Here is a list of the top contests of 2011, measured in terms of 'strength of field' (using the BrassStats rankings system). All contests are categorised in accordance with the quality of the bands taking part, with each contest allocated a category from 1 (weakest) to 20 (strongest).

The top contests in 2011, with contest 'rating' category in brackets, were as follows:

1. National Championship (20), won by Brighouse & Rastrick
2. British Open (20), won by Cory
3. European Championship (18), won by Manger Musikklag
4. Brass in Concert (17), won by Leyland
5. English National (16), won by Black Dyke
6. Grand Shield (15), won by Reg Vardy
7. All England International Masters (15), won by Tredegar
8. Yorkshire Area (15), won by Brighouse & Rastrick
9. North West Area (13), won by Foden's
10. Butlins Mineworkers (13), won by Flowers
11. Scottish Open (13), won by Tongwynlais Temperance
12. Welsh Area (12), won by Cory
13. Yeovil Entertainment (12), won by Woodfalls
14. Senior Cup (11), won by Marsden Silver
15. Midlands Area (11), won by Virtuosi GUS

There was a total of 66 contests in 2011 that were deemed to be 'ranking' events.

2009 'top 10' is available here
2010 'top 10' is available here