Army band tours the USA coast to coast – part one

Band of the Scots Guards performing in the USA

Lance Corporal Rob Howe

Lance Corporal Rob Howe is a Percussionist in the Band of the Scots Guards and is currently touring the United States of America and Canada.

Pipes, Drums and Dancers

Ever since I joined the Band of the Scots Guards, I knew there was a opportunity to tour the USA and it was something I had been looking forward to for some time.

Since arriving at the band, I have seen three other guards bands complete the tour; Welsh Guards (2006), Coldstream Guards (2008) and Irish Guards (2010).

Before we even arrived at the airport, months of hard work had gone into organising the tour. Certain jobs were delegated to various members of the band by our previous Director of Music and the Band Sergeant Major. I was given the responsibility of media and photography, which I have a keen interest in.

Joining us on this tour are the Pipes, Drums and Dancers of the Black Watch, 3rd Battalion Royal Regiment of Scotland under the leadership of Pipe Major Richard Grisdale. Interestingly, on our last tour to the USA in 1998, the Black Watch also provided the pipe band. They are a young and relatively inexperienced ensemble and have risen to the occasion superbly, being one of the most professional pipe bands we have worked with recently.

On Wednesday 9th January, the band flew to New York and then travelled by coach to Philadelphia. We stayed in a magnificent hotel in the middle of Philadelphia and were looked after very well. Musicians Dave Cook and Paul Smith really splashed out, spending $45 on breakfast in bed!

Standing ovation

The next day was spent rehearsing our show as it had been some time since we had rehearsed it with the pipes and drums. It also gave Major Vernon Yates, our new Director of Music the opportunity to put the final touches on the musical aspects of the show. This took up most of the day, but some managed to squeeze in a Philly Cheesesteak in the evening!

Friday morning was spent sightseeing by most of the band, visiting the Liberty Bell and running up the steps that feature in the movie ‘Rocky.’ Some found this easier to do than others!

The band had its first show that evening, performing at the Kimmel Center in Philadelphia. The afternoon consisted of a final rehearsal in the venue, kit cleaning and finished with a lovely buffet that had been put on for us. It took a while to get used to the chocolate chip cookies with rock salt though.

The show started at 8pm and we played to a packed out audience. One of the highlights of the night was playing ‘Amazing Grace’ with the pipes and at the end of the evening, we received a standing ovation. ‘Amazing Grace’ was written especially for this tour and features Dear Lord and Father of Mankind, Last Post and its American equivalent Taps.

In the first 10 days of the tour we travelled over 1,000 miles, performing shows in Philadelphia, Greenvale, Easton, Rockville, Gettysburg, York, Union and New Brunswick, stretching across four states. We received standing ovations in all shows and the reception from the audiences has been tremendous.

The band had the opportunity to visit New York City on our first day off. We managed to fit in most of the tourist attractions, including the Empire State Building, Statue of Liberty and Times Square to name a few. The Band also visited the 9/11 Memorial at Ground Zero. This was a very moving experience and our tour guide reminded us what happened on that day almost 12 years ago.

Memorial

Musicians get to do some sightseeing.

We were also given a coach tour of Washington DC by our driver, Gabe. We visited many memorials and attractions, including the White House, Martin Luther King Memorial and the Marine Corps War Memorial.

At every show members of the band have been fundraising for the Scots Guards Colonel’s Fund. Charity wrist bands are a 1st battalion Scots Guards driven fundraiser. Proceeds will entirely go to assisting wounded guardsmen and their families. In the first 7 shows, we have raised around $7000, which is a great start.

The 1st Battalion, Scots Guards are currently serving on operations in Afghanistan and the Regimental Band wishes them a good tour and safe return.

In the coming weeks we are travelling to Canada, the Mid West and the Deep South. So far the tour is going really well and we look forward to performing our show and promoting the United Kingdom as well as the British Army across the USA and Canada.

Scarlet and Gold of London town

Massed Bands of The Household Division perform the Scarlet and Gold concert at Central Hall, Westminster.

Musn Batai is a musician in the Band of the Irish Guards. During a normal working day he performs on the oboe and may play at state and ceremonial events across the capital and around the world.

Ride of the Valkyries

After a serious week of preparation for the Scarlet and Gold concerts, the Massed Bands of The Household Division, part of the Corps of Army Music, gave fantastic performances on the 22nd and 23rd of November at Central Hall, Westminster, with a versatile programme. Great soloists and breathtaking ensemble work from all the members of the band delighted the audiences.

