The Guards Division Corps of Drums Association
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Updated 17th January 2007
GUARDS DIVISION
CORPS OF DRUMS ASSOCIATION
Gentlemen,
First of all I hope you and your families had an enjoyable and peaceful Christmas, except perhaps for a stolen hour or so for a little private Flute, Side Drum, or Bugle practice! Also, every good wishes for the New Year. I had hoped to get this News Letter out to you before now, but due to a surprise family trip to Iceland over the New Year period, my intentions were scuppered. However, I feel under the circumstances, a few days will not go amiss!
After having had a busy time with Practice Sessions and Engagements during 2006, our commitments for 2007 are taking a similar path. Feedback from our performances during last year have been positive and appreciative, particularly as far as the quality of playing, bearing and turnout is concerned.
Congratulation to all involved, I feel sure the best is yet to come.
PAST ENGAGEMENTS 2006.
THE HENLEY SHOW SATURDAY 9TH September 2006.
The weather on the day was very warm, so to be tented by the side of the Guards Division Drinks Bar was much appreciated, and knowing from experience “Drummers Needs” this arrangement was astutely organized by Major General the Lord Alvingham. Our grateful thanks Sir. Our performance in the main arena took place about 14.00 hrs, immediately after the Musical Ride by the Household Cavalry, so what with the horse ruts in the grass, and the piles of paraphernalia for horse jumps in the arena, our marching display was somewhat difficult, but still managed to make a good fist of it We played another Static program around the tented area later in the afternoon, and then closed the Show proceedings with a Retreat Beating at 17.00 hrs, needless to say, our Silver Bugler, Chris Evans sounded a fine Retreat, which was very much appreciated by the Show Committee, some of whom were from the Guards Division family background.
THE GRENADIER GUARDS ASSn, WINDSOR BRANCH COCKTAIL PARTY, SATURDAY 16TH September
We were pleased to be on home ground at the Grenadier Club Windsor, for their Branch Celebration of the Regiments 350th Anniversary. We were invited to play, and partake in the Party along with our wives or Partners, this was a fun occasion where we managed to get some audience participation, playing with all sorts of percussion instruments. It seems that our Program of Music was very much appreciated by the Branch members, and according to the majority, helped to make the evening a resounding success.
BRISTOL CITY REMEMBRANCE DAY PARADE SUNDAY 12th November 2006
Due to an early start on the Sunday Morning, the logistics of arranging for all our drummers to be at the right place at the right time had to be very precise. With thanks to John Morgan, his brother Peter and other Bristol Branch members of the Grenadier Guards Association, overnight stays were arranged for those who would have had to travel too far on the day. The Parade itself went off without any serious hitches, and we were delighted to have fronted the Guards Division Veterans, and others from various military backgrounds. The veterans were commanded by Major General Webb-Carter, a Grenadier of great distinction, and who presides over the Army Benevolent Fund, he was naturally interested in our Corps of Drums, and was most flattering about our turnout and musical ability. It appears, we have been invited to repeat the engagement in 2007.
THE TOWER OF LONDON, HANGING OF THE BRICK CEREMONY, Friday 15th December 2006
We finished the year with the very enjoyable engagement at the Tower of London, playing for the Yeoman Warders
Hanging of the Brick Ceremony, the Theme this year being “Dads Army” with many of the drummers as well as the Warders entering into the spirit of things by wearing the appropriate dress. Yet again our turnout in numbers was very respectable, with ten Bb Flutes six F Flutes, five side drummers, one bass drum, and our guest cymbal player. During our program inside the Yeoman Warders Mess, we managed to entice members of the audience to join us with all sorts of percussion instruments to the tune of Flag & Empire, also the singing of Christmas Carols. Also, our Bass Drummer Adrian Sherratt presented the Yeomen Warders Club, a bound copy of his Father’s service, both as a Grenadier, and as a Yeoman Warder. Brian Harrod presented a Print on behalf of the Corps of Drums Society. As usual, we were very well catered for in terms of food and drink, and to be sure, Kevin Kitcher our main host, certainly knows the way to a Drummers Heart.
FUTURE ENGAGEMENTS FOR 2007
Sunday 14th January 2007 Practice Windsor Club 10.45 hrs am
Sunday 11th February 2007 Practice Windsor Club 10.45 hrs am
Saturday 24th March 2007 Coldstream Guards Drummers Reunion at Windsor (TBC)
Sunday 15th April 2007 Practice Windsor Club 10.45 hrs am
Saturday 5th May 2007 Coldstream Guards London Branch Dinner (Details to follow)
Sunday 20th May 2007 Grenadier Guards Black Sunday (Diary information only)
Sat/Sun 9th 10th June 2007 HACDA Bisley weekend (Details to follow) Vol.
