From: Tim Walker [mailto:Tim@efdss.org]
Sent: 25 May 2001 14:49

IF YOU WANT LIVE MUSIC VENUES TO SURVIVE, LIVE MUSIC NEEDS YOU - ON THURSDAY 19 JULY!

The Government's proposals for licensing reform are not guaranteed to end the absurd treatment that many local gigs receive at the hands of local authorities.

The Home Office estimates that only 5% of licensed premises currently hold annual public entertainment licences. In effect, this means that a performance by three or more musicians would be a criminal offence for the proprietor in 95% of the UK's recreational premises.

This ludicrous situation is under-reported in the national press – but that could be changed. What are you doing on the afternoon of Thursday July 19th? Would you be interested in participating in an event to celebrate live music, and to draw media attention to the bizarre "two-in-a-bar rule"?

The message to the Government will be that future licensing legislation must recognise the value of live music for the whole community.

HOW WILL IT WORK?

The plan is that a variety of bands, which must be unamplified and portable (so no grand pianos!), will turn up at prearranged bars and pubs in central London and put on an 'impromptu' performance. In fact, venues will have been selected and briefed beforehand. Bandleaders will carry an info sheet advising licensees that if they don't hold a public entertainment licence the band should be asked to leave - in the nicest possible way, of course.

A full media briefing will precede the event and it is hoped that both national press and TV will attend, following some bands from venue to venue. Musicians of all kinds are needed. The event is being co-ordinated by the English Folk Dance and Song Society (EFDSS), and is endorsed by the Musicians Union, Jazz Services, and the Campaign for Live Music (CaLM).

The afternoon will close with performances outside Number 10 Downing Street, before crossing the road to the Red Lion for a drink followed by a party at EFDSS. The event is expected to run from 11.30am to 5.00pm.

If you are interested in participating please forward contact details to livemusic@efdss.org .

Please state what instrument(s) you play, the style of music, and whether you will bring along other musicians. Remember to include your full name, address and phone number as well as email address.

EFDSS will be dealing with public liability issues. However, if you join EFDSS for £26, you and your group will have full public liability insurance cover all year through the EFDSS insurance scheme. If you are interested, contact us for details.
Please pass this email on to anybody you know who feels strongly about live music

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We look forward to hearing from you, Rupert Redesdale Development Officer & Tim Walker Chief Officer EFDSS
Cecil Sharp House
2 Regents Park Road
London NW1 7AY
Tel 0207 485 2206
Fax 0207 284 0534