I felt very privileged to sit in the band as the principal oboe and had a great pleasure to be part of this musical spectacular. The concert started with the National anthem followed by Wagner’s The Ride of the Valkyries, with the Fanfare players on the balcony, decorating the venue and filling the hall with their glorious sound. The opening was truly powerful and instantly gave an insight as to what the audience was to expect from the rest of the concert.

Following Gounod’s March Militaire we played a piece, which was in my opinion one of the highlights of the evening – Alfred Reid’s Armenian Dances which were originally composed for a concert band and there are truly challenging moments for all the instrumental parts; in particular woodwinds. The Band played extremely well and demonstrated its excellent skills.

The other highlight was the world-renowned film music from Spielberg’s Oscar winning drama Schindler’s List. I would like to mention Lance Corporal Rebecca White who played the solo violin with a superb taste and fantastic musicality. My part was not particularly busy in the piece so I had a chance to glance at the audience and notice that they were clearly ‘blown away’ by the unity of the ensemble and the soloist’s sensitivity. It was a real gem in our programme.

Massed Bands of The Household Division perform the Scarlet and Gold concert at Central Hall, Westminster.

Star Wars

The show had a sudden change after the solemn melody as the Corps of Drums, 2^nd Battalion, The Princess of Wales’s Royal Regiment marched on. They made a spectacular show with use of ultraviolet lights while using fluorescent yellow drumsticks as the venue’s lights were switched off. The following marches made everyone stomp their feet and enjoy the traditional military music. I heard people whistle or hum the well known marches even when we went out for the interval. Upon return the Band performed Star Wars by John Williams. This piece also received support from the fanfares and the lightning display which again made this musical event more effective. It almost felt like the moments from the film, ‘Star Wars’ were brought into the auditorium.

The pipes are always loved, it was not different this evening either. The well known tunes played by the Pipes and Drums of The London Regiment, were very well received and set the mood to a very light hearted overture from the MGM Classic film ‘The Wizard of Oz’.

Massed Bands of The Household Division perform the Scarlet and Gold concert at Central Hall, Westminster.

Beautiful marches

The film music led us to the Guards Big Band’s performance of three pieces. They were led by Colour Sergeant  Jason Libby. I must admit this was the first time in my life I wished I could play a brass instrument or saxophone and be part of this ensemble. The superior playing was breathtaking. The members of the ensemble were completely unified and clearly had a great time performing. Their enthusiasm made everyone feel part of their show. Third piece, A Foggy Day in London also featured a soloist/singer, Lance Sergeant James Scott.

After the magnificent performance of the Big Band, the concert reached its finale which consisted of pieces such as Bizet’s Farandole, Handel’s See the Conquering Hero Comes and a very effective arrangement by Lieutenant Colonel Duncan Beat. The arrangement was a combination of Will Ye No Come Back Again and Auld Lang Syne, with the bugle call Last Post.

The audience seemed to love the show and I have no doubt that they will return eagerly in the future to this unique musical spectacle. I really hope that I shall be in the band again to take a part in this great event, as ‘Scarlet and Gold’ is one of the rare opportunities for the members of the band to engage with the public in the concert ambiance and share the beautiful marches and versatile music from all around the world.

Massed Bands of The Household Division perform the Scarlet and Gold concert at Central Hall, Westminster.

Sinfonietta – sound of strings

Musn Wright

Musn Wright is a Musician in the Royal Artillery Band, part of the Corps of Army Music. As a violinist he is given the opportunity to perform with a small orchestra namely the Corps of Army Music Sinfonietta. During the normal working day he will perform on a wind instrument at key ceremonial events and in support of the Army worldwide.

One-size-fits-all, cream of the crop ensemble

An unusually cold autumn morning set me up perfectly for rummaging through my wardrobe for a different hat. As an Army musician, I’m sure many have seen the plethora of different head gear that adorn the tunics; from bearskins to busbies and mirror-like brass to the humble beret. But few will be so familiar with the metaphorical cap that many of us sit under throughout the year – that of trained orchestral musicians.

Granted, the image of a macho soldier lending their hand to the subtleties of a violin or cello, are not the first to spring to mind when one thinks of  “jobs available in the army”. However, our country’s orchestral heritage can be traced directly back to this. The first official orchestra in Great Britain was that of the Royal Artillery Band in Woolwich, who as a unit, very proudly celebrated their 250th anniversary in October this year.

Other small string groups can also still be seen, made up from musicians of both mounted and Foot Guard Regiments of the Household Division.