Saturday 23rd June 2007 Walsall Veterans Day (Details to follow)
Sunday 1st July 2007 Suffolk Grenadier Guards Veterans day (TBC)
Sunday 8th July 2007 Grenadier Day, Burtons Court London. (Diary information only)
NB No Practice or Engagements during August
Sunday 9th September 2007 Music Session, Royal Hospital Chelsea (Details to follow)
Sunday 14th October 2007 Practice Windsor Club 10.45 hrs am
Sunday 11th November 2007 Remembrance Parade Bristol/Portsmouth (TBC)
Friday (Date TBC) Brick Hanging HM Tower of London (Details to follow)
NB All Practice meetings are to be held in the Grenadier Guards Association Club Windsor (Unless otherwise stated)
By kind permission of the Branch President.
All members are reminded that they should be in possession of their Association Membership Card at all times when on Association business - this particularly applies when requiring access to a Military establishment.
INSTRUMENTS AND EQUIPMENT
We have now taken delivery of our new Bass Drum, emblazoned by Chris Collins; our delighted Drummer Adrian Sherratt gave it its first outing on the Bristol Remembrance Day Parade in November last. We still await a new Carrying Case for it, but this is due any day now. We have also ordered six Limpet Practice Pads for the percussion stand.
MUSIC LIBRARY
Our library now consists of 230 scores, so plenty to choose from for the 2007 regular playing list. The playing list of suggestions collated from all members, will be distributed at the next practice session. If you are unable tp attend, and would like a copy, please let me know, so as to send either electronically or by post. This includes Parts should you wish to do some individual practice at home.
FINANCES
Despite all the expenditure on instruments etc. during 2006, we still have a healthy bank balance in excess of £1,300. At this point, may I remind all members that the Annual Subscriptions of £5.00 are now due. So please send your remittance to the Treasurer, Stuart Sutton, failure to do so by the 1st March 2007, will indicate that you no longer wish to be a Association Member, and further News Letters will not be sent to you. As you know, we do add to our revenue a healthy sum of money from the raffles held at each Practice Session, we are now looking for more prize donations, so if you have any unwanted Christmas Presents suitable for the purpose, they would be much appreciated. My thanks to those members who have submitted books of Postage stamps, such a great help in the distribution of the news letter,
WELFARE
After the sad loss of his wife during the latter part of last year, Bob Bennett has fallen ill, and is, as I write, he is in intensive care in Wexham Park Hospital Slough. It seems he is making steady progress, we wish him well, and look forward to seeing him in attendance with us again in the not too distant future. David Bell had a triple heart bypass in December, and is making speedy recovery, and John Longhurst continues to soldier on despite all the medication he is receiving, our good wishes to David, John and their families. Please be reminded, that should you know of, or hear of any Drummer experiencing ill health or hard times, Brian Lane, our Welfare Officer would very much like to be informed. Brian has much experience in advising, which direction to go for any available help.
WHERE ARE THEY NOW?
The 1st Battalion Grenadier Guards are in Lille Barrack Aldershot.
The 1st Battalion Coldstream Guards are in Victoria Barrack Windsor.
The 1st Battalion Scots Guards are still in Munster Germany
The 1st Battalion Irish Guards are in Mons Barracks Aldershot
The 1st Battalion Welsh Guards are in Wellington Barracks London.
It appears that the Grenadiers and Coldstream will be deployed to Afghanistan during 2007. We wish them a safe and successful Tours.
THE QUEEN’S BIRTHDAY PARADE AND REVIEWS.
The Queen’s Birthday Parade will be held on Saturday 16th June 2007, with the Colonel’s Review on 9th June, and the Major General’s Review on 2nd June. The Colour will be Trooped by Number 7 Company Coldstream Guards. Ticket Prices are:-
The Birthday Parade£20
The Birthday Parade (inner Line Sentries)Free
The Colonel’s Review,£10
The Major General’s ReviewFree
Our Branch has been allocated two seated at £20 each, and four Inner Line of Sentries, Free of Charge. Should you wish to apply for these places, please contact me as soon as possible.
HOUSEHOLD DIVISION BEATING RETREAT.
The Mounted Bands of the Household Cavalry, and the Mass Bands of the Foot Guards will Beat Retreat on Horseguards on Wednesday 6th and 7th June 2007. Performances commence at 7pm and lasts approximately one hour. Ticket prices are £12 and £10 (all reserved seating) The following discounts are available:-
10% discounts on all tickets to those booking ten seats or more.
