BBC Strictly Come Dancing confirms major change due to budget cuts and fans say it's 'such a shame'

Strictly Come Dancing fans are disappointed after noticing that the live broadcasts have been missing a key musical component.

"What has happened to the wonderful band? Only a few playing now, no brass at all, such a shame!" one viewer noted on social media.

The much-loved Strictly band, led by Dave Arch, is instrumental in setting the atmosphere for the competing dancers and their professional partners.

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Now the BBC has responded to the concerns raised by viewers. A spokesperson told OK! Magazine that due to budgetary restrictions, the brass section will not be featured as prominently in the shows.

The spokesperson clarified: "We are proud to be one of the last remaining shows to still use a live band and singers and remain committed to doing so. We have increased the use of the Strictly Come Dancing House Band's brass section in the current series for three live shows covering themed weeks such as movies and musicals and one other show to be confirmed - in addition to the annual visit to Blackpool - where classic song choices require more frequent use of these instruments. For editorial reasons, and to ensure the best value for money for audiences, we are unable to support a brass section for the entire series as we did pre-Covid."

Strictly Come Dancing fans have been left upset by the latest alterations to the show's musical accompaniment, reports the Mirror.

One fan said: "The musicians appear to be playing with pre-recorded rhythm section, no brass players. Previous full band were amazing. At least the singers appear to be live. Sad demise. Not doing it for me this series."

Another agreed, saying: "I noticed, not the same," while a third commented: "Hope we don't lose the band like the US version!"

Viewers suggested financial cutbacks were a possible reason for the downsizing of the live band. One fan said: "It's always a war between cost and budget," highlighting that "perhaps they shouldn't pay the celebs so much and keep an excellent band".

Another noted: "They haven't had a full band since before the pandemic. It was promised that it would return but due to budget cuts that hasn't happened. They will have a full band for the theme nights, Blackpool and the final (I think). The music is recorded in advance by the band though and played as a backing track."

The upcoming live episode of Strictly Come Dancing, set for Saturday, will be the first themed night of the series - Movie Night. The show will feature a full live band in the studio and an array of dance routines inspired by popular films.