Opinions, some very strong, are now being aired as the pace of debate following Steven Mead’s outspoken views on standards of adjudication was aired after the British Open on the weekend.

17th place

The euphonium star conducted the Whitburn Band, who were placed 17th by judges David Read, William Relton and Michael Ball.

After the announcement of the results Steven Mead approached contest organiser Martin Mortimer to make his opinions heard on the stage of Symphony Hall.

Some hours later, an article entitled ‘Time for Change’ was published on his website in which he voiced what he saw as acute problems with current standards of adjudication.

the Association of Brass Band Adjudicators has issued two separate statements – the second of which has given their full support to the three adjudicators at the contest4BR

Two statements

Since that time, the Association of Brass Band Adjudicators has issued two separate statements – the second of which has given their full support to the three adjudicators at the contest.

The Steven Mead article has also seen written opinions concerning the matter appear on the 4BR Comments page from the likes of Bramwell Tovey, Artistic Director of the National Youth Brass Band of Great Britain amongst others.

4BR retrospectives:

4BRs own retrospective of the contest and postcard coverage can be read at:

http://www.4barsrest.com/articles/2009/1052c.asp

http://www.4barsrest.com/articles/2009/1052b.asp

4BR comments:

The 4BR comments can be read at:
http://www.4barsrest.com/comments/108.asp

Mead article:

Steven Mead’s article can be read at:
http://www.euphonium.net/home.php