One of Wales’s leading bands has withdrawn from current contesting following a dispute over its internal funding.

Not competing

The BTM Band has announced that it will not compete at the forthcoming Yeovil, Welsh Area and Grand Shield contests.

It is understood that the decision was made after agreement could not be met over playing members financial contributions — with the outcome leading to the exchange of heated e-mail correspondence, players asked to leave and resignations.

It is further understood that this has meant the band could not field a full complement of signed players to compete at the forthcoming contests.

Statement

In a statement from Chairman Jeff Hutcherson, it was clear where it was felt the problem lay — although this is fervently disputed by a number of players involved.

E-mail correspondence seen by 4BR has revealed differing view-points and opinions, whilst it has been confirmed that the dispute has resulted in the band dispensing with MD Dewi Griffiths, who had spearheaded their latest revival, which included a top 10 finish at last year's Grand Shield.

Subscription

Jeff Hutcherson stated: "Financial stability is crucial to the survival of many brass bands. Constitutionally, the BTM Band is a subscription paying band and has been since its formation in 1972.

Members of the band have historically shown their commitment and loyalty by their continued and absolute agreement to contribute. This has been expedited by a core group of players and band officers."

Refusal

He added: "There has been an influx of new players into the band in recent times including students of the Welsh College of Music & Drama.

The band is most grateful for the advantages that these players bring but it has also resulted in a refusal by many to agree to the rules of the band's constitution.

This has resulted in a number of players being asked to leave, which led to some significant resignations.

In the short term, BTM band will withdraw from the forthcoming Yeovil Entertainment Contest, Welsh Area and the Grand Shield."

The band is most grateful for the advantages that these players bring but it has also resulted in a refusal by many to agree to the rules of the band's constitutionBTM Band

Future

With the announcement of the withdrawal from forthcoming contests, Jeff Hutcherson pointed out that the future of the organisation now lies with its ensemble group and youngsters.

"The band will continue to rehearse and perform as an ensemble, BTM X Brass, whilst BTM Band: The Next Generation is a thriving and energetic band in its own right under the expert tuition of Mark Hutcherson.

This band has welcomed and adopted the constitution of the organisation leading to a strong bond and team ethic.

This will ensure the survival of the BTM Band and sustain financial stability for many years to come."