Music organisation Drum and Brass is part of the local and national conversation about community music and inclusion. Based in Leicester and Cumbria we have a vision to change the world by doing music differently. These podcasts spotlight the voices of people involved - music practitioners, learners, supporters and partners. To find out more, visit our website www.drumandbrass.co.uk
Raven and Julie open the Brass for All series with an honest chat about inclusion in brass bands — who gets to play, what barriers still exist, and how bands can better reflect their communities. From accessibility to representation, they explore why inclusion starts with listening and small changes. Join the conversation in the Brass for All Facebook group and help make brass banding truly for everyone.Long summary:
In this episode, Raven and Julie kick off the Brass for All series — a year-long conversation exploring what inclusion really means in the world of brass bands.
They discuss the roots of brass banding as a working-class movement “for everybody,” and question whether that spirit has been lost over time. The conversation touches on barriers to participation — from accessibility and representation to confidence and tradition — and looks at how bands can rebuild connections with their communities.
Key themes include:
The importance of conversation as the first step toward change
Representation matters: “If you don’t see yourself in a band, you won’t join.”
Breaking down barriers around disability, gender, class, and race
Practical inclusion ideas – from coloured paper music parts to hearing loops and layout adjustments
Listening culture: why inclusion starts with asking, not assuming
Brass bands and community identity – how to reflect the diversity of modern life
The power of small actions and why genuine change takes time
The hosts invite listeners to join the discussion in the Brass for All Facebook group — a safe, open space for sharing experiences, anonymously if preferred.
As Raven says, “Inclusion isn’t about changing who you are to fit in. It’s about creating space where everyone feels they belong.”
28 Sept 2024
SOUNDS OF... BRASS AT THE CASTLE - EVALUATION
🎧 New Podcast Episode Alert! 🎧Tune in to the latest episode of "Sounds of..." by Drum and Brass where we dive deep into the success of Brass at the Castle! 🎺🏰In this special episode, we explore how this incredible event brought brass music to new audiences and celebrated the beauty of the genre. Hear from our insightful speakers:✨ Beth Lambert - Brass Bands England evaluator✨ Claudi Hayward - Outreach worker for Penrith and Eden Refugee Network✨ Andy Kershaw - Tuba player and conducting works...
25 Jun 2024
SOUNDS OF... BEING INCLUSIVE
The meeting began with a discussion on the organisation's mission and inclusion efforts, considering sharpening the mission statement to enhance inclusivity in music making and mental health support for marginalised communities. Julie and Davina discussed challenges in including diverse members in Drum and Brass's core mission, emphasising the need for safe and inclusive spaces. The conversation also touched on community music, hierarchical systems, and the lack of diversity in music therapy and education. Participants highlighted the importance of inclusivity in music spaces, addressing the lack of representation for marginalised communities in classical music. Concerns were raised about the lack of diversity in music therapy and education, advocating for more inclusive practices. The meeting also covered challenges faced in band competitions, the importance of parental support in music education, and efforts to promote diversity and inclusion within brass bands. Discussions on music education emphasised the need for inclusivity and diversity in music programs, with a decision to focus on growing young musicians and seeking funding for inclusive practices. The meeting concluded with a focus on reviewing the organisation's diversity and inclusion policy, prioritising anti-racism work to enhance diversity within the music community.
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