An argument over one of the great contesting traditions of Australian banding is set to become a ‘National’ issue in the coming months.

Motion

4BR understands that State banding associations around Australia will be asked to vote on a motion put forward by the Victorian delegate Michael Walker that all bands – both concert and brass — must take part in the marching discipline at their National Championships.

Exempt

At present only Open Grade brass bands are required to take part in the marching element: For all other categories, marching in the Parade of Bands has been optional

It is understood that the Victorian delegates believe this to be both unfair and discriminatory, asking why one group should be compelled to participate in the Parade of Bands, as specifically described, to promote the Championships, when the other groups of participants can simply watch on as passive spectators.

At present only Open Grade brass bands are required to take part in the marching element: For all other categories, marching in the Parade of Bands has been optional4BR

Juniors

The Victorian Delegates are also posing the question why Junior Brass Bands are not required to participate either – a situation they believe can see players up to the age of 19 never being required to take part in the marching discipline.

Enhance

One strand of the Victorian argument is that with concert bands of up to 70 players, they believe it would enhance the presentational and possibly commercial promotion of the championships if they were to participate.