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Almost every band is autonomous,
there is no set way in which a band is structured or organised. Most have
a small committee comprising of a band master/captain/sergeant (usually
also the Chairperson), secretary and treasurer. This group of members are
entrusted with the smooth day-to-day running of the band and its
activities such as the organisation of its parade.
It must always be remembered that
essentially bands are a hobby and as such only receive that time which is
available and it is therefore difficult to instil a more business like
approach to their organisation. In a recent article in To The Beat Of The
Drum one bandmaster commented that it was a thankless task and was like
running a small business. Certainly in recent years we have seen a more
professional approach to the make-up of a bands structures. An adoption of
constitutions and the completion of audited accounts for Annual General
Meetings are now commonplace.
It is odd for a bands leadership to
dramatically change from one year to another. Continuity is a usual factor
and many bandmasters hold that position for as long as they are willing to
do it.
Even though the committee is
entrusted with the running of the band, most major decisions are taken
with a vote from the whole membership. Such decisions include options on
new uniforms, instruments, parades etc. |
