The Champions of Brass

Hannah reveals the winners of the 2026 National Brass Band Championships and finds out what it takes to be the best. Desford Colliery take us behind their bandroom as the winners of last year’s contest. They look back on the competition, and play their winning performance for us. Plus hear Black Dyke’s sprint finish at the Proms, music from Philip Sparke, and a piece inspired by an imagined ballet.

Throughout the series, composer and ex-Youth Bander Hannah Peel plays a mix of inspiring brass music from across the globe, and meets today’s passionate banders as she goes behind their bandrooms.

Producer: Olivia Swift
Executive Producer: Philip Tagney
A Reform Radio production for BBC Radio 3