Houston Brass Band Youth Programs
The Houston Brass Band is deeply committed to inspiring young musicians through a robust suite of educational initiatives designed to elevate technical skill and artistic expression. A cornerstone of our outreach is the Young Brass Soloist Competition, now celebrating a decade of excellence. This prestigious event brings together dozens of talented junior high and high school soloists from across the region to perform for a panel of world-class adjudicators. By providing a platform for competitive performance and offering the Senior Division winner the unique opportunity to solo with the full Houston Brass Band during our concert season, we foster the confidence and mastery required for the next stage of their musical journeys.
In our milestone 25th anniversary season, we are thrilled to announce the full reinstatement of our Youth Brass Band Camp this coming June. Led by our Executive Director of Youth Programs, the world-renowned Russell Gray, this intensive week-long experience offers students a dedicated environment to refine ensemble techniques and explore challenging repertoire under professional mentorship. Parallel to these elite training opportunities, HBB is proud to expand its reach to Title 1 schools and rural campuses, such as Wharton Junior and Senior High. Supported by grants from the Cullen and Mary Louise Dobson Foundations, our members provide specialized masterclasses and educational activities to underserved communities, ensuring that the rich tradition of British brass band music remains accessible to every aspiring musician in the Greater Houston area.
Russell Gray
Executive Director of Youth Programs
Solo Competition
Step into the spotlight and showcase your artistry! Our annual Solo Competition invites junior high and high school brass players from across the region to perform for world-class adjudicators, competing for trophies, cash prizes, and a chance to solo with the Houston Brass Band.
Now in its 11th year, this prestigious event provides young musicians with professional accompaniment and invaluable feedback to help them reach the next level of performance.
Youth Band Camp
Experience the power of the British brass band tradition at our intensive 3-day summer Youth Band Camp this coming June. Open to students from 8th to 12th grade, this immersive program offers a unique environment to refine ensemble techniques and master challenging repertoire under the mentorship of professional brass musicians.
It’s more than just a camp, it’s an opportunity to build technical skill, lasting friendships, and the confidence to lead on any stage.
Youth Outreach Programs
We believe music education should have no boundaries, which is why we continue to expand our reach to Title 1 schools and rural campuses throughout the Greater Houston area.
Through specialized masterclasses and hands-on workshops, our members bring the joy of brass music directly to students in underserved communities, providing the resources and inspiration they need to succeed in their own school band programs.