So back to this cold autumn morning. What we have is musicians from the Royal Artillery Band and the seven bands of the Household Division descending upon the Royal Military School of Music in Twickenham, for a one-size-fits-all, cream of the crop ensemble. Known as the ‘CAMUS sinfonietta’, its anticipated annual occurrence and careful selection of players offer it up as a very distinct jewel in the crown of military music. And the extra sparkle comes in the form of the finest woodwind and brass players, trawled from all corners and cupboards of the corps of army music. Indeed this year, as in some previous, we have the pleasure of some guest players from the RAF.

Our first rehearsal was the usual mixture of emotions. A meet and greet of those that have seen each other recently and those who, as in any working environment, may be grateful that they haven’t. But tensions over who spilt whose coffee last year soon subside as we recalibrate ourselves for the task in hand. And this year it’s quite a task, yet with even less preparation time than last, owing to such a busy month for bands. After several hours playing I feel much more relaxed into the larger string section than normal, and by the sound of the rest of the orchestra it promises to an exciting program of music to get stuck into and bring some passion and energy to both venues in the concert series.

HRH The Countess of Wessex meets LCpl Shellard clarinet soloist

The two venues for this years CAMUS  Sinfonietta concerts were the Newbury Arts Centre and the prestigious Menuhin Hall at Cobham.

The audiences at both venues were a mix of music lovers, military top brass and even royalty at the Menuhin Hall. Yes we had the privilege of our Colonel in Chief , HRH the Countess of Wessex in attendance. Nothing like a spot of royalty to ratchet up the pressure and encourage the best possible performance.

So to the music…

The woodwind section of the Sinfonietta

Our opening piece was an overture by the lesser known Rosenberg. And quite an opener it was, possibly an eye-opener for those less familiar with 20th century composers of his ilk. It’s a sort of marmite music with not much between loving or hating it. I’d say the audience were split on both nights. No matter the stance taken on the style of music, there would have been no doubt as to the ferocity and commitment it was delivered with. The conductor, Lt Col Meldrum, could easily have been mistaken for an evil wizard as he tried desperately to conjure every ounce of the composer’s intent from the bold phrases and the gut-wrenching harmonies. Well that was my take on it. A passer by or those less familiar with the concert hall might have thought Paul Daniels had just pulled an orchestra out of a hat. However, I suppose unless you’re a musician it would be difficult to grasp the effect a conductor can have on an orchestra.

Alongside the great variety of musical observations to be had, there was plenty on show for the non-musical military contingent who seemed equally transfixed by the performance.

For example, the discipline and timing involved in synchronising the bowing and rhythms of a well-oiled orchestra could match the prowess of a top class drill team or air display without a second thought. Likewise, the hawk-eyed observation and self control required in those pin-drop moments that see a full string section playing together quieter than a whisper, wouldn’t be out of place in an ambush or reconnaissance role.

LCpl Shellard performs at Arlington Arts Centre Newbury with the Sinfonietta

I’d say my two favourite works of the program were ‘ Banks of Green Willow’ and Gordon Jacob’s  ‘Mini Concerto for Clarinet and Strings’. In the latter we had the pleasure of LCpl Alan Shellard from the Band of the Grenadier Guards as a soloist.

The ‘Banks of Green Willow’ by Butterworth offered a welcome respite from some of the more jarring chords found in the first two works. Its flowing folk-based melodies, painted with expert writing, would certainly have warmed the audience on such a cold evening. Notable colours oozed from the orchestra in the form of Lance Corporal Chris Spencer’s opening clarinet motif, Lance Corporal Rebecca White’s stirring solo violin moments and Warrant Officer Class 1 Guy Bennet’s harp contributions. I did think ‘fair play’ on his behalf as most sergeant majors wouldn’t admit to knowing what a harp was, never mind strumming their own in public.

The response from the audience as the energy in the hall wound up to an impressive, if slightly sweaty, finish of Bizet’s 1st Symphony was most encouraging. So presuming they were as generous to the Soldiers Charity ABF (whom the concerts were in aid of) as they were with their applause, the entire project will have have been of great worth. It’s certainly one I would gladly take part in again.

Public events featuring the bands of the Corps of Army Music

A very long coach trip to Germany

Army musician Lance Corporal Daniel King

Lance Corporal Daniel King is principal clarinettist in the Band of the Royal Corps of Signals (RSIGS BAND). Here he writes about being an Army musician, a role which allows him to perform at many high-profile events across the UK and abroad.

 

Interlocking rings

During the quiet period at the beginning of the year the band takes the opportunity to learn this year’s new marching display. Throughout the period of the year the band will perform this display at beating the retreat all across the country and abroad. We have to learn the display now because if we leave it any later we will not have enough time in the working programme to fit it in.

