Facts & Figures
Active From
2007
Role
Music
Specialism
Marching Fast
Who We Are
The Band and Bugles of The Rifles is comprised of musicians from The Royal Corps of Army Music and is one of 14 Regular Army Bands in the British Army. Based in Winchester, the band was formed from The Band and Bugles of The Light Division on 1st February 2007. This took place in conjunction with the formation of The RIFLES, a new infantry regiment created through the amalgamation of The Devonshire and Dorset Light Infantry, The Light Infantry, The Royal Gloucestershire, Berkshire and Wiltshire Light Infantry and The Royal Green Jackets.
The band and the Regiment’s history is manifested in their green uniforms. The unique coloured jackets and black buttons stem back to the 17th Century when Riflemen were the first British soldiers to wear camouflage instead of red tunics. Silver bugles allowed orders to be passed over long distances because Riflemen operated in dispersed teams with individuals selected for their marksmanship, fitness and initiative. The band’s accelerated pace and 'double' march, still used across the Regiment today, reflect a tradition of quick movement and thinking.
The unique Back-Badge, Croix de Guerre shoulder flashes and each soldier’s rank being worn only on the right arm to prevent it being seen when firing a rifle at the enemy, add further distinction to The Band and Bugles of The Rifles.
The band is the fastest marching band in the British Army adopting a tempo of 140 beats per minute!
Want to join us?
The Royal Corps of Army Music can offer full time employment as a musician within the British Army. A pensionable career potentially to the age of 60. Fantastic travel opportunities with the chance to perform at great venues and events around the world.
The Royal Corps of Army Music is interested in your performance and potential rather than just music qualifications.
Not all musicians have recognised musical qualifications so you may be able to join us based on merit at audition. If you have the required skills or can demonstrate you have the potential we are looking for, we can help maximise your musical development. Interested? Please get in touch here.
Musician Spotlight
I can combine enjoyment for music and also my love for wakeboarding, all in a day’s work. LCpl Soall
Lance Corporal Soal - Clarinet
Lance Corporal (LCpl) Laura Soall started playing the clarinet at school from around age eight. When she was ten, she joined the Brentwood Imperial Youth Band in Essex.
During her time at Brentwood, she played alongside British Army musicians on many occasions. This provided an insight into life as a musician in the British Army and encouraged her to explore what musical opportunities were on offer by The Royal Corps of Army Music.
Aside from music, LCpl Soall has a keen interest in water-based sport. Her talent as a wake boarder and water skier has given her the opportunity to join the Army’s teams and compete at both an Army and tri-service level.
She joined The Royal Corps of Army Music in 2012 and has travelled to countries such as Canada, Montenegro, Albania and Germany during her time with The Band and Bugles of The Rifles.
A musical highlight has been performing at the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo on two occasions.
'Never forget who you are'
recruiting now
British Army Music is recruiting right now. For more information about joining the British Army as a musician, get in touch with the Corps Engagement Team.