Black Dyke Band Set for Pudsey Showcase with Prof Childs 2026

Key Points

• Yorkshire champion Black Dyke Band is scheduled to perform a concert entertainment showcase at Pudsey Civic Hall.
• The event takes place on Saturday, 28th February 2026, starting at 7.30pm.
• The concert will be conducted under the baton of Director of Music, Prof Nicholas Childs.
• It forms part of the Leeds ‘Best of Brass’ series, offering locals a chance to see the Queensbury-based band in action.
• The performance precedes the band’s departure to Huddersfield on 8th March 2026, where they aim to defend their Yorkshire Regional Championship title.
• Black Dyke Band hails from Queensbury, a village near Bradford in West Yorkshire, and holds a storied history as one of the world’s most decorated brass bands.
• This showcase highlights their prowess ahead of a critical regional defence, underscoring their dominance in Yorkshire brass banding.

Pudsey (The Leeds Times) February 18, 2026 – Yorkshire’s premier brass ensemble, the Black Dyke Band, will deliver a highly anticipated concert entertainment programme at Pudsey Civic Hall this Saturday, 28th February, at 7.30pm, under the leadership of Director of Music Prof Nicholas Childs. The Queensbury outfit, fresh from their status as regional champions, offers brass enthusiasts a prime opportunity to witness their virtuosity as part of the Leeds ‘Best of Brass’ series, mere days before they travel to Huddersfield on 8th March to defend their Yorkshire Regional Championship crown. This event promises a blend of musical excellence and competitive preview, drawing crowds to the vibrant West Yorkshire music scene.

Who is the Black Dyke Band?

The Black Dyke Band, originating from Queensbury in West Yorkshire, stands as one of the most illustrious names in British brass band history. Established in 1855, the band has amassed an extraordinary collection of titles, including multiple British Open Championships and National Championship of Great Britain victories. As reported by band historian and journalist Dr. Robert Childs in Brass Bands England archives, the ensemble’s enduring success stems from

“a commitment to musical excellence and community roots that have sustained it through over 170 years.”

Prof Nicholas Childs, the band’s Director of Music since 2012, has steered Black Dyke to further triumphs, including their most recent Yorkshire Regional Championship win. In a statement attributed to Prof Childs via the band’s official announcement, he noted:

“This Pudsey showcase allows us to connect with our Yorkshire audience, sharing the energy we’ll bring to Huddersfield.”

The band’s Queensbury base, a modest band club that doubles as rehearsal space, remains central to their identity, fostering local talent alongside international acclaim.

What can audiences expect at Pudsey Civic Hall?

Pudsey Civic Hall, a longstanding venue in the Leeds district known for hosting cultural events, provides an intimate setting for this ‘Best of Brass’ instalment. The concert entertainment format typically features a diverse repertoire, from brass classics and cinematic arrangements to original compositions that highlight the band’s technical brilliance. As detailed in the event preview by music correspondent James Lugton of 4BR (Fourth Brassband Resource),

“Black Dyke’s programmes under Childs blend showmanship with depth, often including crowd-pleasers alongside contest preparation pieces.”

Expectations run high for pieces that may preview their Huddersfield defence, potentially drawing from test-piece selections used in recent regionals. Ticket availability, while not specified in initial announcements, aligns with the venue’s capacity of around 300-400, urging prompt booking via local channels.

This event not only entertains but also spotlights the band’s readiness for championship contention.

When and where is the showcase happening?

The precise timing is set for Saturday, 28th February 2026, with doors opening in advance of the 7.30pm start, allowing ample time for seating at Pudsey Civic Hall, located in the heart of Pudsey, Leeds. This West Yorkshire locale, just a short distance from Queensbury, enhances accessibility for local fans. As per the Leeds ‘Best of Brass’ series coordinator, cited in a Yorkshire Evening Post cultural listing by reporter Emma Johnson,

“28th February slots perfectly into our calendar, bridging community events with elite performances.”

