Solid and sustainable progress has been made to secure the future of the fledgling national body of Welsh banding, according to its Chairman Iestyn Davies.

Milestone

Talking exclusively to 4BR, he revealed that its first milestone has been achieved, with the official launch of Brass Band Forum Wales (Fforwm Bandiau Press Cymru) set to take place at the Senedd of the National Assembly for Wales in Cardiff Bay on February 21st next year.

"We have received confirmation from the Presiding Officer of the National Assembly that we are able to utilise the iconic venue for a high profile launch," he said.

"That in itself is a significant sign of progress, but even more important has been the support and encouragement that has been forthcoming from all levels of banding both in Wales and beyond."

The strength of Welsh banding comes from its grass roots and we want to make sure our work is transparent and proactiveIestyn Davies

Further steps

Iestyn also revealed that the individual members of Forum will meet in the near future to implement further steps and to look at whether or not the Forum should formalise the structure of a sustainable national body for Welsh banding.

He added: "Since the decision to set up the body was made last month we have continued to take small but significant steps. We are committed to ensure that all levels of Welsh banding are fully represented. The Forum has clear aims and objectives and will ensure that Wales has a strong and purposeful presence in the broader banding community."

Website

"That progress will shortly see the setting up of an interactive website presence that will allow people to air their thoughts and opinions on all aspects of Welsh banding," he said.

"The strength of Welsh banding comes from its grass roots and we want to make sure our work is transparent and proactive."

Major role

Iestyn also revealed that Wales was also ready to play a major role on a national and international banding platform too.

"The Forum is committed to work with autonomous National bodies – both at home and abroad and to become an integral part of the European Brass Band Association. With continued unprecedented success at all contesting levels we believe Wales has an important role to play, and we will aim to ensure we do that in full."

Appointees

There are currently seven individual appointees on the Forum, headed by Iestyn Davies. He is joined by Gareth Ritter, Austin Davies, Graham Howe, Charles White, Pedr Roberts, Gwyn Evans and Alan F Williams.

"The support of these highly committed individuals has been essential to the growing success of the body. Each is playing an active role on a local level to support bands in their region."

Committed

Iestyn concluded. "Everyone associated with the Brass Band Forum Wales is fully committed to help provide a dynamic future for Welsh banding."