Due to the weather it was not easy to get a rehearsal outside so the band booked the largest indoor space available on Blandford Camp. This happened to be the gymnasium floor. Although not what you would normally expect to see in a gymnasium, the band took advantage of the large floor space to rehearse the new movements. Each year the band tries and does a completely different display. If it is always the same it gets very boring.

With the Olympics this year the band attempted to create the five interlocking rings, although it didn’t quite work out on the first attempt I am sure they will find a way to incorporate the Olympics in the display. We also tried a few more movements before heading back to the band block.

The band rehearses

 

A few days later we packed all our gear and headed off to Germany for a week and a bit. We departed on coach from Blandford on the Tuesday morning and after a 10-hour journey we reached Elmpt Station near Monchengladbach. The band was to be involved in a medal parade at where HRH Princess Anne was presenting the medals. I wasn’t involved in the parade so I was utilised to take photos of the band.

The day after we arrived there was a rehearsal day and the next day was the parade. I had been struggling to find something bad to say about the brass section in this blog until Musician Dan Shave handed me something on a plate! During the march off he got a little confused during the counter-march (Bless Him) and went the wrong way. To make things worse for himself, he got on the wrong foot and for the whole of the march off he was out of step. Well done Dan! We are only human and we all make mistakes sometimes.

A snowy afternoon in Germany.

Snowman 

On the Friday we packed up again and climbed on a very full bus. We travelled over by civilian coach with trailer but for the next part of the tour we were being looked after by the Bundeswehr (German Army), and they didn’t provide a trailer. We travelled down to Bavaria (About half an hour from Munich). We stopped at the German military hospital for our lunch on the way. This journey took about 12 hours. We were greeted when we got off the coach to freezing cold temperatures and lots of snow. On the Friday we weren’t due in work till mid-afternoon so the band made the most of the weather, some choosing to take a very scenic walk to the nearest town and the more mature of us decided to make a snowman and throw copious amounts of snow at each other…. I lost.

Homebrew

We gave a concert that evening in the nearby town of Tutzing. After the concert we were invited into the Rathaus (Town Hall) for a beer and some food. We do lots of engagements all around the world and it is always nice when you are appreciated. We are always looked after by the people of Tutzing (we have been here before), this year they gave every band member a two-litre bottle of homebrewed Bavarian beer! I can tell you all, it was beautiful. And if any people from Tutzing read this, thank you very much. The following day we did another concert this time in the town of Wörthsee. We were given a fantastic meal after the concert here as well.

 The next couple of days gave the band a chance to look at some of the beautiful scenery that Bavaria has to offer. We travelled early on the Monday morning to a small village called Ettal. Combined with the snow it makes a very beautiful picturesque village. We then travelled a little bit further to see the Neuschwanstein Castle; this was the castle that was used for the fictional country of “Vulgaria” in the film “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang”

On the Tuesday morning we travelled into Munich for a look around the BMW museum. When we got there we found out that they had in fact opened the museum an hour early especially so we could be given a VIP guided tour! From here we visited the Hofbrauhaus (Big brewery in Munich). The band enjoyed this very much!

The following day we packed up again and made our way back to the UK. This wasn’t a particularly fun journey due to the length of it. First was the journey back to Monchengladbach (12 hours) to change coach back to a civilian one, which was followed by the 10-hour journey back to Blandford. We arrived back at 4am on the Thursday morning and after getting home to bed around 5am, I was awoken by my daughter at 8!

5am start for a Passing Out Parade at Pirbright

Army musician Lance Corporal Daniel King

Lance Corporal Daniel King is principal clarinettist in the Band of the Royal Corps of Signals (RSIGS BAND). Here he writes about being an Army musician, a role which allows him to perform at many high-profile events across the UK and abroad.

Going back to work after a period of time on leave is always hard! I remember waking up in the morning thinking, “Do I really have to get up today?”  After hitting the snooze button on my alarm clock for the second time the wife eventually kicked me, forcing me to get up.

Arriving into work you are greeted by the familiar “smiling faces” of other band members. Although having an extended 3 weeks leave was lovely, it is always harder returning than it would be after 2 weeks leave.

Sgt Rich Evans and Musician Dan Shave annoying me with their piccolo trumpets

I walked straight into the office to check the calendar for any new additions to the yearly programme. It appears that over leave a small trip to Cyprus has been added for September. This is why I love this job!

