Taking inspiration from the brass band heritage of Durham and celebrating brass music in all its forms, Durham Brass Festival brings together all musical genres into a nine-day festival taking place across County Durham. In recent years, the festival has included headline contemporary performances involving brass, across iconic locations, from UK and international artists including Richard Hawley, LYR and Fat Freddy’s Drop.
As well as boosting the economy and raising the Durham’s reputation as a cultural destination, the festival hosts outdoor performances with eclectic and exciting street bands, as well as an outreach programme including community workshops, and free concerts in schools, communities and care homes across the county.
Durham Brass Festival is a key part of Durham County Council’s festivals and events programme and reflects the local authority’s commitment to cultural-led regeneration.
Brassed On
In 2023, Durham Brass Festival saw two of the North East’s most exciting up and coming artists partner with professional brass players to give their music a whole new dimension in Brassed On.
Sunderland-based singer-songwriter Tom A. Smith and Middlesbrough’s soulful songwriter Sisi teamed up with the high octane sound of Loud Noises and all-female brass outfit The Original Pinettes respectively to provide a memorable night of live music.
Check out the documentary, with interviews and performance footage from the gig, and find out more about this year’s Brassed On.
Durham Brass Festival – Brassed On Documentary – video transcript.pdf
