The successful use of new on-line technology to help a brass band increase their artistic profile could well gain a prestigious Making Music Award later this year.
Amanda Drury is being nominated by City of Lincoln Band for 'The President' Award' — voted on by the general public, and recognises her lead in using social media technology to enhance the band's profile and success.
Revolutionised
In the nomination summary the bands stated: "Prior to Amanda joining the band, we had not thought about using technology, promotion, networking and PR to raise the profile of the band and to secure its future.
It has revolutionised how we work. She has designed a new website and set up social media accounts as well as ensuring that photos and videos are taken of each event for promotion purposes."
Outside the box
They added: "She has networked with groups not previously interested in hiring a brass band and, as a result, we have had some very prestigious and high profile gigs. This year alone she got us on Radio 4 twice including playing live on the Money Box programme, serenading the runners on the Lincoln 10k route and being a focal point on the city's Ice Sculpture trail.
This 'outside the box' thinking has opened up new possibilities for the band and as well as new audiences."
Making Music Awards
The annual Making Music Awards showcase the talent and innovation of leisure-time music groups across the UK and the people who work with them. The presentations to the various award winners will be made on Wednesday, 18th September.
The shortlists and winners are decided by panels of experts drawn from across the music sector. The winner for the President's Award will be chosen by public vote.
This year alone she got us on Radio 4 twice including playing live on the Money Box programme, serenading the runners on the Lincoln 10k route and being a focal point on the city's Ice Sculpture trailCity of Lincoln Band
Platform
Speaking about the awards, Alison Reeves, Deputy CEO said: "Reading about the dedication, passion and ingenuity of our members is inspiring. The contribution leisure-time music makes to the musical ecology of the UK is vital and vibrant, but often goes un-noticed outside their own communities.
The awards give us the opportunity to platform the musicians and volunteers who keep music so dynamic in every corner of the UK"
