The Gala Durham

A standout highlight of the Brass Festival, celebrating the incredible versatility of brass music by re-imagining it in fresh and exciting ways.

This unique programme pairs Northeast artists with talented brass ensembles to create new music and take part in a unique and unforgettable performance.

This year’s Brassed On artists include Liz Corney, musician and singer-songwriter from the Northeast and founding member of alt-pop band The Cornshed Sisters, Faithful Johannes & Neocia who write and perform rap music, live in Durham City and have released three albums, a string of EPs and singles and received multiple radio plays on BBC 6Music, and Amateur Ornithologist whose neurodivergent members have found a home for their musical expressions; fusing pop, orchestral, jazz and rock influences to create a grand melodic sound.

In partnership with BBC Music Introducing and NARC Magazine.

The Gala Durham

Experience one of the world’s finest brass bands like never before as The Fairey Band presents a breathtaking performance of Pictures at an Exhibition. This unique concert pairs a stunning brass arrangement of Mussorgsky’s masterpiece with mesmerising, animated interpretations, creating an unforgettable audiovisual experience.

The animations, produced by Ion Concert Media in collaboration with the USC School of Cinematic Arts, bring Mussorgsky’s musical response to Hartmann’s artwork to life. Audiences will be transported into a world of fantasy, whimsy, and adventure as the visuals and music intertwine in a truly immersive spectacle.

The afternoon opens with a powerful programme of traditional brass audience favourites, showcasing the band’s outstanding soloists. The performance culminates in the second half, where the full brass arrangement of Pictures at an Exhibition is brought to life alongside stunning animated film. 

Don’t miss this extraordinary concert, where world-class brass meets groundbreaking visual artistry in a celebration of music, imagination and innovation.

See also The Fairey Band presents Acid Brass

The Gala Durham

For the first time at Durham BRASS Festival, The Fairey Band brings Acid Brass an unlikely but exciting fusion of Acid House anthems performed by traditional British brass band.

Brainchild of British conceptual artist Jeremy Deller, Acid Brass explores the deep social and political connections between the brass band and Acid House movements. Since its inception the project has earned widespread acclaim for its bold innovation and infectious energy.

Renowned for pushing musical boundaries, The Fairey Band continues to evolve Acid Brass, blending iconic Acid House anthems with ’90s house classics and fresh new arrangements. The event will also feature a live DJ setting the atmosphere for a dance filled evening. 

Combining culture, history, entertainment and world-class brass musicianship, Acid Brass is a genre-defying spectacle that promises to be an unforgettable highlight of the festival. Do not miss it!

See also The Fairey Band performing Pictures at an Exhibition and Traditional Brass Concert.

NASUWT Concert Band

NASUWT Concert Band will be heading to Wharton Park this summer to treat visitors to free Brass concerts in the park’s amphitheatre.

Taking place from 1.00pm to 3.00pm, pack a picnic bring a blanket or a chair, sit back and enjoy the music.

Trimdon Brass

Trimdon Brass will be heading to Wharton Park this summer to treat visitors to free Brass concerts in the park’s amphitheatre.

Taking place from 1.00pm to 3.00pm, pack a picnic bring a blanket or a chair, sit back and enjoy the music.