This summer has seen a major development in the French band scene with the formation of the Federation of French Brass Bands (FBBF).

Council

The administrative council consists of two band presidents, three conductors and three players, and a secretariat was elected at the end of August.

Jacques Gaudet of Courtois has been elected president, with Philippe Gervais, conductor of Brass Band Normandie, as vice-president. The secretaries are Pascal Caraty, joint organiser of the Amboise contest, and Werner Duwe of Buffet Crampon.

The hope is that an organisation dedicated solely to brass bands will be able to put in place a development plan to serve the needs of French bands4BR

Function

Up until now brass bands were part of the French amateur music confederation (CMF), which represents everything from amateur orchestras, wind bands and choirs to accordion ensembles.

Its sole function has been to organise the French national contest.

The hope is that an organisation dedicated solely to brass bands will be able to put in place a development plan to serve the needs of French bands, currently estimated at around fifty and growing all the time.

With thanks to Roy Terry.