Contesting is an important part of the Brass Banding calendar. Bands are ranked in Championship, 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th Sections. Flixton Band currently competes in the Second Section. The most important contest of the year is the North West Regional Championships (or "the Areas" as they are known), held in March. Results over the last three years at the Areas determine promotion and relegation. A high placing in any year (usually first two bands from the Section) also qualifies for the National Championships of Great Britain, held in September.



Pictured above : Dave Mitten collects a trophy

Throughout the year many other contests are held. Some are set-piece contests like the Areas and others allow own-choice. At "entertainment'" contests bands play a short concert-style programme. The Whit Friday Marches are an amazing spectacle as villages across Saddleworth and Tameside each host a contest on the same evening, with over one hundred bands competing at as many as possible.

Disclaimer  © Flixton Band 2003-2007