The Chairman and Executive of ABBA has made the following annoucnement in respect to the performance of percussion at the 2008 Regional Championships.

Statement

Further to our Annual General Meeting of yesterday 30.12.2007 where many adjudicators voiced their concerns and opinions over the playing of percussion parts in contests, especially within the lower sections. The Association of Brass Band Adjudicators wishes to make the following announcement.

Whilst we understand there may be a shortage of percussionists, or lack of access to percussion equipment for rehearsal purposes, we do expect the percussion parts to be played as per the score, unless otherwise directedABBA

Shortage

"Whilst we understand there may be a shortage of percussionists, or lack of access to percussion equipment for rehearsal purposes, we do expect the percussion parts to be played as per the score, unless otherwise directed.

We do suggest that bands should seek the guidance and assurance from the respective bodies, as to who may or who may not play percussion; and how many performers are allowed on stage for a contest performance.

We respectfully point out to all bands, especially to lower section bands, that there are many other pit-falls and problems on contest pieces they have to overcome, and the use, or lack of use of percussion, is not necessarily the deciding factor of prize winning performances."

Derek Broadbent (Chairman)