Durham Brass Festival returns this summer with a packed programme of performances, collaborations and celebrations as it marks its 20th anniversary. Running from Sunday 12th to Sunday 19th July, the festival will bring seven days of music and entertainment to venues and communities across County Durham.
First held in 2006, the festival was inspired by the county’s rich brass band heritage. Two decades later, it has grown into one of the North East’s most popular cultural events, attracting audiences from across the region and beyond. Organised by Durham County Council, this year’s milestone festival promises a memorable mix of traditional brass music, contemporary collaborations and free community events.
Councillor Karen Allison, Durham County Council’s Cabinet Member for Leisure, Tourism, Regeneration and High Street, said brass music remains an important part of County Durham’s identity: “Durham Brass Festival is all about bringing people together and, as we celebrate 20 years, we’ve got a superb line-up in store to do just that,” she said.
The festival opens on Sunday 12th July at Gala Durham with ‘Viva Brass Vegas’, a unique collaboration between ELVANA – the band that performs Nirvana songs in the style of Elvis Presley – and Oompah Brass XXL, the UK’s original rock ‘n’ roll brass band.
At Durham Cathedral, the EverReady Band will present ‘Myth, Magic & More’, a spectacular programme featuring music from film and television favourites including ‘Harry Potter’, ‘The Lord of the Rings’ and ‘Star Wars’.
Returning for a third year is ‘Brassed On’, a showcase celebrating the versatility of brass music. The event will feature emerging North East artists Dilettante, Isabel Maria and Vice Killer performing alongside brass musicians including Easington Colliery Band and Faye McOlgan.
North Shields folk-rock favourites Hector Gannet will also return with their show ‘Talking in the Mother Tongue’, featuring music from their forthcoming album, ‘The Great Shakedown’. The performance will take place at the historic Redhills Durham Miners Hall alongside the Durham Miners’ Association Brass Band.
Tea dances, one of the festival’s most popular features, will return to venues across the county, while Grimethorpe Colliery Band will celebrate the 30th anniversary of the classic film ‘Brassed Off’ with a special concert. Screenings of the film will also take place throughout the festival.
For more information, head to brassfestival.co.uk.
