The Band of the Royal Air Force Regiment was recently tasked with supporting British Forces events in Gibraltar. The Band fulfilled rehearsals and two engagements during their stay; a concert at St Michael’s Cave and a parade with static musical performance in Casemates Square. Both engagements were a great success with an audience of over 500, including Commander of British Forces Gibraltar, Commodore Tom Guy, and representatives of the Gibraltar Government.
The support provided by RAF Gibraltar enabled this unique engagement opportunity. This is due to the excellent organisation from Squadron Leader (Sqn Ldr) Mike Parker, Bandmaster Warrant Officer Class 2 Tom Rundle-Woods, Corporal Rob Cheshire and Warrant Officer Neil Woods. Devil’s Tower Camp provided the perfect base in terms of accommodation, rehearsal space and access to performance venues.
Playing in St Michael’s Cave enabled the Band to showcase its high level of performance on the concert platform. The Gibraltarians support and enthusiasm of the presence of RAF Music was emphasised by Colonel Campbell-Colquhoun, the British Forces Gibraltar Chief of Staff, who said:
“The Director of Music chose a nicely judged, well mixed programme in St Michael’s Cave and it was brilliantly executed. It was hugely appreciated by all the Gibraltarians I have spoken to since”.
Colonel Campbell-Colquhoun, British Forces Gibraltar Chief of Staff
There was also very positive feedback from Sqn Ldr Michael Parker who said:
“British Forces Gibraltar was delighted to host the Band of the RAF Regiment. The concert in St. Michael’s Cave was a sell-out, the varied programme which climaxed with a “Last Night of the Proms” finale had the audience on their feet, waving their flags and clapping and singing along. It was a huge privilege for me and the other members of the Band of the Royal Gibraltar Regiment to be invited to join the Band; for me, I can honestly say it is the highlight of my playing career!”
Squadron Leader Michael Parker
Playing in Casemates Square enabled tourists and members of the public to enjoy the Band’s music in an open and historic setting, promoting the RAF to a wide audience. Collections at both events by Cadets from No.2 Overseas Gibraltar Sqn Air Cadets raised over £1300 for the RAF Benevolent Fund.
Between rehearsals and engagements, the Band had a wonderful opportunity to take part in a barbeque, social and water activities, as well as exploring Gibraltar. British Forces Gibraltar kindly made available two boats and some paddle boards at their waterfront for the Band to enjoy.
There was a general consensus from the Band that this Gibraltar trip was one of the best and it was trumpeter Air Specialist (Class 1) Marcus Gatenby’s first experience abroad with the Band. He said:
“The trip was simply grand. Playing to a packed St Michael’s Cave with the sound of the band echoing through the rock was something special for sure, as was exploring Gibraltar in our time off. This included hiking up the rock, looking round WWII tunnels, having a barbeque down at the waterfront and venturing out to sea in a couple of speedboats. It was always nice at the end of the day to wind down at the bar and have a good chat.”
Air Specialist (Class 1) Marcus Gatenby, RAF Music Services
