Sydney City Brass Invited to the British Open Brass Band Championships in 2026
Sydney City Brass has received an invitation to compete at the 172nd British Open Brass Band Championship, to be held on Saturday 12 September 2026 at the Symphony Hall, Birmingham, UK — the oldest and most prestigious brass band contest in the world. This marks a landmark achievement for the Australian band, as it will be only the fifth time in history that an Australian ensemble has competed at the British Open.
A Prestigious Invitation
The British Open, founded in 1853, is recognised globally as the pinnacle of brass band competition. Hosted since 1998 in the world-class acoustic setting of Symphony Hall, the event brings together the finest bands from across the UK and Europe, each performing a single test piece chosen to challenge their musical and technical limits.
Over its long history, the British Open has established a reputation for excellence and artistry — with winners earning a revered place in brass band folklore. Invitations to compete at this prestigious contest are rare, and international appearances even more so, underlining the significance of Sydney City Brass’s selection.
From National Champions to the International Stage
The invitation follows Sydney City Brass’s outstanding success at the 2025 Australian National Championships, where the band, under the direction of Jason Katsikaris, claimed the Premier Grade title in Melbourne. Their performances across the set test, own-choice, hymn, and march sections demonstrated both precision and passion — hallmarks that have come to define the ensemble’s sound.
Since its founding, Sydney City Brass has built a reputation as one of Australia’s most dynamic and forward-thinking bands, blending professional musicians, educators, and community players in pursuit of musical excellence.
A Historic Moment for Australian Banding
Competing at the British Open will place Sydney City Brass among an elite group of Australian bands to have appeared at the contest — a distinction shared only twice before in the Open’s long history. The invitation represents not just recognition of the band’s artistry, but also a proud moment for Australian banding as a whole.
“Being invited to the British Open is a dream come true,” said Musical Director Jason Katsikaris. “It’s an incredible honour to represent Australia on such a renowned international stage, and a challenge we are embracing with great excitement and determination.”
Looking Ahead to Birmingham
Preparations for the 2026 Championship are already underway, with the band set to embark on an extensive rehearsal and fundraising programme in the months ahead.
While the test piece for 2026 has yet to be announced, it will no doubt continue the Open’s tradition of choosing music that both tests the very best and captivates the audience.
As Sydney City Brass prepares to take the stage at Symphony Hall next September, anticipation is building — not only within the band, but across the Australian and international brass band community.
Follow the Journey
Updates, rehearsal insights, and fundraising announcements will be shared on the band’s official channels in the lead-up to the event.
Visit sydneycitybrass.com.au and follow Sydney City Brass on social media to keep up with this historic journey to Birmingham.
