The festival recently held its annual meeting and the newly-elected committee has begun to enthusiastically plan for this year’s event.

Bevan Roennfeldt, the committee chairperson, has been linked with the event for since 1956 - when he first entered with the Marananga Brass Band.

Although he’s seen something like 50 festivals, Mr Roennfeldt hopes the 100th anniversary will be the biggest and the best.

Although there is a competitive aspect to the festival, there’s plenty of fun to be had.

“It also allows for fellowship between other band members,” Mr Roennfeldt said.

The 2010 festival will be held in Tanunda, at the Barossa Arts and Convention Centre on Saturday, September 18.

The Band Festival will, as usual, feature Brass and Concert bands, Pipe bands, School bands and the popular Tanunda street march.

The state championships will be incorporated into the festival through the South Australian Band Association.

All bands across the state, and many from interstate, have been notified about this competition.

The committee is confident there will be a large number of bands arrive in the Barossa to participate in the historic competition.