I have just been informed that the Band friend of ours, the Bedford Town Band, has been presented by a Noise Abatement Notice, which will be banning them from practicing in their present Band Room. The band has just visited Malta and superbly represented the UK in our country. We, here in Malta do not even think about something similar to occur. Being an organization promoting culture (music, arts, banding) and Maltese traditions (Our traditional Maltese Festa of Santa Maria), we get plenty of backing up in such problems. So, I ask; "Why that should happen in the UK?"
In such situation, hoping to be of help to these good friends of ours, I would like to place some appeals:
(1). To all lovers of Brass Banding in the UK:
Please stand up and try doing something in this situation. If similar problems begin/continue to arise within UK Brass Bands, that would mean a slow death for Brass Bands in the UK !! Would you agree with that? The Bedford Town Band at this moment ended up with no place where to rehearse. What would be the end if they will not find a solution for this?
(2). To authorities concerned:
You must help such organizations. They are promoting culture in your country. With the Bedford Town Band here in Malta we have met a good number of youths, all eager to learn music and all true lovers of art. Indirectly, Brass Bands could be a good place, helping to keep youths and next generations away from modern temptations which would ruin their lives. We, lovers of Banding in Malta have set up a motto to promote music: "Drugs ruin your mind and health. Music opens your mind and gives you a good scope for your life !"
(3). All those near Bedford Town who might help:
If you can help by providing some temporary practicing place for the Bedford Town Band, please contact immediately Sue Blunt, Band Secretary (email: sue.blunt@ntlworld.com ). Rest assured that you will be proud about helping the Best Brass Band in your area !!
Hope these comments from Malta will help.
Thanks to all
Alfred Galea
International Relations
Society of Saint Mary and King George V Band,
Mqabba, Malta.