The Durham Brass Festival: Keeping the Music Alive for Future Generations
It's a story as old as time: the preservation of heritage. But what if that heritage was the vibrant, resonating sound of brass bands? The Durham Brass Festival, celebrating its 20th anniversary next year, is doing just that. This isn't just a music festival; it's a lifeline for a tradition deeply woven into the fabric of Durham's history.
Tony Thompson, band manager and player for the NASUWT Riverside Brass Band, has been a part of the festival since its inception in 2006. He emphasizes the critical role it plays in ensuring the survival of brass band music, a tradition that once thrived in the region's mining communities. But here's where it gets controversial: the decline of the mining industry in the mid-1980s led to a decrease in support for these bands. The festival stepped in to fill the void.
"Brass bands were there for a recreation outlet for the miners, and most mines closed in the mid-1980s and that's when brass bands started to dwindle because there wasn't any support for them," Thompson explained. Over time, the brass festival has helped to fill in that gap and helped to explore different avenues for brass bands.
Run by Durham County Council, the festival is a week-long celebration, taking place from July 12th to 19th, with performances in various venues, from streets and parks to historic locations, care homes, and schools. Karen Allison, a cabinet member, highlights the festival's roots in the Durham Miners' Gala, expanding into a broader celebration of music, heritage, culture, and community.
And this is the part most people miss: The festival bridges the old and the new. It showcases the county's historical roots while embracing innovation. As Thompson points out, "We have got very few brass bands now compared to what we had, so it is important we continue with the heritage we had."
The festival's ability to blend traditional brass bands with headliners like Simon Armitage, LYR, Fat Freddy's Drop, Richard Hawley, and Public Service Broadcasting is a testament to its versatility. The NASUWT Riverside Band, a group of 25 brass players and three percussionists, has been involved for 16 years. Founded in 1875, it's one of the oldest bands in the North of England, rehearsing in the former mining village of Pelton Fell.
Mr. Thompson's experiences with the festival have been diverse, including performances at Durham Cathedral and a part in The Miners' Hymns film. He stresses the personal rewards of playing in a brass band, citing its positive impact on mental and physical health.
Currently, the council is seeking acts for the 'Brassed On' event, which showcases emerging artists. Interested musicians can apply online. Headline acts for the 2026 festival will be announced in spring.
What do you think? Does the Durham Brass Festival's mission resonate with you? Do you believe it's essential to preserve such traditions, or do you have a different perspective? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
