• For the purchase of musical instruments for running Children's Workshops. The instruments are available by prior arrangement for use for that purpose by any 'suitably-qualified' BBMA member or institution.
• For the purchase of office equipment. This award was justified on the basis of the projected money saved over a 5-year period. The equipment includes: three FAX machines; an IBM-compatible PC for desktop publishing, complete with software; a photocopier; overhead projector; an A4-sized laminator and several other more minor items such as a 'flip-chart' holder.

So there you are - if you're already a member then start planning ways of making use of whatever you can, and if you're not a member, well....

MIKE PRESTON THE SECRETARY of the BBMA, has received several offers of help in running the BBMA. However he hasn't received any nominations for any Committee positions (including that of Secretary!) but notably that of Chairman. But the AGM isn't until April - it will take place during the Sore Fingers Week - ample time for nothing to happen as apathy strikes once more.

ALTHOUGH JOHN SHELDON has resigned with effect from the AGM, he will in fact be chairing the AGM.

MIKE PRESTON REPORTS that the Sore Fingers Week is almost fully booked up and will probably return a profit of around £500 to the BBMA.

Please join the BBMA!!!

THE BBMA IS ESSENTIAL for the development of Bluegrass nationally. Membership is only £15 individual, £20 family (with pensioner/ unemployed discounts) and this includes 4 copies per annum of British Bluegrass News! You can get good reductions (usually 10%) on festival prices (except Ironbridge) in addition to the often good 'early booking' discounts, so now is the time to join before the season gets under way! You can also get discounts off many things such as CDs, tapes, videos, books, etc. Please write or 'phone for a membership form.

Derek Brandon, BBMA North West Area Rep

Updated 23rd Jan 1999