COMMENT

Lieutenant Colonel C J Davis
OBE BA(Hons) MMus DMA LRAM RM
Commandant RMSM
and
Principal Director of Music Royal Marines

This term seems to have flown by and we are now fast approaching the Christmas break. For most of us it will be a welcome break from the busy work schedule and a chance to relax with our families; for others though it will be a time of mixed emotions. Obvious concerns of missing loved ones, the strains of separation and concerns for all those deployed overseas at this time. I would like to think that at some time during this festive period we would all take time to think about those away from their families, especially Band Service ranks in Afghanistan. As reported in this issue of the Blue Band Magazine, I know they will be making the most of their present situation, by helping to entertain their comrades, whilst uniquely providing the all important morale component, which Royal Marines musicians have resolutely afforded the Naval Service since the days of Admiral Nelson. Their contribution to securing a more lasting future for the Royal Marines Band Service should also not be underestimated. As military musicians their operational role becomes even more pronounced and provides a proven record of their flexibility and professionalism. I hope their remaining weeks in theatre pass quickly and that they understand that we are immensely proud of their contribution to another chapter of Band Service history. I will close by sharing the words of Colonel Andrew Maynard, the Commanding Officer of the Commando Logistic Regiment, “I have the utmost respect and admiration for the professionalism and courage of the RMBS personnel, whose conduct has directly contributed to the raising of the morale of the Brigade through the application of their skills as musicians, ambulance drivers and stretcher bearers in Afghanistan”.

The 5 newest Royal Warrants holders

November saw our bands performing at remembrance ceremonies throughout the United Kingdom. I am sure many of you witnessed the 90th Anniversary of signing of the Great War Armistice at the Cenotaph on the 11th November. This was a most moving and poignant occasion when the three remaining World War One survivors returned to the Cenotaph to lay wreaths. Each veteran was accompanied by serving members of the Armed Forces who have recently been decorated for bravery. The emotion of the instantaneous applause as the Veterans arrived at the Cenotaph was simply spellbinding. There was also the moment once the wreath had been laid, when the young Royal Marine placed his white gloved hand on the shoulder of the Naval veteran he was looking after. I have to say that even I found myself with blurred vision (must have been something in my eye!). It was an honour to conduct the Tri-Service band and to be able to perform an Elegy composed by Lt Cdr F S Kelly for Rupert Brooke of the Hood Battalion. Kelly survived the Gallipoli slaughter, only to die in one of the last great battles on the Somme in 1916. He lies in Martinsart’s British Cemetery not far from where he fell at the age of 35.

The Band Service Reunion in October was once again a tremendous success, with Warrant Officer Ashley Williams and his team producing a very enjoyable evening for which I am truly grateful. I have to make special mention of the performance by the Royal Marines School of Music Band under the direction Warrant Officer I (Bandmaster) Martin Grace and Drum Major, Colour Sergeant Bugler Graham Scollick. Their performance was greatly appreciated by everyone, they impressed with their drill and music. For the majority of the band it was their first occasion in No 1 full ceremonial and is an example of the high quality of trainee that we now recruit and train.

I am now entering my final few months in the Band Service and as time marches on I find myself reflecting on occasions or performances which will be my last in uniform. I will perform my last duty in Gibraltar when the Corps exercises its Freedom of the City at the end of February. This will be a proud, yet sad occasion for me and will conclude a career which has lasted for 34 years. I am confident that the future of the Band Service is secure. I began my tenure as Principal Director of Music with a Band Service made up of 343 ranks, and I retire with the knowledge that we still have 343 ranks. I began with five bands in five locations and I leave with five bands in five locations. The band at BRNC will move to HMS Collingwood and re-form as part of the initiative to produce a more effective and productive resource for the Fleet. I understand when people become concerned and unhappy at change; however, if we don’t move forward and be proactive, then change will be forced upon us and the result may not be to our liking. I would like to take this opportunity to thank you all for your support and encouragement during my seven years as Principal Director of Music and ask you to continue to support Nick Grace in his custodianship of this organisation which means so much to us all.
It just leaves me now to wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Mr Paddy Semple presents Major Nick Grace with an oil painting of the RM Bands on Horse Guards Parade

Last updated April 2009