Norwegian National champion Eikanger-Bjørsvik recently initiated a ground breaking national 'Brass Forum' in Bergen.

All ten of the nation’s Elite Division bands, together with a host of other bands from across the country discussed a variety of topics to help set the long term agenda for brass banding in the country.

In depth

In depth discussions and presentations included an evaluation of the current Norwegian Championships, media and marketing, fundraising, sponsorship and financial planning, concert and festival promotions, developing youth participation and even what it meant to play in a brass band in the 21st century in Norway.

Sharing experiences

Eikanger-Bjørsvik Vice Chairman, Viggo Bjørge told 4BR: "We strongly believe that sharing experiences and viewpoints is the only way forward. Norway has a strong brass band movement, but to set new targets for the future, the leading bands need to meet to learn from each other and to share successes."

We strongly believe that sharing experiences and viewpoints is the only way forwardViggo Bjørge

Joint advice

He added: "It’s also important to be in a position to give some joint advice to the Norwegian Band Federation in how to improve the organization of the Championships and assist each other in promoting banding to the public.

It was a very fruitful and encouraging event that saw everyone work together for the long term benefit of Norwegian banding."