## **Annual General Meeting 2023** ## 18th May 2023 at 7.30pm Lower Maze Community Hall, Halftown Road **Present:** A Crawford, P Evans, G Thomas, S Gracey, S Irvine, A Carlisle, R McKee, R Humphreys, A Irvine, A McQuiggan, K Ramsay, C Johnston, D Johnson, G McLean, F Mitchell, A Mitchell, J Crockett, C Smith, R Simmons, E Watt, A Toole, S Clarke. **Apologies:** L Irvine, R Bell, Paul Johnston, Peter Johnston, J Johnston, T Wilson. ## **2022 AGM minutes:** Agreed ## **Chairman’s Report** Chairman A Crawford began by welcoming all members, noting new member S Clarke and also S McKee who was with the band for the NIBA contest in Armagh. Members were informed that B Moore has decided to step back from the band after discussions with both himself and Secretary P Evans. P Evans added that Bill is held in high esteem by everyone and will always be warmly welcomed back. The Chairman expressed thanks to the following: - Conductor A McQuiggan for his dedication and work over the last five years. - Secretary P Evans for her work around securing engagements which help to ensure the health of band finances. - G Thomas for his organisation of music and opening/lock up duties. - Those responsible for organising refreshments. - A Irvine for her work on the band’s policies. Chairman A Crawford referenced the band’s heavy Christmas 2022 programme and requested that where possible going forward, members try to manage availability within their sections to avoid difficulties. It was also noted that the band have now won three straight NIBA contests at Grade 3 and due to the association’s rules, will have to consider its next steps. ## **Secretary’s report** Secretary P Evans thanked members for their consistent attendance, adding that having seats full makes a real difference. She acknowledged B Moore for his wisdom and encouragement throughout his time with the band and also thanked the following: - L Irvine and D Johnson for stepping in to conduct the band in the absence of regular conductor A McQuiggan. - A McQuiggan for his continued dedication. - F Mitchell for his composition and arranging of music. - S Irvine and A Carlisle for their coordination of supper and to those who supply refreshments each week. ## **Treasurer’s report** Treasurer S Gracey detailed the year’s accounts to members and explained that the - accounts run on the calendar year (1st January 31st December). The breakdown was circulated to members in advance of the meeting via WhatsApp, with a closing balance of £14,686.32. S Gracey added that money spent on two Bb basses and waistcoats will be included in next year’s accounts. ## **Election of officers** A McQuiggan declared all positions vacant and current Chair A Crawford informed the band he would be standing down from his role. The following officers were elected: – – Chair **S Gracey** proposed by G McLean and seconded by P Evans. – – Secretary **P Evans** proposed by D Johnson and seconded by A Mitchell. – – Treasurer **A Carlisle** proposed by G McLean and seconded by A Crawford. R Humphreys and S Irvine both announced they would be standing down from their committee posts. The following committee members were elected: – **R McKee** proposed by R Humpreys and seconded by A Carlisle – **G Thomas** proposed by G McLean and seconded by S Gracey – **C Johnston** proposed by A Crawford and seconded by P Evans – **D Johnson** proposed by P Evans and seconded by A Carlisle – **A Mitchell** proposed by P Evans and seconded by A Crawford ## **General business** Outgoing chair A Crawford thanked members for their support of him in his post and paid tribute to the work of players and conductor A McQuiggan. Incoming chair S Gracey thanked A Crawford for stepping into the role at a difficult time for the band. Gifts were presented by P Evans on behalf of the band to A McQuiggan, S Gracey and L Irvine for conductorship of the band over the last year. G McLean requested that something be arranged to show the band’s appreciation for B Moore. Finally, P Evans invited members and their partners to a BBQ at her address on June 10th. ## **Awards** Conductor A McQuiggan stressed that selecting award winners was very difficult because everyone contributes in different ways. He commended the band for its contest result in Armagh and emphasised that members shouldn’t be alarmed by any move to Grade 2 given that the band has played pieces of that standard in the past. Awards were awarded to the following: – Soloist Cup **S Gracey** – Endeavour & Commitment Shield **G Thomas** – Most Improved Players **R Bell** and **J Crockett** – Dynamic Brass Bandsperson of the Year **P Evans** With no further business, the meeting was concluded.