|
The Band Of The Grenadier Guards
The Band Of The Grenadier Guards is 49 strong but is capable of forming into a variety of different configurations including: a concert band; marching band; orchestras (from string quartet to full); dance band; big band; dinner trios and quartets; a fanfare of trumpets and an ensemble dressed in and playing the music of the 18th Century.
Although the Band is permitted to tour abroad, to broadcast, make recordings and to undertake private engagements its main function is that of a Regimental Band and, as such, takes its place in State Occasions and at Public Duties. These include the Queen's Birthday Parade (Trooping the Colour), the daily Mounting of the Queen's Guard in the Forecourt of Buckingham Palace and at Windsor Castle, Investitures, State Banquets and at many of Her Majesty's engagements at Buckingham Palace, Windsor Castle and elsewhere. The Band shares these duties with the Bands of the other Foot Guard Regiments - the Coldstream Guards, Scots Guards, Irish Guards and Welsh Guards - and together they form the "Massed Bands" for the Queen's Birthday Parade, Remembrance Sunday Parade (at the Cenotaph, Whitehall) and other major State and Ceremonial occasions.
Despite their musical prowess and impressive ceremonial role every member of the Band has another role also. In the event of war the whole Band provides essential enforcement as Medical Attendants.
The Band is stationed at Wellington Barracks, close to Buckingham Palace, in central London. Members of the Band are able to keep in contact with the remainder of the Regiment, wherever it is serving, through entertainment visits and in the participation of all the major events closely associated with the Grenadier Guards.
|
