As part of Brass Bands England's ongoing series of proactive funding and guidance meetings, Liaison Officer Rachel Veitch-Straw recently visited Cheshire to meet up with National champion Foden’s and a cross section of local community based bands.

Opportunity

Rachel (above) told 4BR: "The Funding Network Meeting gives me the opportunity to meets bands face to face, share experiences and challenges, and to consider the kind of collaborations which are so attractive to funders."

At the meetings, bands receive information about local funding stream and organisations that can assist bands to pitch successful bids. There are details about small community funds, and how to access larger funds like the Grants for the Arts.

There is also an insight into more creative methods of fundraising, such as crowdfunding.

I found the information provided very useful, also the way it involved everyone in the room was helpful, so we all got an insight into what other bands priorities wereSteve Twemlow, Rode Hall Band

Well received

The Foden’s meeting was well received, with Chris Finnigan, Foden’s Vice President telling 4BR: "Rachel helped everyone with her know how and experience and her enthusiasm was infectious."

Steve Twemlow, of Rode Hall Band added: "I found the information provided very useful, also the way it involved everyone in the room was helpful, so we all got an insight into what other bands priorities were."

Further meetings are planned in West Yorkshire, Greater Manchester and Hertfordshire.