North American Brass Band Association (NABBA)

“Brass Bands are one of the world’s most wide spread forms of amateur music performance” OUR STORY The North American Brass Band Association (NABBA) is an organization dedicated to the promotion and development of the British-style brass band movement in North America. With bands and musicians covering 15 states and Canada as well as ranging from school-age youth to senior citizens, NABBA has become a true force in the arena of amateur musicians and brass banding across North America and across the world. Formed in 1983, its Articles of Incorporation state NABBA has been formed to: Sponsor and hold local, state, regional, national and international contests for the purpose of improving the performing standards and abilities of amateur British-type brass bands. Foster, promote and otherwise encourage the establishment, growth and development of amateur and professional British-type brass bands throughout the United States and Canada. Support and help further the music education of its members and to advance the public’s appreciation of British-type brass bands. Serve as a resource for musical and organizational assistance to amateur British-type brass bands throughout North America. There are presently several hundred brass bands in North America, many affiliated with NABBA, and it is not only exciting to see the tradition making a return, but also such a valuable and unique contribution to the rich musical heritage of this country. A Brass Band as the term is used on the NABBA Home Page refers to a British style Brass Band which uses instrumentation that was standardized in the later part of the last century. The Standard instrumentation for a British Brass Band is 1 Eb Soprano Cornet 9 Bb Cornets 1 Bb Flugelhorn 3 Eb Tenor Horns 2 Bb Baritones (Small Bore) 2 Euphoniums 2 Bb Tenor Trombones (Small Bore) 1 Bass Trombone (Big Bore) 2 EEb Basses 2 BBb Basses 3 Percussionists