Couch to Concert 2026!
New Year, New Musical you!

Following the success of our first Couch to Concert programme which saw 22 individuals sign up for our exciting programme, Downshire Brass is delighted to announce the second programme for adult beginner brass players which will launch in January 2026.

This 12-week programme is designed to introduce participants to the joy of making music together in a brass band setting. Participants must be over 21 and have some prior musical experience—though not necessarily on a brass instrument.

Who are we hoping will sign up?
Perhaps you played music at school, in a band, or in a choir—and for one reason or another, life got in the way. Maybe you’ve always regretted giving it up. Now’s your chance to rediscover your love of music!

This programme, designed by the band’s musical director, Professor Michael Alcorn, is designed to get you started (or restarted) on your musical journey. Over 12 weeks, you’ll progress from the first steps of playing in a brass group to performing in your first concert. The programme is supported by online learning materials and examples to help you with the journey to the first concert.

Sessions begin in January and will run on Wednesday evenings from 6:30pm to 7:45pm for 12 weeks. The rehearsals will take place at Downshire’s band hall in Belvoir Park, Belfast.

Click here to find answers to some frequently asked questions about the programme.

Sign-up Below for more information about the programme. We will get back in touch with everyone before the end of 2025 with an update on next steps.