18/06/2026
MEET THE ADJUDICATOR 🎵
We are thrilled to announce that our adjudicator for this year’s March and Hymn Tune Contest John Doyle!
John Doyle is a highly respected British brass musician whose career spans performance, conducting, education, and adjudication. Renowned for his versatility, he is accomplished on cornet, flugel horn, soprano cornet, and trumpet, and is widely admired within the brass band community.
Originally from Lancashire, he developed his musical roots in the North West’s strong brass band tradition, demonstrating early talent that led to elite-level performance opportunities. He became a prominent figure through his long association with the internationally acclaimed Black D**e Band. During more than a decade with the band, he contributed to a period of major success, including victories at the National Brass Band Championships of Great Britain, the British Open, and the European Championships. His multi-instrumental expertise and musical insight helped maintain the band’s global reputation.
Alongside contesting, John has performed internationally, collaborating and recording with leading artists and ensembles, and appearing on television to promote brass music.
He has also made a significant impact as an educator, working with national youth ensembles and supporting bands and young musicians across the UK. Professionally, he serves as a Senior Leader and Head of Creative Faculty at a secondary school in Preston, where he champions the arts and expands creative opportunities for students.
As a respected adjudicator, he regularly judges major competitions across the UK and Europe. He has also achieved success as a conductor with bands such as Northop Silver and Milnrow, and currently serves as Associate Conductor of Leyland Band. His work as a composer and arranger further reflects his well-rounded musicianship.
In recent years, John has stepped back from full-time banding to focus on education and family, though he remains an influential figure in the brass band world.
📍 Darwen Market Square
⏰ 1pm
🎟️ No tickets needed