Family tickets in the £10 seats for two Adults and up to 2 children aged 16 and under, cost £25.
For tickets and payment details please consult Peter Taylor, Secretary.
THE GUARDS CHAPEL
The Chapel is open to the public for visits during the week between 10.00am and 4pm 10.00am and 3.00pm on Fridays with services each Sunday. Entry from Birdcage Walk.
The Guards Chapel Choir and Musicians from the Household Division Band, present an Easter Choral concert at the Guards Chapel, Wellington Barracks, on Wednesday 4th April 2007 at 7.15pm Tickets are £12.50 each. Telephone the Credit card Line on 020-7839-5323 between 9 am and 4 pm Monday to Friday from 8th January, or apply by post to Household Division Funds, Horse Guards, Whitehall London. SW1A 2AX. Cheques (Sterling only) Postal Orders made payable to “Household Division Funds”.
THE GUARDS MUSEUM
The Guards Museum is in Wellington Barracks, Birdcage Walk, London SW1. Opening Times: Daily 10am to 4pm (Last admission 3.30pm) Open Bank Holidays except Christmas Day. The opening times maybe restricted on days of ceremonial occasions (Please ring 020-7414-3271/3428 for details)
RECRUITING
As mentioned in the last News Letter, we are due to be highlighted in various Magazine publications during this year. Some of our members are continuing to give us regular talk discussions on various Regimental Drummers Forums, and of course, we do have a link page on the Yorkshire Corps of Drums Website. However, there are several Grenadier and Coldstream Drummers who have recently joined our ranks, with a few standing in the wings waiting for the last little push!!
CONTACTS
For your information, the Telehone Number of the Grenadier Club, Windsor is:- 01753 851506
Peter Taylor Hon Secretary Brian Lane Chairman/WelfareStuart Sutton Treasurer
“Lynton” Drome Path “Rhooti” 10, Fortrose Close 13, Vowley View
Winnersh College Town WOOTON BASSETT
WORKINGHAM. SANHURST Wiltshire
Berks RG41 5HB Berks GU47 0XF SN4 8HT
Tel H 0118 9793372 Tel H 01344 778255 Tel H 01753 852969
M 07890 875966 M 07961 926434 M 07831 179766
Peter Taylor.
Hon Secretary The Guards Division Corps of Drums Association.
Tel: 01189793372 email peter.taylor65@btopenworld.com
CORPS OF DRUMS ASSOCIATION
Gentlemen,
First of all I hope you and your families had an enjoyable and peaceful Christmas, except perhaps for a stolen hour or so for a little private Flute, Side Drum, or Bugle practice! Also, every good wishes for the New Year. I had hoped to get this News Letter out to you before now, but due to a surprise family trip to Iceland over the New Year period, my intentions were scuppered. However, I feel under the circumstances, a few days will not go amiss!
After having had a busy time with Practice Sessions and Engagements during 2006, our commitments for 2007 are taking a similar path. Feedback from our performances during last year have been positive and appreciative, particularly as far as the quality of playing, bearing and turnout is concerned.
Congratulation to all involved, I feel sure the best is yet to come.
PAST ENGAGEMENTS 2006.
THE HENLEY SHOW SATURDAY 9TH September 2006.
The weather on the day was very warm, so to be tented by the side of the Guards Division Drinks Bar was much appreciated, and knowing from experience “Drummers Needs” this arrangement was astutely organized by Major General the Lord Alvingham. Our grateful thanks Sir. Our performance in the main arena took place about 14.00 hrs, immediately after the Musical Ride by the Household Cavalry, so what with the horse ruts in the grass, and the piles of paraphernalia for horse jumps in the arena, our marching display was somewhat difficult, but still managed to make a good fist of it We played another Static program around the tented area later in the afternoon, and then closed the Show proceedings with a Retreat Beating at 17.00 hrs, needless to say, our Silver Bugler, Chris Evans sounded a fine Retreat, which was very much appreciated by the Show Committee, some of whom were from the Guards Division family background.
THE GRENADIER GUARDS ASSn, WINDSOR BRANCH COCKTAIL PARTY, SATURDAY 16TH September
We were pleased to be on home ground at the Grenadier Club Windsor, for their Branch Celebration of the Regiments 350th Anniversary. We were invited to play, and partake in the Party along with our wives or Partners, this was a fun occasion where we managed to get some audience participation, playing with all sorts of percussion instruments. It seems that our Program of Music was very much appreciated by the Branch members, and according to the majority, helped to make the evening a resounding success.
