On Sunday 16 November, we were delighted to host the London Regionals of the National Concert Band Festival in the Trinity Concert Hall for the second year running. The hall was buzzing as we welcomed more than a dozen visiting bands from across the region, each performing in front of adjudicators and hoping to secure a place in next year’s national final.
Trinity entered three ensembles – Symphonic Wind Orchestra (SWO), Junior Symphonic Wind Orchestra (JSWO) and Big Band 1 – and our students rose to the occasion with confidence and musicality.
SWO performed Martin Ellerby’s Paris Sketches, a vibrant four-movement work inspired by different corners of the French capital. From its atmospheric opening to its energetic finale, the piece showcased the ensemble’s expressive control and ensemble unity. The judges praised the performance and said “This was top music-making, with a great choice of programme and every movement was handled with skill and precision. Bravo – a thrilling performance”, awarding the group a coveted Platinum award, the highest possible in the festival.
JSWO followed with Super Heroes ‘R’ Us, a fun, cinematic piece packed with bold themes and rhythmical drive. The judges commented that it was amazing to see such a full band of young musicians with every instrument covered and they gave a confident performance, producing a lovely sound. When the band went into Quincy Jones’ Soul Bossa Nova, the judge only had two words: “groovy baby”. Their spirited performance earned them an impressive Gold Award.
Big Band 1 rounded off the day with a set featuring music developed during their recent collaboration with the Jazzhaus Orchestra from Freiburg, Germany. Their Afro-Cuban-infused programme celebrated global styles and showcased real flair. The adjudicators described the set as “super cool”, they praised the improvisation, the support given by different sections, the energy and vocals. One judge commented, “This is the best youth band I’ve heard, with such a good swing feel. I loved every minute of what you did.” Big Band 1 were awarded our second Platinum of the day.
Both SWO and Big Band have now qualified for the National Final (which Big Band 1 attended last year), taking place on Saturday 11 and Sunday 12 April 2026 at the Royal Northern College of Music in Manchester, where they will perform alongside the most talented young ensembles in the country.
Congratulations to all involved for a fantastic day of music-making.
