Black Dyke Band appearing at the Royal Northern College of Music
Over the last few weeks, The Black Dyke Band has maintained a busy schedule of concerts, each of which has delighted and inspired its audiences. 2026 began in fine style, as it has done in previous years, at the Town Hall in Birmingham. This was the first full concert to feature the band’s new Principal Cornet Tom Hutchinson and it’s fair to say, this was a spectacular occasion with breathtaking musical virtuosity on display.
This was followed closely by the band’s annual appearance at the RNCM as part of the International Brass Band Festival. This featured some truly outstanding music, including premieres from Bruce Broughton, Jacob Wilhelm and Simon Dobson. The band consider it a real privilege to present such fine works in such an auspicious setting, particularly with the various eminent composers present. This opportunity is never taken for granted.
Special thanks and congratulations to all the band’s soloists, particularly Tom Hutchinson and Adam Bokaris and also special guest percussion soloist Yasuaki Fukuhara for his breathtaking music making. The prolonged standing ovation from a capacity audience was a testament to how much the audience were thrilled with his performance. The band was also delighted that the entire concert was recorded for future broadcast on Radio 3.
Concerts in Saffron Walden, the beautiful Doncaster Minster and then Pudsey Civic Hall were followed by the band’s participation in the Yorkshire Regional Championships. This is always a highlight in the band’s calendar and 2026 was no exception. Drawn no 2, the band delivered a very solid performance of ‘Elgar Variations’ by Martin Ellerby, however this year the band’s 5-year winning streak was interrupted by a 4th place finish. Huge congratulations to Hepworth  Band on becoming the Yorkshire Champions, and to Grimethorpe Colliery Band on securing 2nd place and qualifying for the National finals. We look forward to both bands joining us at the Royal Albert Hall in October!
Yorkshire Regional Finals – Huddersfield Town Hall
Then…to Bolton, where the band was joined on stage by Bolton and Wigan Music Services Bands. One of the joys of brass banding is to see young musicians grow and develop and take their place in a performance setting. This was such a great occasion, encouraged by a truly wonderful and appreciative audience. The band is already excited about the prospect of a repeat performance on Thursday 18th March 2027!
These are just a few of many highlights the band and its audiences have enjoyed recently. Thanks as always to the band’s loyal friends and supporters. It would be wonderful to see you at a concert coming soon, for details please visit the ‘Events’ section of the band’s website.
Photography: John Stirzaker
Article: David Nicholson