NEMBBA currently runs two contests each year, our “association” contest each February and our own-choice test piece contest in the late autumn. We are also working on staging an entertainment contest and a solo, duet and quartet contest: details will be announced in due course. These contests are open to any band, including those outside the geographic area of NEMBBA (Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire and Lincolnshire).
Autumn “Own Choice” Test Piece Contest
Our autumn contest provides an opportunity for all bands in the fourth to championship sections to play a test piece of their choice, together with training bands (limited to twelve registered players) and unregistered bands who are invited to perform a 15 minute entertainment programme. Bands are not required to join NEMBBA to enter.
This year’s contest is on Sunday 3rd November at The Whitworth, Dale Road North, Darley Dale DE4 2EQ and will be adjudicated by Mr. David W. Ashworth.
Entries are now open for the contest.
The rules can be downloaded here: registered band, training band, unregistered band.
February “Area Test Piece” Contest
Our area test piece contest (also known as our Association contest) is usually held two weeks before the Midland Regional contest and is open to all bands in the fourth to championship sections. Training bands (limited to twelve registered players) and unregistered bands are invited to perform a 20 minute entertainment programme.
Next year’s contest will be over the weekend of the 15th and 16th February 2025 at the Post Mill Centre, Market Street, South Normanton DE55 2EJ. Training Bands, Unregistered Bands, Fourth and Second Sections will play on the Saturday and Third, First and Championship Sections will play on the Sunday.
Whilst a contest in its own right, it also provides bands with an opportunity for a trial run before their area contest and to gain feedback from an experienced adjudicator. The entrance fee for this contest also includes membership of NEMBBA.