The newly formed Parliamentary Committee on brass bands is gaining pace, with its second meeting taking place earlier this month in the Houses of Parliament.

Attendance

The British Federation of Brass Band’s Development Officer Philip Watson was in attendance along with Chairman, Robert Morgan MBE and Treasurer, Nigel Morgan, who were invited to make presentations.

The group’s Chairman, Jeff Ennis, MP for Barnsley & Mexborough who welcomed a good gathering of MPs and members of the House of Lords.

Support and hard work

With the support of the parliamentary group and the co-operation and hard work of the BFBB, new doors are being opened for the brass band movement, including possible further funding for brass bands from the Arts Council.

The opportunity given to us by Jeff Ennis is one to be nurtured during the next 12 months and bandsmen and women throughout the UK are urged to encourage their MPs to become a member of the groupRobert Morgan MBE

Further funding application

Robert Morgan explained to the delegation that following advice from Arts Council Yorkshire and a meeting organised by Jeff Ennis, the BFBB were now putting together an application for further funding to engage another full time employee to liaise with all the regional arts regions and to assist bands with the preparation of lottery applications.

Arts Council money is available for bands and bands need to progress applications next year.

Question the BBC

The meeting decided that next it was a good time to question the BBC over its support of bands and it is planned that a delegation from the parliamentary group led by Jeff Ennis, will question the BBC on its input to brass bands and support from the BFBB’s member bands will be gained as discussions continue.

Further meetings of the parliamentary group will take place in the next 12 months along with a possible concert to showcase bands in Portcullis House.

Excellent meeting

Commenting on the success of the meeting, Robert Morgan said: "This was an excellent meeting and an opportunity for the BFBB to present a united brass band voice to the all parliamentary group.

"I do feel that this group of influential people can open some doors for us; Arts Council first, the BBC next! The opportunity given to us by Jeff Ennis is one to be nurtured during the next 12 months and bandsmen and women throughout the UK are urged to encourage their MPs to become a member of the group."