THE world-famous Grimethorpe Colliery Band said they are ‘proud’ to be a founding member of a new forum which will help shape the future of the UK brass band movement.
The UK Leading Bands Forum met for the first time earlier this month in Birmingham.
Attended by representatives from 15 of the 16 founding member bands which are ranked in the top 16 in the UK, the meeting focussed on discussions around the purpose of the group and its remit to work in collaboration with existing organisations.
The importance of building stronger banding connections and communities throughout all the sections was discussed and a strategy will be developed to action this point.
A spokesperson for the group said: “The meeting, and the spirit in which it was held, felt like a real breath of fresh air.
“It was inspiring to have so many bands in attendance, but unlike a contest day where we are all locked in friendly rivalry, we were able to talk open-mindedly, honestly and collaboratively which gave a real sense of community, solidarity and togetherness between us all.
“We are very hopeful that our group can do much good in building a stronger future for banding.”
