Monday. This was the final week of our training and everybody was looking forward to passing out. The day started at 0830 with a rig up for Open Day, we played through Gael Force and Esprit de Corps before stand easy. After a cup of tea it was time to rehearse orchestra and then Big Band and choir. The evening was spent in the NAAFI socialising with friends.
Tuesday. We started work at 0730 this morning at HMS Excellent on the parade
square practising for the Beat the Retreat. After stand easy we returned to
RMSM to practise for concert band and then Big Band and choir again. Later that
evening the clarinet section said goodbye to the professor of clarinet, Mr Kennard
who was leaving that week; a good time was had by all.
Wednesday. This morning we started at 0730 again on the parade square at HMS
Excellent. This was the final run through of the display and it seemed to go
without a hitch. The final rehearsals of the Big Band also took place and everyone
seemed to be on a high for the big day tomorrow. After loading the wagon everybody
decided to have a quiet night in and relax before the big day.
Thursday. The final day of training had finally come and we were all in anticipatory
mood. We started at half eight at the Guildhall and the bands really worked
hard in the final run-through putting the finishing touches on the pieces before
the concert. After lunch we all met our parents and at 1400 the concert started.
It opened with a set from the concert band, then the prize-giving before the
Big Band, choir and orchestra. The day was traditionally finished off with Beating
the Retreat in the Guildhall Square. This was our last day in training and we
all went our separate ways to the five bands.