Bandstand Marathon – Communities in Tune
Now in its fifth year, Bandstand Marathon will take place on Sunday 9 September 2012, and aims to run 500 community music events across the country.
This will coincide with the final day of the Paralympics, and has been chosen as one of the closing events for the London 2012 Festival.
The Bandstand Marathon is also part of the Cultural Olympiad, which aims to create a legacy post-2012 by showcasing local amateur talent and boosting participation in community-led musical celebration.
The aim is to get as many performances as possible to take place simultaneously across the UK in local parks, town centres or other public places.
Truly inclusive event
All genres of music will be represented and participants will be of all ages and backgrounds, making it a truly inclusive event which creates help a real sense of community.
This is a great way to bring communities together through music to celebrate and encourage community participation.
Local authorities have a crucial role to play in enabling Bandstand Marathon to take place in their local area by making venues available, publicising the evnt and encouraging local people to get involved – either by performing themselves or enjoying the show.
Like to get involved?
If you haven’t been involved in a previous event, there’s lots of help available from organisers Superact and Making Music.
If you wish to host an event, all you need to do is register on the Bandstand Marathon website by 1 April 2012 and tell them which venue or venues you would like to feature.
They will get in touch with you to tell you about the range of options and support available to make sure your event is a success.
For help and more information, contact Sarah Hughes, Community Engagement Manager, Central Bedfordshire Council on 0300 300 6166.