wilson & Rosie Banham (Staff, Brass Bands England)
2. Nigel Stevens (CEO, Brass in Concert // English Delegate, European Brass Band Association // Trustee, Brass Bands England)
3. James Everitt (Trustee, The UniBrass Foundation)

Podcast Producer: Peter Baumann

Welcome to the Brass Band Podcast: Archive Edition! In this 6-part series, we'll be diving into the fascinating history of brass banding, from its origins and traditions to the modern innovations and fantastic music that have shaped this remarkable culture.

To kick things off, in this episode hosts Sarah Baumann & Kenny Crookston introduce the Brass Bands Archive, a central repository for the history of brass banding, catalogued by BBE and housed at Heritage Quay at the University of Huddersfield. We hear from BBE's archivist, Danni, and dedicated volunteers John and Lesley about the wonders and challenges of preserving and recording this incredible collection.

Sarah and Kenny also share their own journeys in brass banding, from their early beginnings to their current roles at Brass Bands England. They discuss the importance of the archive in preserving an accurate portrayal of the culture for future generations, as well as the exciting future of brass banding as a diverse and thriving community.

Tune in to hear about original manuscripts, the joys of uncovering forgotten treasures, and how you can get involved in the Brass Bands Archive. And don't miss our next episode, where we'll be diving into the world of brass band contesting!

So, whether you're a seasoned brass band aficionado or just curious, this podcast has something for everyone. Tune in and discover the world of brass banding — like never before!

For more information, visit our website at https://www.bbe.org.uk and follow us on social media. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a 5-star review and share your favourite moments using the hashtag #BrassBandPodcast.

To explore the Brass Bands Archive, visit www.brassbandsarchive.com

Thanks to the National Lottery Heritage Fund, Arts Council England and the Scottish Power Foundation for their support. To hear any of the tracks played in this episode in full, head to www.wobplay.com.

Hosts: Kenny Crookston & Sarah Baumann

Episode Guests: Danielle Spargo, John Grayson & Lesley Lewis

Podcast Producer: Peter Baumann