NABBA Solo & Ensemble Contest
The NABBA board is excited to announce the 2026 solo contest! We have secured a cast of international judges to help us adjudicate the first round. We have leading players from top brass bands across the world. Take a moment and read about them! We hope you will take part in this year’s contest!Registration opens December 1 and closes January 15Cornet: Tom Hutchinson
Tom Hutchinson, principal cornet of the world-renowned Cory Band, has led his ensemble to historic victories, including British Open, European, and National Championship titles, earning multiple Cory Player of the Year awards for his breathtaking tone and virtuosic flair. As a Professor of Cornet at the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama and a Besson artist, he inspires through global masterclasses and solo performances that redefine cornet artistry. Sign up to be judged by Tom for his expert ear and encouraging feedback, ensuring your performance shines with world-class insight.
Trombone: Brett Baker
Dr. Brett Baker, solo trombone of the top-ranked Cory Band and former principal with Black Dyke for 24 years, has premiered over 100 works and recorded 40+ solo albums, showcasing his innovative approach to trombone artistry. As Chair of the Association of Brass Band Adjudicators and an ITA President’s Award recipient, his global workshops and adjudication at events like the European Championships reflect his passion for nurturing talent. Compete under Brett’s keen judgment for constructive critiques that blend technical precision with a deep love for brass band music.
Euphonium and Baritone: Glenn Van Looy
Glenn Van Looy, solo euphonium of Valaisia Brass Band and former star with Brass Band Heist and Buizingen, has captivated audiences with victories at the Jeju International Brass Competition, UFAM Paris, and Lieksa Euphonium Contest, paired with his signature GVL Cardinal euphonium. A Geneva Instruments artist and conductor, his acclaimed CD Lost Treasures and international performances highlight his lyrical mastery on both euphonium and baritone. Enter to be judged by Glenn for his global perspective and insightful feedback that will elevate your artistry to new heights.
Tuba: Tommy Tynan
Tommy Tynan, principal EEb tuba of Black Dyke Band and former Cory star, has powered championship wins like the 2022 European title while premiering his own arrangement of Ricardo Mollá’s Amaia at the RNCM Festival of Brass. A University of Huddersfield graduate and Randefalk Music artist, his 2023 Cory Player of the Year award reflects his commanding presence and creative contributions to the tuba repertoire. Sign up for Tommy’s adjudication to benefit from his rigorous yet inspiring feedback, crafted to strengthen your foundation and spark bold innovation.
Tenor Horn & Flugelhorn: Sheona Wade
Sheona Wade, the iconic solo horn of the famous Cory Band and former principal with Black Dyke and Yorkshire Building Society, has secured eight European titles and the BBC Radio 2 Young Musician of the Year award with her soulful, Besson-endorsed sound. Her acclaimed CDs like Timeless and commissions from Philip Sparke and Peter Graham have expanded the tenor horn and flugelhorn repertoire, captivating audiences worldwide. Compete under Sheona’s expert adjudication for her warm, detailed critiques that will inspire and refine your musical expression.
Percussion: Connor Stevens
Dr. Connor Stevens, Assistant Professor of Percussion at the University of Oklahoma, leads the OU Percussion Ensemble, Steel Bands, and Pride of Oklahoma Drumline, delivering electrifying performances at PASIC and regional festivals with innovative, high-energy repertoire. A Malletech-endorsed artist and founding member of the Frozen Earth Duo, his international clinics and recordings showcase his mastery of marimba, steel pan, and contemporary percussion. Sign up to be judged by Connor for his vibrant, constructive feedback that will ignite your rhythmic creativity and precision.
Registration opens December 1 and closes January 15