The newly formed Brass Band Forum Wales — Fforwm Bandiau Pres Cymru is facing its first political challenge from the National Assembly in Cardiff Bay.

Review

The Assembly is currently reviewing participation in the arts in the Principality through its Communities, Equality and Local Government Committee.

The committee is undertaking an inquiry into participation in the arts and is seeking to hear representation from all cultural organisations in Waels..

Opportunity

Forum Chairman, Iestyn Davies sees it as an immediate opportunity to put forward a strong case for Welsh banding at a time when there is a real concern over budget cuts which may directly impinge on the role of the voluntary arts sector — which includeds brass bands in local communities.

The timing of this review is good for banding as it follows the succesful launch of the Forum at the Senedd of the National Assembly. Brass banding is very much on the politcal agenda in Wales at presentIestyn Davies

Good timing

Iestyn told 4BR: "The timing of this review is good for banding as it follows the succesful launch of the Forum at the Senedd of the National Assembly. Brass banding is very much on the politcal agenda in Wales at present."

He added: "It's important that band representatives, players and supporters take stock of what is being proposed and we will be asking the Committee to take evidence directly from the Forum during one of its sessions."