Following the news that Kapitol Promotions Ltd had decided not to participate in the organisation or formation of the proposed United Kingdom Brass Band Alliance, a statement has been released to 4BR from the Brass Band Working Summit Working Party.
It states:
"The working party established from the Brass Band Summit in July 2010 has worked towards creating a framework which will serve to secure a dynamic future for Brass Bands and Brass Band music throughout the United Kingdom.
The working party produced a consultation document in February 2011 following approval from the 2nd Brass Band Summit, inviting feedback from all interested parties.
The planned 3rd Summit on 2 July had been postponed to facilitate a consultation meeting with Regional Committees on that date, for which the working party had arranged a planning meeting on Friday 24 June.
Having actively participated in the working party for nearly 12 months, and fully supported proposals thus far, Philip Morris, on behalf of Kapitol Promotions Ltd, contacted his working party colleagues on 19 June, outlining the following statement:"
I can confirm that Kapitol Promotions Ltd will not be participating in the organisation or formation of the proposed UKBBA. Kapitol Promotions Ltd is an events management company whose function is the management and organisation of the National Brass Band Championships of Great Britain and to support the Regions.
Furthermore the seven Regional representatives at yesterday’s forum have asked me to inform you that they will not be participating in the UKBBA as they believe their only remit is to organise the Regional Championships and will not be sending a representative to the proposed meeting on 2 July.
The working party question the motives and wisdom of Philip Morris, Kapitol Promotions Ltd and the Regional Committees who have foregone the opportunity to further develop the structure of the proposed UKBBAWorking Party
"The members of the working party wish to express astonishment and dismay that, in spite of the many hours of work and preparation, they will not be afforded the opportunity to present and discuss their proposals with Regional Committees.
The working party question the motives and wisdom of Philip Morris, Kapitol Promotions Ltd and the Regional Committees who have foregone the opportunity to further develop the structure of the proposed UKBBA, in spite of the fact that a number of regions had previously indicated their willingness to meet.
Notwithstanding this, the working party restates its willingness and desire to hear from members of Regional Committees who may still wish to consult, and its determination to continue working towards finalised proposals for presentation to an open meeting in due course."