RAF Music Services News

Inspiring the next generation

The Band of the Royal Air Force Regiment spent a week in Lossiemouth, Scotland where they performed concerts in nine schools over five days.

Sergeant Hamish Dean devised and compered a programme of music to give pupils an insight into the wind band, demonstrate different musical instruments, and most importantly give them a chance to engage and be part of the concert.  He said:

It was great to be able to capture the attention of so many children and have their undivided attention on live music for an hour. 

RAF personnel speak to an audience of young people.
Sergeant Hamish Dean encouraging pupils at Milne’s High School.

In their very own X Factor-style contest, the children became judges to decide which section impressed them the most; the Brass section reigned supreme over the Woodwind and Percussion with their rendition of the Star Wars theme.  Whilst the main aim was for them to have fun and enjoy the concert, there were still lessons to be learnt.

The pupils were introduced to each instrumental section of the Band and taught about the role of the conductor.  Many of them also heard Mozart for the first time… with a twist! Senior Aircraftman Alexander Joyce performed Mozart’s Concerto for Horn… and toilet!  The toilet humour was a particular favourite and was met with giggles from pupils (and adults!) of all ages. 

Senior Aircraftman Alex Joyce performs Mozart’s Concerto for Horn… on the toilet!

Under the baton of Warrant Officer Stephen McGuinness, the pupils heard music from Frozen, Ed Sheeran and The Greatest Showman, as well as a fantastic arrangement by Corporal Jonathan Read, compiling 16 TV and Film themes for the pupils to name out loud.  In addition to members of the Band moonlighting on Boomwackers during the Ed Sheeran Medley, Corporal Sarah Gibb and Senior Aircraftman Thomas Crowley also gave their best Sandy and Danny impressions singing the songs from Grease

RAF musicians play boomwhackers.
Members of the Band enjoying playing Boomwackers.

The Band were accompanied by Squadron Leader George Morris, the Senior Careers Engagement Officer for Scotland and Northern Ireland, who answered questions the pupils had about careers in the RAF.  He expressed how successful the week had been, saying;

As any teacher can attest, it takes something special to engross an entire school year group… but the Band, with professional aplomb and attention-grabbing razzmatazz, achieved this in every school.

The Band had a fantastic week bringing a taste of RAF Music to over 2000 school pupils in Lossiemouth and the surrounding areas, demonstrating the professionalism and excellence of the RAF and inspiring the next generation of musicians and airmen. 

Written by Senior Aircraftwoman Sarah Smith.

Photographs taken by Senior Aircraftwoman Sian Stephens.

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