NATIONAL YOUTH BRASS BAND OF GREAT BRITAIN & VICTORIA WOOD FOUNDATION
MARK 10 YEARS SINCE HER DEATH WITH WORLD PREMIERE
A decade after her passing, the comedian Victoria Wood is back in the spotlight, inspiring the next generation of British musical talent. A major new partnership has just been announced between the National Youth Brass Band of Great Britain and the Victoria Wood Foundation, centred around a brand-new commission celebrating Wood’s much-loved songs, sharp wit and her deep connection to brass band culture. This is more than a tribute piece. The partnership will also fund bursaries for young musicians across the UK, helping remove financial barriers and opening the door to the next wave of brass talent.
This vibrant new piece will be written by acclaimed composer Andrea Price and premièred at The NYBBGB Youth Band’s Easter concerts on Saturday 11th April 2026 at The Garden Rooms at Tennants, Leyburn, and on Saturday 18th April 2026 at The Royal Northern College of Music, Manchester. Both performances will be conducted by Professor Nicholas Childs, one of the UK’s most prominent brass band conductors.
This special partnership comes in the year that marks the 10th anniversary of Victoria Wood’s passing, offering a fitting tribute to her deep connection with brass band music. A trumpet player herself, Victoria’s affection for brass banding was evident in her songs, sketches and TV work, including Dinnerladies, Victoria Wood as Seen on TV and her parody of the film Brassed Off during her festive special Victoria Wood with All the Trimmings in 2000. The Black Dyke Band, with whom Victoria had a close relationship, even appeared in the Christmas episode of Dinnerladies in 1999, featuring Professor Nicholas Childs, Guest Conductor for The NYBBGB’s Easter 2026 course and concerts, and Dr Robert Childs, The NYBBGB’s Director of Artistic Planning.
Andrea Price’s new commission draws inspiration from Victoria Wood’s rich musical legacy and will explore the themes of friendship and human connection – both central elements of Victoria’s work. The composition will capture Victoria Wood’s distinctive wit, warmth and musicality, and will incorporate melodies from her celebrated songs, sketches and musicals. From playful childhood motifs to heartfelt lyrical solos, culminating in a powerful finale, the piece promises to be a joyful and emotional tribute.
Andrea Price commented: “It’s an enormous privilege to be entrusted with this commission. Victoria Wood’s music and humour were so full of heart and humanity, and I hope to honour that spirit in this new work. Writing for The NYBBGB is always inspiring – their energy, talent and commitment are second to none – and I’m thrilled to be creating something that celebrates such an iconic artist while supporting the next generation of young musicians.”
Catherine Edis, The Victoria Wood Foundation Trust Administrator added: “When we attended The NYBBGB’s Summer Stage performance in 2024 at St Martin-in-the-Fields, we were struck by the talent, passion and mission of this extraordinary youth organisation. Victoria herself loved brass band music, and we are delighted to support projects that celebrate her legacy while empowering the next generation of musicians.”
For more information about these concerts: www.nybbgb.org.uk/whats-on/events
