BBE has partnered with organisers of The Commonwealth of Nations Flag of Peace initiative to provide performance opportunities for cornet players in cities across the UK on Commonwealth Day, Monday 13 March 2023.
The day marks the 10 year anniversary of the signing of the Commonwealth Charter of the Commonwealth by Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, a landmark document that sets out the values and inspirations that unite the Commonwealth’s 56 independent countries.
On the day a short ceremony will be held in every UK city at 10.30am, at which a Commonwealth of Nations ‘Flag of Peace’ will be raised. A cornet player will be required to perform a short fanfare, Majesty by A. W. Carlisle. The occasion will involve other local musicians, town criers, local dignitaries and the general public. The event will provide an opportunity for bands to engage with a diverse range of roles and interests across their local community by providing a player from their band.
BBE CEO Kenny Crookston commented: “In providing this special service of the playing of ‘Majesty’ for their respective cities, cornet players nationwide will also bring their own bands, and brass bands in general, to the public’s attention in a very positive way, celebrating this unique moment in the history of the Commonwealth. We would like therefore, to encourage cornet players within the cities of the UK to get involved in this important occasion.”
On the subject of the Charter, the Rt Hon Patricia Scotland KC, Secretary-General, Commonwealth of Nations, commented: "The values expressed in the Charter transcend cultures, borders and generations. Keeping them active in our minds and hearts is vital. I am confident that Commonwealth Day will offer people everywhere the chance to reflect on the progress we are making together, the tools our Charter gives us to face the challenges of the world, and the continued importance of our shared moral, ethical and practical framework for the advancement of the Commonwealth’s common welfare.”
Register interest to perform on Commonwealth day
Cornet players are asked to register their interest by Sunday 4 December via this form. A copy of the fanfare and the exact location of the event will then be sent to successful applicants in advance. For more information, please email info@bbe.org.uk.