The Bagpipe Society

From the Chairman

I need to report on two resignations from the committee. Firstly, George Swallow. He writes:

“I regret that owing to my rapidly failing health, I have been obliged to stand down as Treasurer and Membership Secretary. Michael Ross has taken over but I shall remain as a committee member without portfolio until the handover is complete.”

George took over the post in 2015, having, some might say, rashly volunteered to manipulate our end of year accounts into a more understandable form some years previously. We have all greatly appreciated his impressive efficiency and diligence and we now have in place a well-structured membership renewal system that should stand us in good stead for many years to come. In addition, in committee discussions, he has always challenged old assumptions with a forensic approach that has almost invariably resulted in changes for the better. Thank you George for all you have done for us.

Secondly, Tom Hughes has decided to resign after seven years on the committee, six as Education Officer. He writes: “I’ve always felt it’s important to be honest about what you can do. My work pressures have reduced my time available and opportunities to lead education sessions, meaning it no longer feels right for me to occupy the role of Education Officer, which deserves someone who can give it the attention I used to be able to give. I look forward to seeing everyone again though and wish the committee all the best, it’s been fun.”

Tom created the role of Education Officer from scratch and he has done a fantastic job of raising the profile of the bagpipes in general and the Society in particular in the wider community, most notably in schools and “Meet the Bagpipe” sessions at various festivals. He has been most generous with his time, expertise and enthusiasm. Thanks for all you have contributed and achieved.

This leaves vacancies on the Committee and we would very much like to recruit at least two new committee members. You do not need to sign up for any particular responsibility. We are mostly looking for fresh ideas and perspectives and after that it is up to you as to how involved you wish to be. If you think you would like to learn more, or indeed volunteer, then please contact me: info@bagpipesociety.org.uk

One of the topics that the committee discusses are funding applications and I am pleased to report that the number of applications are – finally – increasing! We welcome all bids, but you need to be aware that the pot is limited. Notionally, we are looking at a cumulative annual allocation of no more than £2000 pa, depending on the state of our balance sheet, and we would aim to distribute this as widely as possible for maximum impact whilst adhering to our aims as a Society: http://www.bagpipesociety.org.uk/society/about/

Please get in touch if you want to discuss a potential application.