West of England Bandsmen's Festival Announces 2025 Contest
The West of England Bandsmen's Festival (WEBF), affectionately known as the Bugle Band Contest, has announced key updates for its 99th annual event, scheduled for Saturday, June 21, 2025, at Molinnis Park, Bugle.
The WEBF Committee will welcome Melvin White as the adjudicator for the 2025 contest. Melvin's extensive background in both conducting and adjudicating makes him a respected figure in the brass band community. His musical journey began with the Salvation Army, followed by studies at the Royal College of Music and the London College of Music. Melvin has conducted renowned bands such as Cory, GUS, and Stavanger, and has appeared on programs like Friday Night is Music Night and Listen to the Band. His previous work in the West of England includes successful associations with Aldbourne, Woodfalls, and St Austell bands. Melvin is a member of The Association of Brass Band Adjudicators and has officiated at numerous national and regional events.
In response to growing interest, the WEBF Committee is launching the Festival Showcase Section. This non-competitive category welcomes unregistered, ungraded, and scratch bands to participate in a more relaxed setting. Participant band consisting of up to 35 players will perform a 15-minute own-choice program in an open adjudication format, receiving constructive remarks and earning Gold, Silver, or Bronze certificates based on their performance. The entry fee for this new section is £100.
To enhance inclusivity and flexibility, the following rule changes have been implemented:
1. Borrowing Players: Bands may borrow up to five players for the contest, with one of these borrows permitted from a band registered one section above the competing band's registered section.
2. Youth Section Eligibility: Bands entering the Youth Section may now include players under the age of 21, expanding opportunities for young musicians.
These updates aim to foster greater participation and enjoyment for all involved.
The WEBF Committee has announced the music selections for the upcoming contest:
Championship Section:
Test Piece: ‘A Tale As Yet Untold’ by Philip Sparke
Melody: ‘In Perfect Peace’ by Kenneth Downie
First Section:
Test Piece: ‘Land of the Long White Cloud’ by Philip Sparke
March: ‘Knight Templar’ by George Allan
Second Section:
Test Piece: ‘Sword, Jewel and Mirror’ by Philip Harper
March: ‘Star Lake’ by Eric Ball
Third Section:
Own Choice Test Piece
Fourth Section:
Own Choice Test Piece
Youth Section:
Own Choice Programme
Training Section:
Own Choice Programme
Festival Showcase Section:
Own Choice Programme
These selections aim to challenge participating bands while honouring the rich tradition of brass band music.
Following a positive start to the year, the WEBF has filled key positions to ensure the continued success of the festival: Bugle Band Contest
Contest Promoter: Matthew Rowe
Secretary: Danni Slater
Treasurer: Barbara Barnes
The committee also welcomed new members Rob Faro, Helen Hancock, Carol Stanlake, and Shane Solomon. The WEBF extends its sincere gratitude for the tremendous support received from the community, which has been instrumental in sustaining the contest. Volunteers interested in supporting the festival are encouraged to contact promoter@buglebandcontest.co.uk.
A spokesperson from WEBF stated, “As we prepare for the 99th West of England Bandsmen's Festival, and of course beginning preparations for our 100th anniversary in 2026, we remain committed to celebrating and advancing the brass band tradition. We invite bands from across the region and beyond to participate in what promises to be another memorable event.”
Please visit the official website: www.buglebandcontest.co.uk