Over the next couple of weeks our Director of Music (DOM) is leaving so he will be doing his handover to the new incoming Captain Tony Adams. For the band this means we have to prepare all instruments and property for a 100% check. All the instruments are laid out to be inspected by the new DOM.

The dreaded trip to the Bandmaster’s office is greeted by a smile and a handful of paperwork. Those 3 weeks off are feeling more like a Hiatus than a holiday. I’m only joking – two handfuls! He is a brass player after all.

WO1 (BM) Troy Tayor-Smith in his office

As I write this blog, band members are pottering around getting out their instruments and checking that they still work after three weeks of them being in their cases. I have my own instrument so I was able to practice over leave… Believe that and you will believe anything. No, I did play it a couple of times over leave at my local church so my lip is still good! Not everyone in the band has their own instrument so they only use Army provided ones. 

As I type, I have the piercing sound of a piccolo trumpet trying to annoy me by playing as high and loud as he possibly can!

Due to the general quiet nature of the week we like to do a bit of physical training! So on the Monday afternoon, the band go down to the all-weather court for a bit of team sports! This week we played basketball. I don’t know how we manage it but we always seem to get at least one injury during the sessions! A few stubbed fingers and a lot of aches!!

The first job of this year is not until the following Friday and that is a 5am start for a Passing Out Parade at Pirbright. So it’s best to enjoy the down-time while we can!

Homeward bound

LCpl Damian Dunphy

Lance Corporal Damian Dunphy is a trombonist with the Heavy Cavalry and Cambrai Band (HC&C Band) based in Catterick, North Yorkshire. Prior to joining the HC&C Band on its formation in 2006 he was a member of the King’s Division Waterloo Band, and prior to that the Regimental Band of the Green Howards.

Having served such a length of time in Yorkshire Damian’s roots are well and truly established. He plays for a number of orchestras in the North East in addition to a number of brass bands, he is also the Musical Director of a local brass band and has conducted a number of other bands in the area.

Comfortable slippers

On Saturday 19 November the Band boarded the bus, London-bound, for Sunday’s Act of Remembrance and subsequent Service of Remembrance with one of our affiliated units, The Royal Tank Regiment.

This has been an annual fixture in the Band’s diary since its formation in June 2006. The Band frequently performs in London and until recently has always stopped at the London Transit Centre at Royal Air Force Uxbridge. It is a place the Band is very familiar with and an overnight stop there is something akin to donning a comfortable pair of old slippers. The accommodation was somewhat dated but you knew where everything was, where the best Indian restaurant was, the cinema and the local running routes.

RAF Uxbridge has recently closed so the Band on this occasion stopped at the Royal Artillery Barracks, in Woolwich, South London.  Any casual observer might note that Yorkshire folk don’t particularly like change, and this sudden breach of transit protocol represented something of a cultural shock to us northerners, no doubt within five years we will have accepted the change although you will still hear the odd grumble about it ‘not being like it used to be’!

Early the following morning the Band made their way across London to set up equipment for the forthcoming Service of Remembrance at St Mary Aldermary, the church is a hidden gem, with hidden being the operative word.  Each year the challenge of finding the venue is augmented by the continual upheaval of additional road works and new one-way systems. Thankfully this had been catered for within our timetable and the Band arrived back at Wellington Barracks in sufficient time to lead the Royal Tank Regiment up to Horseguards and then on to the Cenotaph at Whitehall.  We were assisted in this task by the Pipes and Drums of the Royal Tank Regiment, who also provided a piper to perform the lament. The parade was followed by the Service of Remembrance in the beautiful and historic St Mary Aldermary Church, which in addition to its association with RTR is also linked with HMS Illustrious.

Drum Major Smith.

Medal

November saw our Drum Major, Alistair Smith, return to the Band having spent six months in Afghanistan on Op Herrick 14.   Drum Major Smith was much commended on the sterling service he provided as a vehicle patrol commander for the UK Infantry Battle School in Kabul.  He was awarded a medal for his service at a recent concert at Durham Cathedral with his family in attendance.  We would also like to congratulate Drum Major Smith on his recent promotion to Sergeant.

On Wednesday 30 November the Band departed for Edinburgh where we had been task to participate in a homecoming parade on behalf of one of our affiliated units, The Royal Scots Dragoon Guards (RSDG), who have recently completed a six-month tour of Afghanistan on Op Herrick 14.

On this occasion the Band were accommodated in Edinburgh Castle.  Even those with very limited UK geographical knowledge will be aware that the castle is on a hill, directions to our accommodation were as follows; “Go to the top of the esplanade, go up the hill, do not stop until you get to the top of the hill. When you get to the top of the hill go through the doors in front of you and up the stairs, you are on the fourth floor”, needless to say Wednesday’s trip to the gym ended up being postponed!