BRISTOL CITY REMEMBRANCE DAY PARADE SUNDAY 12th November 2006
Due to an early start on the Sunday Morning, the logistics of arranging for all our drummers to be at the right place at the right time had to be very precise. With thanks to John Morgan, his brother Peter and other Bristol Branch members of the Grenadier Guards Association, overnight stays were arranged for those who would have had to travel too far on the day. The Parade itself went off without any serious hitches, and we were delighted to have fronted the Guards Division Veterans, and others from various military backgrounds. The veterans were commanded by Major General Webb-Carter, a Grenadier of great distinction, and who presides over the Army Benevolent Fund, he was naturally interested in our Corps of Drums, and was most flattering about our turnout and musical ability. It appears, we have been invited to repeat the engagement in 2007.
THE TOWER OF LONDON, HANGING OF THE BRICK CEREMONY, Friday 15th December 2006
We finished the year with the very enjoyable engagement at the Tower of London, playing for the Yeoman Warders
Hanging of the Brick Ceremony, the Theme this year being “Dads Army” with many of the drummers as well as the Warders entering into the spirit of things by wearing the appropriate dress. Yet again our turnout in numbers was very respectable, with ten Bb Flutes six F Flutes, five side drummers, one bass drum, and our guest cymbal player. During our program inside the Yeoman Warders Mess, we managed to entice members of the audience to join us with all sorts of percussion instruments to the tune of Flag & Empire, also the singing of Christmas Carols. Also, our Bass Drummer Adrian Sherratt presented the Yeomen Warders Club, a bound copy of his Father’s service, both as a Grenadier, and as a Yeoman Warder. Brian Harrod presented a Print on behalf of the Corps of Drums Society. As usual, we were very well catered for in terms of food and drink, and to be sure, Kevin Kitcher our main host, certainly knows the way to a Drummers Heart.
FUTURE ENGAGEMENTS FOR 2007
Sunday 14th January 2007 Practice Windsor Club 10.45 hrs am
Sunday 11th February 2007 Practice Windsor Club 10.45 hrs am
Saturday 24th March 2007 Coldstream Guards Drummers Reunion at Windsor (TBC)
Sunday 15th April 2007 Practice Windsor Club 10.45 hrs am
Saturday 5th May 2007 Coldstream Guards London Branch Dinner (Details to follow)
Sunday 20th May 2007 Grenadier Guards Black Sunday (Diary information only)
Sat/Sun 9th 10th June 2007 HACDA Bisley weekend (Details to follow) Vol.
Saturday 23rd June 2007 Walsall Veterans Day (Details to follow)
Sunday 1st July 2007 Suffolk Grenadier Guards Veterans day (TBC)
Sunday 8th July 2007 Grenadier Day, Burtons Court London. (Diary information only)
NB No Practice or Engagements during August
Sunday 9th September 2007 Music Session, Royal Hospital Chelsea (Details to follow)
Sunday 14th October 2007 Practice Windsor Club 10.45 hrs am
Sunday 11th November 2007 Remembrance Parade Bristol/Portsmouth (TBC)
Friday (Date TBC) Brick Hanging HM Tower of London (Details to follow)
NB All Practice meetings are to be held in the Grenadier Guards Association Club Windsor (Unless otherwise stated)
By kind permission of the Branch President.
All members are reminded that they should be in possession of their Association Membership Card at all times when on Association business - this particularly applies when requiring access to a Military establishment.
INSTRUMENTS AND EQUIPMENT
We have now taken delivery of our new Bass Drum, emblazoned by Chris Collins; our delighted Drummer Adrian Sherratt gave it its first outing on the Bristol Remembrance Day Parade in November last. We still await a new Carrying Case for it, but this is due any day now. We have also ordered six Limpet Practice Pads for the percussion stand.
MUSIC LIBRARY
Our library now consists of 230 scores, so plenty to choose from for the 2007 regular playing list. The playing list of suggestions collated from all members, will be distributed at the next practice session. If you are unable tp attend, and would like a copy, please let me know, so as to send either electronically or by post. This includes Parts should you wish to do some individual practice at home.