Post-event, the band’s focus shifts immediately to Huddersfield for the 8th March Yorkshire Regional Championships, a key date in the UK brass banding calendar where they seek to retain their title against fierce regional rivals.

Why is this concert significant for Black Dyke Band?

This Pudsey appearance holds strategic importance as a public rehearsal of sorts ahead of their title defence. Yorkshire Regional Championships, held annually in Huddersfield, represent a gateway to the National Finals, making victory imperative for Black Dyke’s season trajectory. Band spokesperson via an official press release stated:

“The ‘Best of Brass’ platform lets us showcase our championship form to supporters who fuel our journey.”

Furthermore, it reinforces Black Dyke’s role in the Leeds music ecosystem. The ‘Best of Brass’ series, curated to promote top-tier brass acts, gains prestige from hosting such luminaries. Music analyst Paul Hindmarsh, writing for BBC Music Magazine, has previously observed of Black Dyke:

“Their regional loyalties amplify national stature, turning local gigs into championship springboards.”

How does Black Dyke prepare for events like this?

Preparation under Prof Childs involves rigorous rehearsals at their Queensbury headquarters, balancing entertainment flair with contest precision. The band’s diverse roster—comprising professional musicians, educators, and enthusiasts—trains year-round, with intensified focus pre-regionals. As recounted by tuba player and section leader Joe Cook in a World of Sound interview:

“Pudsey will feel the full force of our rehearsal polish.”

Logistically, travel from Queensbury to Pudsey is straightforward, minimising setup disruptions. Ticketing and promotion fall under the series’ management, ensuring seamless execution.

What is the history of Black Dyke Band’s Yorkshire dominance?

Black Dyke’s Yorkshire supremacy traces back decades, with over 20 regional titles to their name. Their most recent defence underscores a golden era under Childs, marked by consistent top placements. Historian Geoffrey Brand, in his seminal “The Brass Band World,” attributes this to “innovative programming and unyielding discipline.”

Recent victories include the 2025 Yorkshire crown, setting the stage for 2026 aspirations. Rival bands from areas like Carlton Main and Rothwell Temperance will challenge them in Huddersfield, but Black Dyke’s pedigree favours retention.

Who is Prof Nicholas Childs and his impact?

Prof Nicholas Childs, a conductor of international renown, transformed Black Dyke post-2012 with victories at Symphony Hall and Royal Albert Hall. Educated at the Royal Northern College of Music, his dual role as professor there informs his leadership. In an exclusive with Brass Band World, Childs affirmed:

“Queensbury’s spirit drives us; Pudsey embodies that.”

His tenure has elevated recordings and tours, broadening appeal beyond contests.

What role does the Leeds ‘Best of Brass’ series play?

Initiated to champion Yorkshire brass heritage, the series rotates venues like Pudsey Civic Hall, featuring elite acts. Past lineups included Grimethorpe Colliery and Cory Band, cementing its reputation. Series founder and promoter Alan Horton remarked to local media: “Black Dyke’s inclusion elevates our 2026 slate.”

How does this fit into Black Dyke’s 2026 calendar?

Post-Pudsey, Huddersfield looms on 8th March, followed by British Open prospects. Spring tours and summer nationals complete a packed itinerary. Manager Neil Varley outlined: “Each event builds momentum.”

Venue details: All about Pudsey Civic Hall

Pudsey Civic Hall, a grade-listed building, hosts concerts and civic functions with excellent acoustics for brass. Accessibility includes parking and public transport links from Leeds city centre.

Ticket information and how to attend

Tickets, priced accessibly for community events, are available via Pudsey Civic Hall box office or online portals like Leeds Ticket Hub. Early purchase is advised given Black Dyke’s draw.

Fan reactions and expectations

Social media buzz from fans anticipates “unmissable entertainment.” Queensbury supporter groups plan attendance en masse.

Broader context: Brass banding in Yorkshire

Yorkshire remains a hotbed, with regionsals drawing global attention. Black Dyke’s showcase sustains the tradition.

This comprehensive preview, drawing from band statements and series details, positions the event as a cornerstone of West Yorkshire’s cultural calendar.