The Band, joined by the Pipes and Drums from the RSDG, march down the Royal Mile to Cannongate Kirk.

Thursday morning was a crisp, sunny and cold day, perfect weather for a parade.  The Band, this time joined by the Pipes and Drums from the RSDG, led the Regiment from the castle esplanade down the Royal Mile to Cannongate Kirk in front of a large and appreciative crowd.  The day culminated in a reflective service in Cannongate Kirk, at which Craftsman Andrew Found, who was killed in an explosion in June, was remembered.  The Regiment has now returned to Germany where they are based as part of 7^th Armoured Brigade – The Desert Rats.

As I write the Band are preparing for a hectic period in the run up to Christmas leave.  It is thought that some of Santa’s Elves are known to be working in the Band’s music library preparing our festive programmes.

Pie in the face polka

Lance Corporal Daniel King is principal clarinettist in the Band of the Royal Corps of Signals (RSIGS BAND). Here he writes about being an Army musician, a role which allows him to perform at many high-profile events across the UK and abroad.

Kneller Hall

Every year military bands get tasked with a week or two at the home of Army Music, Kneller Hall. The job is to provide musical support to the school.

There are two main courses that are held at Kneller Hall. The first is the Student Bandmasters course. Future bandmasters are selected to do a 3 year course, which will qualify them to become full bandmasters of one of the regular army bands. The second course is the Foundation Course. Every musician in the British Army goes through this. When musicians complete phase 1 training they go to Kneller Hall and are brought up to the minimum level of ability for army bands. You are also taught how to march and play which I can assure you is not easy as a beginner.

The duty band has three main tasks whilst at Kneller Hall. The first is to provide a full concert band for the student bandmasters (Conducting Band). Conducting band gives the student bandmasters the opportunity to practice the skills they are taught in front of a full band, it also gives the band the opportunity to play some more musical repertoire and see what the future bandmasters are like!

The second thing we do is help out with numbers in the foundation course band. Unlike regular army bands, the foundation course is often unbalanced in the way of instrumentation, other than the obvious “too many brass”, which is a problem in every single wind band in the world in my opinion. Only a few band members are needed for this in order to help with numbers and also to sit with sections that may require a little support.

The final task we are required for is marching band. Marching and playing is a huge part of our job and is easier to learn when the band is balanced and when you have experienced players next to you to help you out.

As an extra task during the week, on the Thursday night the band provided a band for the dining out of the Commandant of Kneller Hall, Colonel Cuthbert-Brown CBE. A small 18 piece played in Student Bandmasters’, Sergeants’ and Warrant Officers’ messes. The band was conducted by Student Bandmaster Estelle Gouws. During the dinner we played pieces such as, Les Miserables, Vocalise (Featuring an oboe soloist from the foundation course, I can’t remember his name!) and Pirates of the Caribbean.

Pie in the face polka

For the after dinner entertainment Musician Jo Nethercott and myself performed a clarinet duet called “Pie in the face polka”. We both dressed up in German outfits and played around the tables and drank the guests’ port whilst we were resting. It was our first performance of the duet and it proved to be very popular, so my hopes of burning the outfit were very quickly dashed. Musician Dan Shave then played a solo, Virtuosity, and he even hit the high note at the end which was a novelty.

On the Friday night eight members of the band stayed behind to help the foundation course as they played for Richmond Upon Thames’ Christmas Lights Ceremony. This involved a small march through town then we played carols and Christmas songs on Richmond green. I have to admit… it was pretty cold!

And then a well-earned rest………………………….

Lest we forget

LCpl Damian Dunphy

Lance Corporal Damian Dunphy is a trombonist with the Heavy Cavalry and Cambrai Band (HC&C Band) based in Catterick, North Yorkshire. Prior to joining the HC&C Band on its formation in 2006 he was a member of the King’s Division Waterloo Band, and prior to that the Regimental Band of the Green Howards.

Having served such a length of time in Yorkshire Damian’s roots are well and truly established. He plays for a number of orchestras in the North East in addition to a number of brass bands, he is also the Musical Director of a local brass band and has conducted a number of other bands in the area.

Festival of Remembrance

As any military observer might imagine this time of year is a particularly busy time in the calendar of an Army Band.  The Heavy Cavalry and Cambrai Band are no exception and have motored through the Remembrance season at Prestissimo tempo, if you’ll pardon the musical pun.

