Midlands Area Brass Band Championships 2027

The City of Birmingham Brass Band returns to the Midlands Area Brass Band Championships in 2027, competing in the Third Section at Bedworth Civic Hall.

On Sunday 21 March 2027, we’ll be joining brass bands from across the Midlands for one of the most important dates in the regional brass band calendar: the Midlands Area Brass Band Championships.

Organised by the Midlands Area Brass Band Championships committee, the annual contest brings together bands from across the region to compete in their respective sections, showcasing musical excellence, teamwork and the rich tradition of brass banding.

A new challenge for CBBB

For 2027, the City of Birmingham Brass Band will compete in the Third Section, following our time competing in the Second Section.

Under the musical direction of Saphran Ali, we’ll be working hard to prepare for the contest and put forward a performance that reflects the commitment, dedication and enthusiasm of our musicians.

The Area Championships are always a special occasion for the band. Months of rehearsals, individual practice and preparation come together in a single performance in front of adjudicators and fellow brass band enthusiasts.

It’s an opportunity to challenge ourselves musically, represent Birmingham and enjoy being part of the wider Midlands brass band community.

The 2027 Third Section test piece

This year’s Third Section set work is Iceni Autumn by Darrol Barry.

The four-movement composition draws inspiration from the history of the Iceni, the ancient British tribe associated with Queen Boudicca and their uprising against Roman rule.

Through contrasting musical scenes, the work explores the atmosphere of Roman Britain, the life of the Iceni people and the dramatic events surrounding Boudicca’s rebellion.

The piece presents an exciting musical challenge, demanding careful preparation, ensemble precision and expressive playing from every section of the band.

We’re looking forward to exploring this music together and bringing our interpretation to the contest stage.

Come and support CBBB!

We’d love to see our friends, families and supporters cheering us on at the 2027 Midlands Area Championships.

The Third Section contest begins at 10:00am on Sunday 21 March, with individual band performance times determined by the contest draw.

Whether you’re a regular supporter of the City of Birmingham Brass Band or simply enjoy the excitement of live brass band competition, it’s a fantastic opportunity to experience some of the region’s brass bands.

Event information

Date: Sunday 21 March 2027

Third Section start time: 10:00am

Venue: Bedworth Civic Hall, High Street, Bedworth, Warwickshire, CV12 8NF

Competing band: City of Birmingham Brass Band

Section: Third Section

Musical Director: Saphran Ali

Test piece: Iceni Autumn by Darrol Barry

Organiser: Midlands Area Brass Band Championships

Our performance time: To be confirmed following the draw.

For the latest contest arrangements, visiting information and updates, please visit the official Midlands Area Brass Band Championships website.

We look forward to seeing you in Bedworth. Thank you for supporting CBBB!