RN Volunteer Band Britannia Royal Naval College

Maj Phil Watson RM (Rtd)

As the youngest member and the daughter of the director of the BRNC Band, it was inevitable that in my Dad’s Army of musicians I would be resigned to the role of Private Pike, thus becoming the butt of many jokes. Nevertheless, I can cope with receiving the brunt of cheap punts by the (ex) Major Watson due to the benefits that are reaped from performing in such a band.

Our debut at Caspar John Hall was met by a packed and expectant audience at Christmas and they were not disappointed, judging from the two standing ovations from our more enthusiastic than agile admirers. The concerts were a veritable success, featuring among many other things the Corps of Drums from CTCRM Band, which delighted the audience and terrified the first row with their rapidly moving drumsticks a mere foot from their faces. I had the pleasure of being the helpless victim of a magic trick, being suspended on a plank unsupported to the nostalgic refrains of Moon River, a stunt which baffled most of the Band itself. A stirring rendition of The Gael was also performed, with a monologue from Les Sheppard and soloists including James Harris on Soprano Sax, Sid Davis on violin and two Naval Officer Cadets who helped us out. This rousing performance was one of the highlights of our very first concert.

BRNC Volunteer Band during The Gael

We also provided the soundtrack to the Christmas lights being switched on in Dartmouth. The loyalty of the locals was apparent from their willingness to ignore the elements and arrive to listen appreciatively, the rain dripping off them akin to a gaggle of gargoyles (in everything but looks, of course).

The Band light the Christmas lights in Dartmouth

The Band is also performing other highly important musical tasks; such as supplying a musical accompaniment to the chatter at Young Officers' dinners. As a first-timer playing at one of these dinners, I must confess I was taken aback by how reminiscent it all was of school lunch times, right along with the rampant, yet innovative, use of the tables as percussion instruments.

But it’s all part of the experience; the BRNC Band of Dartmouth is performing a musical role in the College as well as filling the hole in the Dartmothians’ hearts that the recently departed Royal Marines Band have left.
The Band is currently preparing for our second concert, on the 31st March to conclude the month on a musical high, featuring a plethora of folk music. A Big Band has also emerged from the depths of the brass and woodwind section, in order to provide the soundtrack to the College’s own take on Strictly Come Dancing. The combination of swing classics and other pieces are being rehearsed to accompany the flurry of sequin-encrusted Lycra that will no doubt be witnessed marching across the dance floor.

BRNC band in concert

The Band look forward to a number of engagements this year, but in particular the Volunteer Band Festival which will hopefully be an occasion of comradely enjoyment, if not melodious triumph.

Lydia

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Last updated 10 August 2010