The chairman Bernard was first to deliver his report – it had been another memorable year for the band, and thanks was given to all the people who help the band in various ways. The highlight of the year was the return trip to France and Sandy, Andrea and Bob were thanked again for their efforts. The two conductors were thanked for hard work during the year and the band also benefits from the hard work of the trainers, treasurer and secretary. The Bands in the Park season continues to be very popular with local people.
Bill gave his own treasurer’s report next – it had been another straightforward year for the accounts despite the expenditure for the French trip happening at the end of the financial year. He was not unduly worried by the depletion of the accounts as some bands manage on a lot less. He thanked Pete for doing the instrument repairs at no extra cost, and to Lucy and Shelagh for helping with the accounts.
Gavin the musical director gave his report, highlighting the most memorable events at which the band had played – Christchurch Summer Fete, the concert in Saint Vincent du Lorouer, Malvern Special Families Silver Jubilee and the usual Priory Park event. He assessed his role as musical director and thanked Barbara and Nigel for helping to conduct the band at various times during the year.
The training band leader Sue has enjoyed the year and was pleased with the band’s progress and performance at a recent school assembly. There would hopefully be the introduction of new pieces for this coming year.
There was a break in the proceedings at this point for refreshments.
Four awards were then presented to the most improved senior and junior players, the player who contributes the most musically to the band, and the member who contributes most to the band non-musically. These were won for solo playing, good progress, organisation of music and helping at events.
The existing committee all decided to stand again (one person stepped down), 6 charities were proposed for the Christmas carol playing donation, and it was decided that everyone pays the one set amount of subscription unless they had a concessionary rate.
For any other business it was suggested that training band members sat in on the main band for a short session to introduce them to the different environment.
The meeting closed at 9.09 pm.