The Brass Band Archive
July 15, 2011
The Brass Band Archive is situated on the first floor of Windsor House, 232 Scholes, WIGAN Lancashire WN1 3NH. The Archive, which is a unique collection of brass band artefacts and memorabilia, has been established by Mr Walter Ainscough (founder) and Mr Alan Marsh as a point of reference and heritage for the banding community. The Archive began as a collection of programmes and music from the Belle Vue, September contests. The Archive was housed for sometime in a spare room in the Doyen Centre, shared by Doyen Recordings and Fred Rhodes Ltd in Oldham Lancashire.
A meeting at the Brass Band Archive took place on Friday 8th July 2011. The meeting considered a review of the Archive, prepared for the British Federation of Brass Bands earlier this year, together with a declaration of trust and the current copy of the Archive rules. Those around the table were asked what they hoped the meeting would achieve. Comments included:
Finding a way forward for the future of the Archive
Increased attendance at the Archive
A secure future for the Archive
It was noted that the Archive’s services had seen an increased access since the Brass Band Archive website had been activated; enquires had been received from around the world. The Brass Band Archive is unique and unparalleled in the brass band sector. It is an important legacy for British heritage and brass bands around the world. Those at the meeting felt it is incumbent on the Trustees and in particular BFBB to ensure that it can continue being enjoyed by generations to come.
The meeting also discussed a programme of activities/exhibitions, the Archive currently takes an exhibition to the Butlins Contest annually and has shown elsewhere; the meeting was keen to expand this aspect of The Archives’ work. An educational programme was also discussed as part of future plans for the Archive.
Whilst talking about the make-up of the meeting it was agreed to seek new members, who are not trustees of the Archive, to attend the next meeting. Anyone interested should contact me, Philip Watson, on 07803 147100 or at devofficer@bfbb.co.uk – you will be made most welcome. The next meeting will be held at the Brass Band Archive on Wednesday, 12th October 2011 at 10:00 a.m.; however a meeting of the Trustees is planned before that date.
