Withington to Lead Conductor Summer School in June 2025

Allan Withington to host 'To Beat or Not to Beat Conductor Summer School

Brass Bands England has announced another success for the BBE fundraising service, which is exclusive for BBE members.

Successful Arts Council Grant to Support Summer School

A total of £20,690 has been granted from Arts Council England to Carlton Main Frickley Colliery Band working in partnership with Allan Withington. Alan is one of Europe’s best and most creative brass band conductors, well-known for his intelligent and high-class programme writing.

Rob Browne, Carlton Main’s Band Manager, said:

“It is an absolute privilege for Carlton Main to work with Allan and BBE to bring Allan's global conducting school to England for the first time. Especially to host the event in the heart of the local community with the support of the local Town Council, it brings a real sense of pride to everyone involved with Carlton Main and we can't wait to welcome all of this year's musicians for what promises to be a fantastic event.”

To Beat or Not to Beat Summer School Details

To Beat or Not to Beat – That is the question!

26 - 29 June 2025 | South Elmsall, Pontefract, South Yorkshire

The project will bring Allan’s renowned Summer School to England for the very first time, with participants being given the opportunity to immerse themselves in a four day residential course with the theme of ‘To Beat or Not to Beat’.

The internationally recognised course will delve into the challenges of maintaining focus and energy during long rehearsals and performances, with a particular look at how conductors can keep both musicians and audiences engaged. Participants can expect to gain skills in artistic leadership, rehearsal techniques, competition preparation and creative programming, whilst gaining tools to improve both their conducting and the musical performance of their ensembles.

The Summer School has grown steadily since 2009, engaging over 180 students from across Europe, Asia, South Africa and the Americas. Each year, the course explores a new theme which encourages cultural interaction and collaboration.

Speaking about the Summer School, Allan said:

“We’re incredibly grateful for the support of Beth and the team at Brass Bands England and Arts Council England, and we look forward to welcoming a new group of conductors to what promises to be another exciting year of musical exploration"

Fee and Bursary Information

The immersive course includes accommodation, meals and all course materials, concluding with a concert performance. There are ten places available. The cost for each place is £650 but the team are happy to be able to offer five bursary places, four funded from Arts Council England and one funded through Brass Bands England.

BBE’s Fundraising Manager, Beth Lambert, had the following to say:

“I’m delighted with this result, particularly the opportunity to be able to offer bursary places, which makes this course truly inclusive and accessible. It’s a really exciting opportunity for conductors from all backgrounds and with all levels of experience to gain new skills, and for cross-cultural learning to take place.”

Apply now

The course is open to all conductors aged 18 and over. Registration is now open and closing on 15 March 2025. If you are interested, you can apply to the Allan Withington Summer School here. Level of experience is not a barrier to participation, so those who are new to conducting as well as those who are more well versed are encouraged to apply.