To Leave or Not to Leave that is the question

Hi All. I wonder if I may canvass your opinions please? I've been a member of a community band (I won't say where - other than it's in the UK) or its name to retain some confidentiality) for about 2 years. Originally it was run by a pro guitarist and, during his time this it was a happy place - run informally with mutual respect and help. If a member got out of line then quietly and discreetly the Pro suggested that 'maybe it was time he/she set up his/her own band'. The member then had a choice of how to go forward. The sound desk was a balanced mix as was the playing levels of everyone coming (beginners, intermediates etc.). The Pro chose to give it up (along with another community gathering) to do his own thing which is fine and everyone wishes him success.

Currently there are no minors in the band.

Now the 'band' is run by committee who has introduced a constitution, accounts, membership rules and a code of conduct. All members are being asked to(if not required) to sign the Code of Conduct. If any one 'slips' then he/she is reported to an 'overseer' for disciplinary action which can include written or verbal warnings, suspension or 'dismissal'! I get the need for a constitution and accounts but imposing rules and a code of conduct (when there has not been any issue that I am aware of during the past years) seems overkill. If we choose not to sign it then 'we' will be deemed to accept it by continuing to turn up and be subject to the rules.

The Code of Conduct includes such statements as:

I will involve myself in the work of the band and accept my fair share of responsibilities,

I will attend rehearsal and concerts, arrive at the agreed time, practise outside of rehearsals

If I am unable to attend a concert or rehearsal, or expect to be late, I will let someone know as soon as possible

I will take musical direction and positively face any challenges thrown at me ... and more

What was once a happy place relaxed environment with no issues is now mired in, what feels like, authoritarianism. As for the music, well that is now 'drowned' by keys, drums, bass, electric guitar, and singers. 'Strummers' (that includes me) are not 'encouraged' to plug in (either to a central desk or their own amps) and their playing is drowned out (save for one who plugs in and controls the mixing desk). Our performance quality has also dropped. Different levels of player are not encouraged (though the committee says they do); songs are not broken down and put back together in an arranged piece. Basically it's a case of just bang it out. Even a poor performance that's all over the place is described as 'tight'.

So what are your thoughts friends. Should I struggle on and accept change or is time to say this element of my guitar life has reached a natural conclusion and simply leave friends behind?

A😪

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