Mr. SERAFÍN CASTELLANO GÓMEZ

It is a great honor for me to be part of one of the best wind band contests on the international stage, and I believe I am right in describing it as the most important band contest in the world.

Everyone is aware of my love of music. As many of you know, I am a musician and for me it is a great privilege to be able to take part in a contest which first began in the nineteenth century, established itself in the twentieth century, and today continues to grow stronger than ever. However, the most promising part of its history is its great future.

I am convinced that the dedication of the participating bands and the enthusiasm of the audiences have laid the foundations for the international recognition that the Wind Band Contest "City of Valencia" receives today. Nor do I want to forget the fantastic work of Valencia City Council; they have supported and nurtured this contest over many years with great effort, dedication and financial contributions.

This contest contributes to the promotion of wind band music. Music is one of the most wide-spread elements of culture in the Valencia Region. It forms part of the region's individuality and is one of the arts most characteristic of the region's people. Wind bands are an artistic and musical expression of the Valencian cultural tradition.

There is a music association in practically every town in our Region. They form such a significant part of our lives that they can be viewed as important cultural, social and economic catalysts.

The Valencia Region has 533 wind bands in its 542 towns, made up of 33,576 musicians.

In 2012, the Valencia Regional Government, through the Ministry of Public Governance, will spend a total of €7,508,670 on structural, social, economic and cultural activities to promote, boost and encourage music associations.

The substantial part that bands play in our culture obliges the public administration to oversee, protect and support their needs as far as possible, as this also enables us to ennoble and enhance our own culture.

I am convinced that this edition of the International Wind Band Contest "City of Valencia" will be a new cultural and social success that will only be surpassed by the next edition.

I wish you every success in this edition, a success that is shared by all of us who love and support wind bands in our region.

Thank you.

D. Serafín Castellano Gómez
Conseller de Governació