This is my second October in the Royal Marines Band Service, although this one
is very different to the first as I was in basic training then. I've now swapped
my weapon and bergan for a cornet and a viola, although an unusual combination
it is due to my extremely small hands, there was no other option.
I started studying the cornet quite late into my second term, this was after failed attempts at the saxophone and clarinet, the first being nearly twice my size and the second too long for me to stretch my thumb. Professor Yates then introduced me to the cornet, which luckily enough for me I quite enjoy. It was a slow beginning on the cornet for me, but I feel I'm making progress, and I'm working towards my T3 exam just before Christmas leave.
As for the viola, I study under Mrs Cresci, and I'm currently studying for a Viola exam before Christmas, but hopefully this won't be as much of a hurdle as my cornet exam.
Life at the Royal Marines School of Music is a busy one, and I have learnt
that time is somewhat golden whilst you're here. With so many events, engagements
and exams to think of hard work is a real must. Nevertheless a great deal of
satisfaction comes from all of the hard work, and every hurdle you come to doesn't
seem that high with oppo's (friends), instructors, professors and the support
staff always close by to give you that leg up and friendly word!
Musn Bailey