SHIKO COMMITTEE MEETING
23 JULY 2007

Present: Bill (Chairperson), Dan, Mandy, Alex, Pat, Angie, Boyd, Viv.

1. RESPONSIBILITY FOR INSTRUMENTS
It was suggested that one person should take overall responsibility for all equipment at gigs. Agreement on who should take responsibility to be decided prior to the gig.
A sign out sheet for loan of drums etc to be used to ensure that all equipment can be traced.
Agreed that Angie would buy a book to record loans. In the front of this would be wording stating that all those borrowing equipment would agree to take full responsibility for its safekeeping. This would be drawn to the attention of all wishing to borrow equipment. Boyd was happy to look after the book. Angie would also buy a plastic box for the percussion instruments, as the other one had gone missing.

2. WEBSITE
Agreed that the website information needed updating, and that Boyd's telephone no. should replace Camilla's. Bill would speak to Camilla about her thoughts on the website. It was agreed that the introductory wording about Shiko remained current. Comments from all members would be welcome.

3. PERFORMANCE GROUP VS INCLUSIVE COMMUNITY GROUP
The meeting discussed the issues recently raised as to whether Shiko should become a more polished performance group or continue as an inclusive community group. It was generally felt that it should be the latter, continually welcoming in new members. The idea of having a split between the 'experts' and 'learners' was thought not to work. However, the idea of a totally independent 'band' formed from amongst the 'expert' element within Shiko, which would run as a totally separate entity seemed to be the way forward. Shiko would still perform at community based gigs, but with less pressure, and more creative ways of learning. This would enable new members to be integrated in a more gentle way, with more time taken to learn new rhythms, but still building a good repertoire. There would always be simpler parts for each rhythm. The hour between 6 -7pm would be used for the more experienced players to make faster progress.

4. RECORDING SESSION
Boyd would check whether it would be possible for both Shiko and the proposed new 'band' to participate in the potential recording session with Glamorgan University.

5. REQUIREMENTS FOR ATTENDANCE PRIOR TO GIGS
As a general rule it was Agreed that to perform in a gig members would be expected to attend the two preceding practice sessions beforehand.


6. ATTRACTING & KEEPING NEW MEMBERS
Agreed that there should be an open recruitment policy, welcoming new members at any time. New members should be welcomed and better supported. The idea of pairing new members with existing members was suggested. Develop ideas to help people learn. Shiko flier would be a useful tool for recruitment.

7. PAYMENT FOR BOYD FOR GIGS
Boyd indicated that he was happy with the way Shiko paid him for sessions, based on what could be afforded, related to numbers attending, with a maximum payment cut off point. Some felt there should also be an agreed minimum level, and payment for his time in leading Shiko at gigs. Boyd indicated that he was happy to do some voluntary work with Shiko, and take some responsibility to attrct new members. It was generally felt that attracting new members was the responsibility of all members.
Agreed that the Committee would make decisions from time to time re payments for gigs, based on available monies.

8. COMMITTEE AND DECISION MAKING
Agreed that it was essential to keep everyone informed of decisions made. Generally decisions should be agreed by the members. Copies of minutes would be available on Tuesday nights, could be emailed to people and put on the website. The Committees role was to steer and feedback to the Group.

9. LOGO
Following general discussion about progress with a new logo, the general feeling was that all of the Committee were happy with the existing logo and would recommend that this be maintained. New T-shirts could be ordered via the Prison.

10. MASKS
It was Agreed that wearing masks for gigs would enhance the image of Shiko. A mask making workshop led by Pat would be held on 14 August.

11. DRUMMING EVENT
Agreed that it was long overdue for Shiko to host a drumming event. Suggestions for venues were called for.

12. NEXT COMMITTEE MEETING
To review of progress made. 3 September 2007 6.30pm


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