The contest administrators of the Brass in Concert Championship have invited representatives of competing bands to examine the possibility of implementing improvements to enhance the presentation the leading entertainment event.

Past three years

Representatives of bands who have taken part in the contest over the past three years have been asked to attend a meeting at the BFBB National Office in Barnsley on 7th January to discuss possible ideas and proposals through which the contest administrators state the Festival Weekend, 'can be improved and developed’.

It is understood that the agenda will include discussions on the rules and adjudication, use of multimedia and lighting, awards and trophies, press and publicity, as well as a general introduction and presentation of objectives.

Support

Speaking in confidence to a number of band managers, conductors and players, 4BR has found overwhelming support for the proactive approach of the contest administrators led by Jackie & Paul Beere.

Most important

The letter sent to band representatives stated that the aim of the festival weekend ‘has been to recognise that players and conductors are the most important people on the day’, and that ‘it is vital to listen to the views of the bands and their representatives’.

One leading conductor told 4BR: "This is good news. Brass in Concert is a terrific event, and everyone sees it as a flagship competition. It does need to redefine itself though if it is to continue to lead the way in entertainment contesting."

The organisers do a brilliant job, and this shows that they are willing to listen to the bands. The contest does need to be tweaked and improved, so this is a welcome step in the right directionBand Manager

Brilliant job

Meanwhile, one Band Manager added: "The organisers do a brilliant job, and this shows that they are willing to listen to the bands. The contest does need to be tweaked and improved, so this is a welcome step in the right direction."

Speaking to the bands, 4BR found that concerns primarily surround the adjudication process, gala concert, participation fees and obligations, and the thorny question of what constitutes ‘entertainment’ itself.

Best bands

A prominent soloist added: "Hats off to Brass in Concert for this. It’s not often the performers get an input, so if they listen and act on the concerns the event will continue to attract the very best bands in the world."

4BR understands that the organisers will have already looked at some outline ideas at a regular administration meeting in early January, and whilst there will be no definitive outcome following the meeting on the 7th, any further proposals will be put to the bands well in advance of the 2012 event.