| The
Royal Marines Band Service
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The Royal Marines Band Service by John Ambler This book marks the 100th Anniversary of the formation of the Royal Naval School of Music at Eastney Barracks, Portsmouth and the subsequent amalgamation with the Royal Marines Divisional Bands to form the present day Royal Marines Band Service in 1950. This profusely illustrated book tells the fascinating story of the development of today's Service, arguably the finest in the world, which is responsible for providing music for the Royal Navy as well as for the Royal Marines. The first part of the book traces the development of the bands serving at sea and on land until 1950. Using the stories of the men themselves it explains why Band Service losses were so high in both world wars. The second part of the book tells the story of the consolidated Royal Marines Band Service that has overcome savage cuts to become a professional, highly skilled musical force that has proved its versatility whether it be dealing with terrorist bombing or military action in the Falklands, Kosovo or Iraq. The appendices are about many specific topics including a listing of Royal Marines Band recordings, details of appearances at major events and information regarding uniform and equipment. Through
careful research in official files and discussions with many past
and present members of the bands the author provides a balanced account
of the story of the men and women who, wearing their white helmets
and marching in straight lines, constitute the Bands of Her Majesty's
Royal Marines. PUBLICATION 2003 ISBN 0 9536163 2 0 ORDER
THE BOOK |
