Members of the Royal Marines School of Music (RMSoM) with staff and two trained ranks, spent a rewarding weekend with Brentwood Imperial Youth Band (BIYB), showcasing the exciting career options offered in the band service.
Led by Assistant Director of Music Training, Captain Phil Trudgeon RM (36), Bugle/drum instructors from RMSoM delivered engaging workshops, whilst Capt Trudgeon rehearsed the Youth band for a forthcoming Christmas concert. The Royal Marines then hosted a question-and-answer session after lunch.
Among the RM musicians visiting were two former members of the Bentwood Band: Recently promoted Band Lance-Corporal Chris Turrell, currently serving in RM Band Portsmouth (Royal Band) and Musn Cowley, who is currently in training studying Flute and Sax at RMSoM.
Music was played by Stevie Wonder to 90s pop, as well as music from The Lion King, with all enjoying the fun environment.
Musn Cowley said: “It was very exciting to return to the band that had motivated me to join the Royal Marines and show them how much the Royal Marines had done for me.”
She added: “Capt Trudgeon encouraged the youngsters to relax and enjoy themselves, he had whole sections of the band swinging from side to side or standing up and sitting down in sequence to the music. Everyone had a great time!”
Brentwood Imperial Youth Band were one of the participating Bands in the inaugural Victory Youth Tattoo held in HMNB Portsmouth during May this year, so have now established a firm link with RMSoM.
The Q A was a great success, with an array of questions from the Brentwood musicians, including the importance of sport and fitness. All present were awarded a free RMBS water bottle at the end.
Capt Trudgeon said: “It was fantastic to see all the musicians having so much fun during rehearsals and then asking some really good questions in the afternoon.
“I may be a little biased, but life as a Royal Marine Musician is fantastic, and we all relish the chance to share our experiences with the next generation.” He added, “I’m also pretty sure mine was the biggest smile at the end of the day!”
