35 members of the CCF of The Duke of York’s Royal Military School have been given the honour of playing at the coronation of King Charles III. They will be performing throughout the coronation from Parliament Square to entertain the crowds. Participating in the King’s Coronation are 35 Dukies from the Military Marching Band, including Drum Major Kieran Nasau, Band JUO Ben Thorne and Band CSM Charlotte Trimby.
It is of great honour and privilege to be asked to perform at such a prestigious event. Pupils from the school attended the past coronation of the late Queen Elizabeth II on 2nd June 1953, so a very special time for the school in being asked to attend in a ceremonial capacity with their chance to play for the King and escort the Royal British Legion and the banners of all 6 cadet forces across Westminster bridge.
As one of the largest Combined Cadet Force contingents, The Duke of York’s Royal Military School is also the only state full-boarding school in the country. Members of its military band are from years 9-13 and selected for their musical talent and enthusiasm. They have rehearsals 3 times a week regularly, stepping this up in preparation for their part within the coronation of King Charles III. They have had some amazing opportunities to play such as at Twickenham Stadium for the England/Argentina game and the police passing out Parade in Hendon. However, the coronation of King Charles is definitely one for the school’s history books.
Music is a large part of both the Army Cadets and Combined Cadet Force syllabus for those who choose a military music path. The Army Cadets offers free music tuition to members of its Cadet Force across Kent and the country for children aged between 12 and 18. Cadets are also able to gain BTEC qualifications in music from the Cadet Forces equivalent to a GCSE. There is a whole range of instruments supported within the Army Cadets including pipes & Drums. Cadets have been taken across the world to play at military and civilian engagements.
To join as a cadet or volunteer please visit the Army Cadets website where you can find more information where anyone is able to join the community cadets, Army Cadet Force where a combined cadet force isn’t available in your school.
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