oggie . . thank heavens for some sense in this rather sadly predictable outpouring of angst . .

Yes, we've obtained Arts Council funding (and withdrew a second application which would probably have succeeded, when I decided we didn't have enough organisational help to see the proposal through). It is VERY MUCH a case of finding a scheme whose terms cover what you want to do - and, certainly, it's a matter of chance whether there's any such scheme available when you want it.

Your first contact should be the Arts Officer (or whatever they happen to be called) of your local council; they should be able to give you an idea of what's available at the moment, and in any case their support is ALMOST essential to the success of your application. The other source of info. is the Arts Council regional office for where you live . . My experience of such offices is that they are very ready to advise even if their advice amounts to "no chance, matey!". (Remember they don't make the rules, they only try to apply them as best they can - and a thankless task that is, as the Dome swallows up more and more of the Lottery funding which has become a major part of their income).

Not all Arts Council schemes have required a Constitution, or for you to be a Company (indeed, if you're looking at a scheme which has those requirements then it's probably not the scheme for you); something less formal than a Constitution may be enough. And certainly one of the A4E-type schemes (possibly the Millenium Awards for All) included guidance on what should be covered by the "Rules"/Constitution.

It's not the case that all schemes require 50/50 funding, but the "rules" do change very rapidly. As far as I'm aware the prospects for a BAND to get funding are minimal; you stand much more chance with a PROJECT which happens to involve your band.

If you happen to be based in the East of England then I may have some further ideas/useful contacts. . Feel free to email me (gdothawesatsandotcom . . look for the dots and the at in that address).

G.