Monday
The morning began with the usual PT session but unfortunately it was a bit tougher
than usual. We had a circuit and a BFT. The rest of Monday was a normal day
with recitals in the afternoon. Well done to Musician Parkin who had her first
clarinet recital today and an extra mention goes to Musician Carter who made
the flute class proud with her rendition of a Fauré piece.
Tuesday
The day began with rounds of the accommodation with the girls doing well and
passing but, unfortunately, the male accommodation was not up to the required
standard with them having a re-scrub. We put on a short performance for the
Chinese Navy Band who were visiting Portsmouth for a few days; Big Band Bash
went down particularly well and we concluded the performance with our Regimental
Marches. We presented them with a printed copy of the Regimental Marches for
them to keep onboard their ship. However, their thanks, in the form of gifts,
overshadowed ours. We were given copies of their marches, a photo of their band
and a decorated Chinese urn. They also presented most of the individuals of
the band with gifts followed by the expected photos!
Wednesday
Wednesday morning's Parade Band, much to the Drum Major's annoyance, did not
go very well at all. We did extra practice during stand easy but this involved
the more basic elements of Parade Band Drill. The afternoon got better with
our Recreational Training session being spent watching the Corps Football team
playing in the finals against Scotland. We won but only just with the final
score being 3-2. The best part of the afternoon, I think everyone will agree,
including the footballers, was the School of Music's Parade Band putting everyone
in good spirits. The band was put together at the last minute at the request
of our newly joined PTI Colour Sergeant Curry. We played the Royal Marines Team
onto the pitch to the Regimental March and entertained the crowd with some of
the more unusual pieces from our repertoire.
Thursday
We started the day with another BFT; sadly some of the troop failed and will
be getting some extra practice at running the test. Most of the school went
to see a Canadian Brass concert and, due to the lack of players, evening rehearsals
were cancelled giving the rest of us the evening off. Glowing reports of Canadian
Brass came back from those who went.
Friday
Another terrible performance by the parade band started the day, although we
thought it was better than Wednesday's effort it still needs a lot of work.
The best part of Friday? The weekend was about to start, although, for those
of us in term 3, we still had Saturday morning practice to go. Hopefully we,
at the Royal Marines School of Music, will have a better week next week.
Musn Clark