4BR has been informed that further progress has been made in the setting up of the new National body to represent Welsh banding, following the adoption of a formal constitution at a meeting in Cardiff on the weekend.

Robust

With the official launch set to take place at the Senedd of the National Assembly for Wales in Cardiff Bay on February 21st next year, the final details involved in setting up the body were agreed by the current Brass Band Forum Wales (Fforwm Bandiau Press Cymru) members.

Flexible

Chairman Iestyn Davies believes the latest move has provided a robust foundation from which the body can now develop.

"The constitution provides a flexible framework that we hope will encourage transparency and co-operation," he said.

"The structure will enable the members to respond to the needs and views of those involved in all aspects of Welsh banding – from grass root to Elite level."

With the imminent launch of an interactive website, Iestyn believes those needs and views will be forthcoming. "Every person who joins the website will become a member of the organisation and their views will be taken into account. We want to be able to respond quickly and effectively to ensure we make solid progress."

The structure will enable the members to respond to the needs and views of those involved in all aspects of Welsh banding – from grass root to Elite levelIestyn Davies

Commission

Iestyn revealed that a series of reports has been commissioned to be presented to its next meeting to ensure the Forum has a very clear picture of what he calls 'the current state of the Welsh banding nation.'

"We are determined to know exactly where we start from as a body," he added.

"We are ambitious, but also realistic about what can be achieved. The amount of co-operation that has been shown from other organisations makes me certain that the progress already made has been dynamic and lasting."

Leading support

Iestyn is delighted that a number of leading individuals have already shown their support by pledging donations to help with costs such as providing financial support for the three Welsh representatives for the European Youth Band in Rotterdam next year.

He added: "The response to the setting up of Brass Band Forum Wales (Fforwm Bandiau Press Cymru) has been remarkable in such a short space of time, but we are always willing to accept help and financial support from those who wish to see Wales at the forefront of world banding."

Donations

Those wishing to help with a financial donation can contact:
Austin Davies
Treasurer
Brass Band Forum Wales (Fforwm Bandiau Press Cymru)
1, Penrhiwfer Road
Tonyrefail
Mid Glamorgan
CF39 8EY

Tel: 07779609153
Email: austin55@hotmail.co.uk

Cheques payable to: Brass Band Forum Wales

Further details concerning the formation of the new national body can be found at: http://www.4barsrest.com/news/detail.asp?id=14164