Ilmo. Sr. 1er Teniente de Alcalde, Delegado de Ferias y Fiestas del Ayuntamiento de Valencia

    The Valencia International Music Band Contest is about to begin again. While the maximum number of bands will be participating in the highest category, the honour section, we have had to regrettably cancel the special section because too few bands have decided to participate.

    It is something of a paradox that while the honour section is crowded with participants, the special section is nearly abandoned because so many bands have moved up to the highest category. This reflects the extremely high quality of our musicians and their very competitive nature. Yet worryingly, this perhaps means we are seeing a widening gap between the most competitive bands - and the rest.

    However, despite these thoughts, this is the opportunity for everyone to demonstrate their musical ability and we all look forward to witnessing a most splendid and competitive contest.

    I am very happy to welcome the participants and the public - whose cheers and support push the competition forward.