Fantasy Orchestra (Bristol) Annual General Meeting
Thursday 16th July 2015 Kuumba Centre, Hepburn Road, Bristol
Present
Lisa Muller (Chair), Jesse D Vernon, Steve Knight, Camille Heste, Mark Stanley, Nicky Gravestock, Ruth Essex, Jessica Bensted, Steve Hawker, Jake Pearce, Melanie Wickham, Jonnie Raynes (Minutes), Nick Riddle, Georgina Lowe, Ceri Daniels, Ole Rudd, Rich Green, Dave Finch, Kathleen Reeves, Shanti Sherson
1. Welcome
LM welcomed all the meeting and explained that a formal AGM is required by the constitution of the Fantasy Orchestra. As this was the first AGM, there were no previous minutes.
2. Review
JDV reviewed the successes of the last year, with the increase in repertoire, number of gigs and establishing the orchestra as an autonomous entity.
3. Finance
MS circulated summary accounts for the period 6/4/2014 – 16/7/2015. He noted that these were not fully reconciled. Total income was £13446.35. Total expenditure £13007.58. It was noted that a small surplus had been generated, due to the performance fees. It was noted that rehearsals run at a small loss, and this was largely due to the orchestra.
It was agreed to increase the fee paid to rehearsal leaders from £30 to £35 per session.
It was agreed that membership subscriptions should be kept at a minimum of £20, to enable wide membership, but that members would be encouraged to pay more if they could.
It was agreed that JR would verify MS’s accounts, in line with the requirements of the constitution.
It was agreed to put more focus on ensuring all who attend rehearsals pay subs. OR/JR to assist with this.
4. Membership
SK discussed the need to recruit new members. JDV noted that bassoon and trombone would be particularly welcome. It was noted that more could be done to welcome people who are trying out.
5. Promotion
JB and RE were thanked for their work on promoting FO.
CD to send JB list of sites for putting up posters; when people take them they can agree which sites they will aim for.
NR agreed to take on the FO twitter account.
SG (not present) has agreed to take on the FO Facebook page.
6. Constitution
Some amendments are required to the constitution in the light of the Triodos bank account conditions.
LM and MS to amend constitution and circulate.
7. Election of Officers
The current committee (Chair, Lisa Muller, Musical Director Jesse D Vernon, Orchestra Director Jenny Sansom, Choir Director Georgina Lowe, Treasurer Mark Stanley, Membership Secretary Steve Knight, Press Officer Ruth Essex) was proposed by JR, seconded by NG and elected unopposed.
8. Other roles
In addition to the elected roles and the promotional work, it was noted that there is often a need for additional help on an ad hoc basis. It was noted in particular that HM as social organiser needs help from time to time.
SH, MW and NG agreed to be ‘members at large’ to help with various tasks ad
hoc.
9. AOB
There was discussion over funding opportunities; these will need to be linked to specific projects.
There was discussion over renting a permanent home for the FO, MS is looking into options.
There was discussion over arrangements for the forthcoming bike tour, information will be shared on the forum and by email.
JDV shared some ideas he has over music he might orchestrate.
Plans for the Halloween gig were discussed.
Suggestions for a venue (and set ideas) for the Halloween gig wanted. Please contact JDV.