Annual General Meeting 2009

11 March 2009

Attending: Benvenuti, Marco; Darusman, Candra; Ezana, Alex (President); Mallet, Christiane (Trésorière); Meier-Ewert, Moritz; Pejovic, Bernardine; Piguet, Patrice (Vice-Président); Weiler, Janet; Wormus, Jay

1. Opening of the meeting. The meeting was opened by the President at 12.45, with a quorum present.

2. Adoption of the agenda. The provisional agenda was adopted without amendment.

3. Electing a secretary for the meeting. Mr. Jay Wormus was designated secretary of the meeting.

4. Adoption of the report of the previous General Assembly. A number of issues raised in the report were discussed. In response to a question regarding the annual fee of CHF 120, the President explained that the funds were used for rental of the piano, purchase of equipment & sheet music, with the balance being kept as a reserve for envisaged projects. The prompt payment of the fee by all members continued to be a problem; a reminded would be sent to all whose payment was outstanding. Some work had been done on preparation of a poster to encourage new memberships, but more efforts were needed. Having more possibilities for performances could encourage membership. An enhanced website could help; Jay Wormus volunteered to work on this. The purchase of a piano was still an open question; there remained some unresolved issues.

The report of the AGM held in February 2008 was adopted without amendment.

5. Report of the President. The President made an oral report to the meeting. He noted that the year had been relatively quiet; there had been only one “Jazz Thursday” as the programme could not be continued due to problems with the location. There had been jazz performances at the UN Plage, the UNWG Bazaar, and the Fête de la Musique; he thanked Patrice for his efforts in setting these up. He noted that the retirement of some members may impact the Club.

Comments from members

Jay Wormus reported that the classical group had two regularly rehearsing chamber groups: a flute trio and a clarinet trio. Some materials were performance-ready. A string trio had performed at the International Day of Peace. The classical groups were available for such occasions. The piano continued to be a concern, as it was used regularly for instrumental and vocal rehearsals.

Patrice Piguet said that in addition to those already mentioned, the jazz group had performed for several retirement parties, the UNCTAD Christmas party, and the Geneva NGO Fête (for which we received a good write-up).

Suggestions were made to offer the Club’s services in connections with various exhibitions at the Palais; the Protocol Office could be contacted in this regard. It was also suggested that the programme of activities, rehearsals and performances be published on an annual basis.

6. Financial report by the Treasurer. The financial statements were distributed and reviewed. There was some discussion regarding the auditing of the accounts. It was agreed to retain Natalia, and that it was not necessary for the auditors to be Club members.

7. Adoption of the President's and the Treasurer's reports. The reports of the President and the Treasurer were adopted without objection.

8. Other questions. The President noted that it was necessary to elect a new Secretary for the Club. Jay Wormus was nominated and elected by acclamation.

9. There was no other business. The meeting closed at 13:45, and was followed by an informal discussion of the “Orchestra Project”.