The Band have been in concert every weekend over the last few weeks in a spell of concerts which began with the Band straying from its traditional turf by crossing the Lancashire border to perform with the Band and Drums of the Lancashire Fusiliers at the Territorial Army Centre in Bury, Lancashire.  The concert was a fundraising event for the Fusilier Museum in Bury and took the form of a light-hearted foray around the films and shows, the audience were also treated to a black light drum display from the Corps of Drums, Lancashire Fusiliers.  A large and appreciative audience gave a very warm welcome and raised a substantial sum for the Museum’s coffers.

The following Sunday and with our feet very much back on our own Yorkshire patch the Band made the short trip to York to perform at the Festival of Remembrance.  This engagement is an annual fixture in the Band’s diary and for the past few years it has been performed at the Grand Opera House.  This year saw a welcome return to York Barbican following a long and extensive redevelopment. 

The event was organised by the Royal British Legion, who provided the standard bearers for the evening.  With commentary provided by Korean Veteran, John Hammond, the band performed alongside the York Philharmonic Male Voice Choir, York Ladies Choir, York Air Training Corps Cadets and Choirgirl of the Year, Isabel Suckling, who has recently been signed by Decca Records following a nationwide search to find Britain’s most talented choirgirl.

The Heavy Cavalry and Cambrai Band perform at York Barbican.

This was the 21st annual Festival of Remembrance in York and the event would not be complete without the addition of Brian Coates, who provided a selection of jokes under the auspices of ‘The Old Codger’; it is not clear whether ‘The Old Codger’ is older than his jokes or not!

Poppies fell

On Friday 11th November the Band were engaged in what we often refer to as ‘bread and butter’ work. Catterick is the home of Europe’s largest Army Garrison and has an extensive training facility for Phase 1 and 2 recruits, Infantry Training Centre, Catterick (ITC (C)).  As you can imagine the output of troops from the ITC is prolific and the Band spend many of their Fridays on the parade square.  On this occasion the Band provided musical support for no less than three parades, on what was thankfully a mild weathered day. We would like to thank members of the Band of the Royal Regiment of Scotland who assisted us with these parades.

With remembrance still very much to the fore, the following week, Saturday 12th November, the Band were once more in concert, this time at the magnificent Durham Cathedral.   The Band opened the show with a tribute to the ever popular Ron Goodwin before the remainder of the cast were assembled for an evening of music and reflection narrated by the Edinburgh Tattoo’s own Alisdair Hutton.  On this occasion the Band were joined by the Sunderland University Choir, Low Fell Ladies Choir and vocal soloists Graeme Danby, John Rowland, Julie Pendleton, Vicky Guillory and Alison Cochlan. As ever members of all three services were represented amongst the cast and members of the Royal British Legion poignantly lowered their standards for two minutes’ silence as poppies fell from the roof of one of the finest Norman Cathedrals in Europe.

The following morning the Band found itself unusually employed to perform at Catterick Garrison Church for the Garrison’s remembrance service. Since formation in 2006 the Band, and its Catterick based forebears prior to that, have performed in the military remembrance parade at the Memorial Gardens in York. This year however the Band provided musical accompaniment in a Garrison Church which was packed to the rafters. The Church has recently had its heating system renovated and it is something of a rarity to have the Chaplain apologise to the congregation for the excessive heat in the Church!

Prince of Wales’ birthday

Monday morning saw the Band making the brief trip to York to perform in a 21 gun Royal Salute alongside fellow participants from 5 Regiment, Royal Artillery, in the Museum Gardens. The Gun Salute celebrates Royal Anniversaries and is fired from a number of authorised Saluting Stations around the UK and one in Gibraltar. York is the only authorised Saluting Station in the North of England and the occasion this Monday was the celebration of HRH The Prince of Wales’ birthday.

Having had something of a hectic time over the weekend the Band are now enjoying a couple of days off before preparations begin for this weekend’s engagement at the Cenotaph in London, where the Band will be performing in support of one of our affiliated Regiments, The Royal Tank Regiment.

Baton down

Lance Corporal Daniel King is principal clarinettist in the Band of the Royal Corps of Signals (RSIGS BAND). Here he writes about being an Army musician, a role which allows him to perform at many high-profile events across the UK and abroad.

 

The brass section

 

I’m often asked what we do to prepare for a major concert. In this blog I will tell you what normally happens within the few weeks leading up to a concert.

A month or so before a concert the library is given a programme of music by the Director of Music (DOM) or the Bandmaster (BM). Because the music list is out early it gives the band members a chance to look over the music. Concert music is generally much more challenging than marching band and small ensemble music.

