2009 has been an exciting time for the band. April saw a change in Directorship of the Band, with Major Sale being posted on promotion to MCM Div in Glasgow. The incoming Director of Music, Captain Ian Johnson takes over before a busy summer season, and the Band are looking forward to a long and successful tour under his leadership.

Fitness and sports have been high on the agenda as the band took part in the annual Triple Crown Competition which took place at Worthy Down Camp and the Band fielded two teams; the first in the Military Skills group, who came in an excellent 3rd place out of 24 teams. The other competed in the March & Shoot challenge and completed their 12 mile march in a very respectable time of 2 hours 36 minutes. This is the first time the Band have entered two teams, and judging by this years results, will not be the last.

Following the band's success in the AGC Triple Crown event the band carried on the fitness theme with a sponsored bike ride. The 'Tour de Corps' event in May consisted of a team of eight band members cycling 623 miles from Catterick to Bovington over 11 days. They visited all of the British Army band locations in England along the way stopping at Catterick, Ingleton, Preston, Manchester, Chilwell, Thurlby, Bassingbourn, Colchester, Chatham, Twickenham and Winchester. The team ended the ride at Bovington Tank Museum to the sound of the remainder of the band playing them in with Congratulations. The project was funded by the Corps of Army Music trust fund for which they are deeply thankful as it could not have taken place without their huge generosity. In return, all sponsor money received was graciously given to them. The level of benevolence shown by so many people in providing sponsors was astounding and rewarded the hard work that the team put into organising, training for and completing the event.

The band introduced a series of free outdoor concerts for 2009. In partnership with Winchester Cathedral the band performed next to the green in the magnificent grounds. The first concert took place on the 3rd of June. Under bright skies the event proved popular as the band performed a rich and varied programme of marches, overtures, waltzes and selections. The concert also featured soloists including the band's principal clarinettist Sergeant Mike Hernandez performing Massenet's 'Meditation' from Thais and the principle trombonist Sergeant Simon Moore playing 'Feeling Good', recently made popular by Michael Buble. The concerts also called used a theme of versatility with the addition of pop groups and vocalists from the band, including one of the newest members to the band Musician Marie Quantrill performing Alicia Keys' 'If I ain't got you'.

In July, the Band undertook this prestigious event playing concert band music all afternoon for the guests of the garden party conjointly with The Band of The Irish Guards. H.M. The Queen privileged the Band with her presence by addressing them personally whilst setting up to thank them for the musical support provided. The day was a success despite the rain attempting to dampen everyone's spirits. The band was very thankful for the canvas covering that proved useful that day!

 

 

The Band has produced their 3rd CD recording, including tracks by Alfred Reed, Percy Grainger & Elgar as well as all the AGC Branch Regimental Marches. The CD which features an eclectic mix of music ranging from traditional and classical themes to Big Band and vocal numbers is on sale now. If you would like a copy of the CD please CONTACT US