Last year, the BBE Equality, Diversity and Inclusion working group asked just that, conducting a survey to gather the positive and negative experiences of those identifying as female in the world of banding.
107 survey responses were received in which questions on women’s experiences of banding and their opportunities were answered. Read the full facts and figures behind this report, or read on for the headline findings.
Women in Banding survey summary
- Opportunities are there to reach a high level of playing, but less so when it comes to conducting or adjudicating. Women are possibly conditioned to not look higher and there is a shortage of role models
- Success in banding was seen as down to ability, although confidence was a factor and ‘being one of the lads’ was seen as a virtue.
- Equality training and mentoring were cited as a possible way forward.
- Whilst many women shared positive experiences in banding, others reported that sexism, verbal and physical abuse still exist.
- For some, being a mother and playing in a band had not been a problem, although others had had to relinquish their position in the band.
- The most positive experience of women in banding was friendship and being part of a community.
What's next?
From the survey findings, Brass Bands England has identified a number of key areas, which will inform our ongoing activity and support for the banding community. We pledge to:
- Promote the need for the inclusion of women in programming, as role models, composers, conductors, adjudicators and other key positions, without being tokenistic
- Set up discussions with banding organisations to discuss women’s opportunities
- Utilise BBE events and partner with other organisations and events to involve, engage and promote women in banding
- Promote Equality Training for bands and advertise available mentoring schemes for women in key roles in banding
- Launch a campaign to challenge gender stereo-typing
- Create a signposting resource to help with maternity rights and where to report a concern
About the survey
The Women in Banding survey received 107 responses. Responses were collected May - June 2021 via an online survey which was distributed to both BBE members and non-members via email, brass band media, and social media.
How can I get involved?
Register for the Brass Bands England newsletter to be notified when new events and initiatives are announced.
Are you a woman in banding? Share your thoughts on the survey with us, along with your successes and challenges on the hashtag #WomenInBanding.