Phuket Town Mayor Saaroj Angkhanapilas signed the MoU at a ceremony at the Royal Phuket City Hotel on Tuesday (Jan 16).
Signing the MoU on behalf of the Marching Band Association of Thailand was the association’s president, Kosin Suebprasitwong. The agreement outlines the two organisations’ commitment to the successful execution of the event, officially named the "Band Competition of Thailand Phuket 2024", which is scheduled to take place on April 27-28.
Joining the dignitaries were key figures from Phuket City Municipality, including Phuket City Municipality Chief Administration Office (Palad) Chalermphon Piyanarongroj and Phuket City Council members, along with teachers from schools operating under Phuket City Municipality.
The collaboration stems from the music potential development project, a joint initiative tasked to the Marching Band Association of Thailand, the principal organisation overseeing marching bands in the country. The association will be responsible for directing and organising the competition, ensuring its success and adherence to high standards.
Expressing their enthusiasm, both parties emphasised the agreement as a crucial starting point for future collaborations aimed at fostering the potential of Phuket’s marching bands.
The competition will be held in five distinct categories: Solo, Small Ensemble, Large Ensemble, Concert Marching Art and Street Parade.
Breaking down the categories, the Solo competition will be further divided into three age groups and three subcategories ‒ Solo Woodwind, Solo Brass and Solo Percussion. The Small Ensemble and Large Ensemble categories will also feature age-based divisions, accommodating participants under 15 years, under 18 years and an open age division.
Additionally, the Concert Marching Art category, characterised by standing performances with gestures and supporting actors, will cater to two age groups ‒ under 16 years old and an open age division.
The Street Parade, a visually captivating aspect of the competition, will include two distinct categories based on the size of the group of participants, ensuring a dynamic and diverse display of talents.
“With preparations already underway, the Band Competition of Thailand Phuket 2024 is poised to be a cultural extravaganza, celebrating the rich musical heritage and talent within Phuket Province,” Mayor Saroj said.
“As the event approaches, anticipation builds for a spectacular showcase of marching bands that will captivate audiences and participants alike,” he added.