FINANCES
Despite all the expenditure on instruments etc. during 2006, we still have a healthy bank balance in excess of £1,300. At this point, may I remind all members that the Annual Subscriptions of £5.00 are now due. So please send your remittance to the Treasurer, Stuart Sutton, failure to do so by the 1st March 2007, will indicate that you no longer wish to be a Association Member, and further News Letters will not be sent to you. As you know, we do add to our revenue a healthy sum of money from the raffles held at each Practice Session, we are now looking for more prize donations, so if you have any unwanted Christmas Presents suitable for the purpose, they would be much appreciated. My thanks to those members who have submitted books of Postage stamps, such a great help in the distribution of the news letter,
WELFARE
After the sad loss of his wife during the latter part of last year, Bob Bennett has fallen ill, and is, as I write, he is in intensive care in Wexham Park Hospital Slough. It seems he is making steady progress, we wish him well, and look forward to seeing him in attendance with us again in the not too distant future. David Bell had a triple heart bypass in December, and is making speedy recovery, and John Longhurst continues to soldier on despite all the medication he is receiving, our good wishes to David, John and their families. Please be reminded, that should you know of, or hear of any Drummer experiencing ill health or hard times, Brian Lane, our Welfare Officer would very much like to be informed. Brian has much experience in advising, which direction to go for any available help.
WHERE ARE THEY NOW?
The 1st Battalion Grenadier Guards are in Lille Barrack Aldershot.
The 1st Battalion Coldstream Guards are in Victoria Barrack Windsor.
The 1st Battalion Scots Guards are still in Munster Germany
The 1st Battalion Irish Guards are in Mons Barracks Aldershot
The 1st Battalion Welsh Guards are in Wellington Barracks London.
It appears that the Grenadiers and Coldstream will be deployed to Afghanistan during 2007. We wish them a safe and successful Tours.
THE QUEEN’S BIRTHDAY PARADE AND REVIEWS.
The Queen’s Birthday Parade will be held on Saturday 16th June 2007, with the Colonel’s Review on 9th June, and the Major General’s Review on 2nd June. The Colour will be Trooped by Number 7 Company Coldstream Guards. Ticket Prices are:-
The Birthday Parade£20
The Birthday Parade (inner Line Sentries)Free
The Colonel’s Review,£10
The Major General’s ReviewFree
Our Branch has been allocated two seated at £20 each, and four Inner Line of Sentries, Free of Charge. Should you wish to apply for these places, please contact me as soon as possible.
HOUSEHOLD DIVISION BEATING RETREAT.
The Mounted Bands of the Household Cavalry, and the Mass Bands of the Foot Guards will Beat Retreat on Horseguards on Wednesday 6th and 7th June 2007. Performances commence at 7pm and lasts approximately one hour. Ticket prices are £12 and £10 (all reserved seating) The following discounts are available:-
10% discounts on all tickets to those booking ten seats or more.
Family tickets in the £10 seats for two Adults and up to 2 children aged 16 and under, cost £25.
For tickets and payment details please consult Peter Taylor, Secretary.
THE GUARDS CHAPEL
The Chapel is open to the public for visits during the week between 10.00am and 4pm 10.00am and 3.00pm on Fridays with services each Sunday. Entry from Birdcage Walk.
The Guards Chapel Choir and Musicians from the Household Division Band, present an Easter Choral concert at the Guards Chapel, Wellington Barracks, on Wednesday 4th April 2007 at 7.15pm Tickets are £12.50 each. Telephone the Credit card Line on 020-7839-5323 between 9 am and 4 pm Monday to Friday from 8th January, or apply by post to Household Division Funds, Horse Guards, Whitehall London. SW1A 2AX. Cheques (Sterling only) Postal Orders made payable to “Household Division Funds”.
THE GUARDS MUSEUM
The Guards Museum is in Wellington Barracks, Birdcage Walk, London SW1. Opening Times: Daily 10am to 4pm (Last admission 3.30pm) Open Bank Holidays except Christmas Day. The opening times maybe restricted on days of ceremonial occasions (Please ring 020-7414-3271/3428 for details)
RECRUITING
As mentioned in the last News Letter, we are due to be highlighted in various Magazine publications during this year. Some of our members are continuing to give us regular talk discussions on various Regimental Drummers Forums, and of course, we do have a link page on the Yorkshire Corps of Drums Website. However, there are several Grenadier and Coldstream Drummers who have recently joined our ranks, with a few standing in the wings waiting for the last little push!!
CONTACTS
For your information, the Telehone Number of the Grenadier Club, Windsor is:- 01753 851506
Peter Taylor Hon Secretary Brian Lane Chairman/WelfareStuart Sutton Treasurer
“Lynton” Drome Path “Rhooti” 10, Fortrose Close 13, Vowley View
Winnersh College Town WOOTON BASSETT
WORKINGHAM. SANHURST Wiltshire
Berks RG41 5HB Berks GU47 0XF SN4 8HT
Tel H 0118 9793372 Tel H 01344 778255 Tel H 01753 852969
M 07890 875966 M 07961 926434 M 07831 179766
Peter Taylor.
Hon Secretary The Guards Division Corps of Drums Association.
Tel: 01189793372 email peter.taylor65@btopenworld.com
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News Letter No 6