Get ready to immerse yourself in an exuberant atmosphere as the beloved Durham Brass Festival returns, bringing a vibrant party spirit to the streets of Durham City.
From Sunday 9 to Sunday 16 July, the Durham Brass Festival, organized by the Durham County Council, will captivate audiences with a week-long extravaganza of breathtaking performances, innovative creations, free concerts, engaging community activities, and dynamic street bands.
On Saturday 15 and Sunday 16 July, the heart of the city will come alive with the thrilling event called Streets of Brass, a fitting finale to the exhilarating festival. This celebration of brass music from around the globe will entertain visitors, showcasing both beloved classics and fresh talents.
Be prepared to witness the streets of Durham transformed into a spectacle of musical brilliance. On Saturday 15 July, starting at 5:30 pm, Wharton Park will host an incredible, free party where the bands will converge, creating an unforgettable experience.
Join us for a week filled with energy, music, and joy as the Durham Brass Festival brings the city to life, welcoming both familiar sounds and exciting new rhythms to its vibrant streets.
“Streets of Brass is a highlight of Durham Brass Festival where the city will be filled with the lively energy of bands from across the world. Being able to host events where we can celebrate the international styles of music is part of our ambition to make County Durham the culture county.
“Durham Brass Festival is famed for bringing its high-energy party atmosphere to the county and, with just over a month to go, we hope people are as excited as we are for the return of this fantastic festival.”
Cllr Elizabeth Scott, Durham County Council’s Cabinet member for economy and partnerships
Adding to the vibrant atmosphere are beloved Spanish favourites, Artistas del Gremio, who will treat festival-goers to their unique blend of music and style, incorporating both popular and traditional songs. Back Chat Brass, a cherished fixture of the Durham Brass scene, will also grace the streets with their explosive beats, infusing popular hits with elements of pop, funk, and hip-hop.
Immerse yourself in the spirited ambience of New Orleans as Heavy Beat Brass Band and The Original Pinettes transport festival-goers to the city’s authentic party scene. Heavy Beat Brass Band captures the essence of New Orleans’ lively atmosphere, while The Original Pinettes proudly hold the title of the world’s only all-female New Orleans brass band. Embracing the Louisiana flavour, the New York Brass Band, an eight-piece ensemble hailing from North Yorkshire, draws inspiration from the vibrant sounds of New Orleans. Mr Wilson’s Second Liners embodies the festive spirit of a traditional funeral procession’s second line, inviting people to dance and revel in the music as they follow the band.
Prepare to be enthralled by the first and only all-female Italian street band, Girlesque, as they deliver an unforgettable performance that combines burlesque flair with a delightful blend of sound, movement, and fun.
Introducing a fresh sonic experience to the festival, Badcore Horns, a forward-thinking trio, has crafted their unique “Drum & Brass” sound using innovative “cyber” saxophones and “techno” trumpets. Joining them is DAT Bass, a London-based group that seamlessly merges bass energy, turntables, and a meticulously crafted horn section.
Keeping the brass extravaganza alive, Loud Noises, a high-energy band from Leeds, will fuse contemporary brass with dance music, while FAT Brass, a true tour de force, will weave together tunes ranging from Disclosure to ABBA.
In conjunction with this year’s BRASS festival, the immensely popular Durham City Run will take place on Friday, July 14, and Saturday, July 15. Participants will race through the city centre, accompanied by live music from the talented Streets of Brass bands.
For tickets and additional information, please visit www.brassfestival.co.uk.
