Monday
Hooray! The final week of a very long term had arrived, although I must say
it was probably one of the busiest. After PT first thing Monday morning we all
made our way over to the Wardroom gardens for Parade Band. This was the first
time the complete band was present as many members had returned from their trained
bands for Open Day week. This continued until lunch, after which we had Orchestral
and Concert Band rehearsals.
Tuesday
Tuesday morning again began with Parade Band, though thankfully it wasn't as
hot as Monday. The second half of the morning was spent in Big Band rehearsals,
which for a few of us not in Big Band was a well needed break from rehearsals.
The afternoon was again a mixture of Orchestral and Concert Band rehearsals,
thankfully evening rehearsal was cancelled so we all enjoyed a night off!
Wednesdy
Wednesday morning saw us all in Guildhall Square having one final Parade Band
rehearsal before Thursday's Beat Retreat. The rest of the morning was taken
up with concert Band rehearsals and in the afternoon we had a final run through
of the two choir pieces.
Thursday: Royal Marines School of Music Open Day
After an early start we made our way down to the Guildhall to set up and rehearse,
thanks to Sgt Ridley's excellent stage management skills everything went smoothly.
Lunch time soon arrived and everyone was off to meet friends and relatives before
the concert, although I'm sure most of them were found in the pub next door!
2 o'clock arrived and the concert began. Concert Band was the first to perform
during which the members of Troop 01/02 received their certificates and awards.
This took up the first half of the concert. The second half of the concert began
with Big Band conducted by Don Lusher, followed by the orchestra, Ceiledh Band
and Choir, after which we said a sad farewell to our singing Prof, Emma McParland.
Concert Band finished the second half of the concert and then it was a quick
change ready for the Beat Retreat. All the moves were perfectly executed; much
to everyone's relief. Overall an enjoyable day was had by all, especially when
we finally reached the pub, it had been a very long day!
Friday
Friday morning saw the issue of leave passes which were very gratefully received
by everyone. The ABRSM results and certificates were also handed out, well done
to all those students who took exams.
Everyone then said their goodbyes and left for a much looked forward to summer
leave!