Oxford University Brass Band

Manager: William Holtham

Do you audition?

We hold informal auditions to determine seating, but you're guaranteed a place - anyone is welcome to come along to OUBB:)

What is the usual rehearsal schedule?

We rehearse every Sunday 8-10pm at the Schwarzman centre (there'll be someone to welcome you!)

What's the conductor like?

We have two wonderful student conductors Esme Harper and Felix Thomson are both music students from Oriel. Esme is continuing in this role from last year and has been fantastic, winning best student conductor at Unibrass 2025. Felix has been a key part of the band as a solo cornet player, and we look forward to working with him as a conductor!

When do you perform?

OUBB plays at least one concert every term, but also competes in UniBrass

Where can I buy tickets for the next concert?

Keep an eye on our socials!

Winners of UniBrass 2023 Shield Contest, the Oxford University Brass Band society (OUBB) is a full-sized student brass band based in central Oxford. The band was founded in 2005 and now has about 30 regular banders. They rehearse on Sunday evenings in the Schwarzman centre, and we perform termly concerts at prestigious venues throughout Oxford, including St John’s auditorium and even, that’s right, The Sheldonian. We also compete annually at the UniBrass competition, a musical and social highlight of the year. In 2025, we came fourth in the trophy section and we're the most entertaining band!

Recent concert programs have included some brass band “classics” including Barnard Castle and I daedalus (4th section test piece). Another recent highlight is Hydra, the award-winning student composition by Christian Goodwin.

Although the band is run primarily for students, anyone is welcome to join. Although the standard is high, the advantage of a brass band is that a large number of parts requiring different skill bases exist – meaning there is a seat for everyone (yes – even you!). Informal auditions are held at the start of each term to determine seats if necessary, but players are guaranteed a place whatever! They can also be arranged mid-term. We will also hold short auditions for any players wishing to hold a principal seat in the band.

We are a fun group with a focus on the family element which is central to brass-banding. Rehearsals are upbeat, friendly, and always include a trip to the pub afterwards for a chat! We play a diverse range of repertoire which keeps OUBB exciting. Our repertoire is challenging, but, with a variety of sections, everyone can get involved!