Due to the continuing growth of both the NSW SBF and the ASOF, and the increasing complexity of running two separate but parallel events, it was decided to merge the two entities and become the AUSTRALIAN SCHOOL BAND AND ORCHESTRA FESTIVAL.
All the regular events of both Festivals will continue to be available, however, schools will have a one-stop, centralised profile which will streamline the entry process and reduce the confusion surrounding entries and payments which we have experienced in recent years.
The centralised database will also allow for a more efficient scheduling process, so it should speed up the turnaround time in finalising the Festival schedule after entries have closed.
We have had to archive some info when merging the two sets of data so schools logging in for the first time this year will be required to recreate their individual ensemble profiles (bands, string ensembles and orchestras). This is a one off situation which should take no more than 30-60 seconds per ensemble. All data will be retained making next year’s entries even simpler.
We are excited about this new chapter in the life of the Festival and we look forward to continuing to grow what is truly one of the great events on the Australian school music calendar.
