John Sullivan, the President of the Brass Band Association of New Zealand (BBANZ) has taken the opportunity to reflect on a year that has passed in the city of Christchurch — where it is hoped the New Zealand National Championships will take place in July.

12 months ago the city was coming to terms with the murder of 51 worshipers in two local mosques whilst today it is dealing with the effects of the worldwide Coronavirus pandemic.

Difficult decisions

In his address in the latest issue of the 'Mouthpiece', the official journal of the BBANZ, he touched on both subjects — from the "total shock we all felt that an act of such hate could happen in our quiet little country"to the sympathy that now "goes to those who are already suffering from the significant impacts to hospitality, tourism and other industries".

He stated that many opinions had been received in respect to the hosting of the 2020 National Championships — ones that he said, "reinforces the difficulty in making decisions in a rapidly changing environment."

Oldest National

At present the 2020 Festival of Brass will still take place. The New Zealand Championships are the oldest in the banding world — the first event taking place in Christchurch in 1880. Since 1890, the contest has only been cancelled due to the two World Wars and an earthquake that occurred in Napier in 1931.

Whilst John acknowledged that this meant great difficulties for those who will have to make the ultimate decision he felt that "at a time like this as it is during adverse conditions that the true qualities of people come to the fore."

The New Zealand Championships are the oldest in the banding world — the first event taking place in Christchurch in 1880. Since 1890, the contest has only been cancelled due to the two World Wars and an earthquake that occurred in Napier in 19314BR

Tribute

He paid tribute to what he called the "highly talented and dedicated committee and Executive Officer who are all passionate about brass banding and are focused on trying to do the right thing despite the personal challenges they, like all of us, are facing."

He felt that by staying in clear communication, the immediate future will show to the world a New Zealand banding movement that "genuinely cares for its fellow members".

To find out more about the Mouthpiece magazine, go to: https://www.brassbanz.org.nz/page/mouthpiece/