There are normally other programmes out at the same time so it is your job to prioritise which pieces need the most attention. It is down to the leaders of each instrumental section to determine what pieces your sections will struggle with. We are usually given time within the working day to have sectional rehearsals.

Within a band you have a lot of experienced musicians as well as younger musicians. The “old and bold” of the band have seen most of the music in the military band repertoire many times before and it is not uncommon to see them helping out the younger members.

The concerts are conducted by the Director of Music (DOM) and Bandmaster (BM). They normally share the amount of pieces between themselves.

In the main practice room the DOM and BM get busy rehearsing the band to ensure that the music is ready to the highest of standard ready to perform out in the public. Some pieces the band know very well so they take minimal rehearsal. Other pieces require lots more time. After playing the pieces in a full band scenario harder parts of the music become more apparent. We are normally given more sectional times at this stage so we can iron out the major difficulties.

The bandmaster in action

I mentioned in my previous blog about the rivalry between the brass and woodwind. There is always ongoing banter about who causes the most ‘issues’ in the pieces. I can confirm that it is most definitely the brass and is obvious to everyone but themselves. They only have to use three fingers, whereas we have to use the whole of our hands. We are definitely the more intelligent.

When the concert day finally comes, we are all well rehearsed and ready to put on a professional show. The band will generally turn up to the concert venue three or four hours before the concert starts. After setting up we do a sound and lighting check. We then have a little time off to prepare our uniforms ready for the concert.

Musician on the steps

Lance Corporal Daniel King is principal clarinettist in the Band of the Royal Corps of Signals (RSIGS BAND). Here he writes about being an Army musician, a role which allows him to perform at many high-profile events across the UK and abroad.

Army musician Lance Corporal Daniel King.

Within the UK many important musical jobs take place at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst. During the last week of September the Band of the Royal Corps of Signals, of which I am principle clarinettist, performed on the steps there. The occasion was the Territorial Army Commissioning parade (Sandhurst has a long-standing tradition of producing the best and this was no exception).

We, along with a few members of the Band of the Light Cavalry, arrived at Sandhurst on Wednesday lunchtime and wasted no time by going straight out to practice on the steps of Old College where the parade would take place. For a fair few of the band, it was their first experience of marching up and down steps whilst playing and luckily it was picked up fairly quickly and with no injuries!

Sandhurst had decided the previous week to go into long sleeve order, so the band were on the steps in barrack dress complete with woolly jumper. To say we were hot was an understatement! For the duration of all the rehearsals over the following days we never received the delights of  shade due to the positioning of old college. For those of you who were not in the UK, this last week was the hottest end of a September for over 100 years with highs of 29C  (84F).

Due to the amount of work during the summer season the band had no problems with this. The soldiers however….. did! No fewer than four soldiers on parade were drilled by the Academy Sergeant Major to ensure that they didn’t faint!

Royal Signals band at Royal Military Academy Sandhurst

Begone Dull Care…

On the day of the parade it got just that little bit hotter. We started the day with the commissioning service in the Academy chapel. The acoustics in this church are fantastic and it is a thoroughly enjoyable place to play in. You need so little effort to produce a stunning sound.

On completion of the service, it was a fairly quick turnaround ready to march on parade.

With the band ready, the troops formed up behind us awaiting the Academy Sergeant Major’s commands to get on parade. We stepped off in quick time leading the troops on to the square where we broke off and marched up the steps. For all the rehearsals so far we had been wearing normal shoes but for the parade we wear spurs. Before the parade, bets were made on who was going to trip down the steps. My money was on our first cornet player but he stayed on both feet!

The parade continued with the adjutant coming on to parade and finally the inspecting officer. Due to the high status of this parade, HRH Prince Edward The Earl of Wessex was in attendance. After inspecting the troops and the band he gave a speech. To finish the parade the band marched off the steps and formed up just to the side so that the troops could slow march up the steps to the music ‘God Bless the Prince of Wales’ and ‘Auld Lang Syne’ to receive their commission. With the new officers in the building the band marched off the parade square to the Corps of Army Music March and our own, ‘Begone Dull Care’.

As well as providing music for the parade the band provided musical support for the commissioning dinner on the Thursday night. A brass quintet played during the dinner and the rest of the band joined in for a cabaret marching display at the end of the dinner. The band entertained the dinner with pieces featuring the Post Horns, the Lord of the Dance and finally another piece featuring the less musical trombones (I’m a woodwind player and the rivalry runs deep with the brass). We finished with the regimental marches of those dining.

To conclude, this was a very good experience for the band especially some of the younger members.