THE PHOENIX WINDBAND: ANNUAL REPORT 2006-07 As a member of the evening class, you are automatically a member of the Phoenix Windband. The Phoenix Windband is an association, formed in July 1999 by members of the SCOLA Friday wind and brass band evening class. The original objective was to provide a vehicle for a successful application for lottery funding to obtain sheet music, which had been a major difficulty for the evening class in the early years, subsidise the first Wychcroft weekend and buy the drum kit. Its existence has enabled us to buy some other equipment, has enabled us to maintain a bank account and thus handle the financial aspects of Wychcroft and of buying music, and has provided opportunities for the class to play in public. In the past year we have continued to meet as a SCOLA evening class and, under Paul's leadership, we have made great progress as an ensemble. We are so fortunate to have a leader of Paul's experience and ability. Since this time last year we have played at the Chipstead fete, at our Christmas and summer parties, and in Sutton town centre. The feedback on all these performances was very positive. We held another excellent Wychcroft weekend in January and had one unusual social event when a group from the band went to see "Porgy and Bess" together last February. Looking ahead, we have financial reserves and our need to purchase new music has diminished as Paul and Pam have their own library. We have not followed up the suggestion that, with Miranda's help, we make a recording, and might re-consider this next term. Other suggestions are welcome, particularly concerning opportunities to play at events. The main threat to the band, at present, is the policies of SCOLA towards non-vocational courses and the consequent steep increase in fees, which may deter some members from re-joining next year. The SCOLA Big Band has declared UDI and left SCOLA, something to which the College has reacted with surprising indifference. Already some members are asking if we should follow suit. This would be a big step and require a lot of thought, but perhaps might be discussed next year. Since we formed the association, I have been the chair (the responsibility just involves writing this report every year), Howard has been secretary, Neil treasurer and Ray was organiser. We would be very happy to involve anyone else who is interested. I would like to express our thanks to Paul, also to Pam for organising the music, to Neil and Howard for the organisation of the Wychcroft weekend, to Neil for handling the money, to Roger for maintaining the website (www.phoenixband.org.uk), and to every member of the class for making Friday evenings so enjoyable. RICHARD CLIFTON