By Sonia K & James Kon
The British High Commission is delighted to announce the participation of the UK's Light Cavalry Band in the much-awaited Brunei International Tattoo, held in conjunction with His Majesty the Sultan's 60th birthday celebrations, from July 29 to August 1.
The 31-member band arrived in the Sultanate on July 25, led by Bandmaster and Director of Music Captain Bruce Miller.
The Light Cavalry Band are looking forward to meet their hosts, the Royal Brunei Armed Forces, and to perform for the Brunei audience together with fellow participants from Australia, Brunei Darussalam, China, Indonesia, Jordan and others.
Amongst the famous tunes that the Light Cavalry Band have selected to perform at the event include Colonel Bogey, Ye Banks and Braes, Men of Harlech and The British Grenadiers.
According to Captain Bruce Miller: "The band was formed June 5 this year as a new band and since then we play for many members of the royal family back in UK such as the Queen, the Princess Royal and King Abdullah of Jordan, so it is was quite an exciting time and special time for us to perform here in Brunei."
The Light Cavalry Band was formed on June 2006 following the re-organisation of the British Army's Music Wing.
The band is one of two Royal Armoured Corps bands, which principally support the following regiments: The Queen's Royal Hussars, The King's Royal Hussars, The Light Dragoons, The 9th/12th Royal Lancers (Prince of Wales's) and the Queen's Royal Lancers. Originally, these regiments and their respective bands were mounted on horseback, a tradition which ceased during the 1930s upon mechanisation.
Since their formation the band has had a busy summer, performing for both military and public audiences.
Speaking of performing with other contingents, he also said: "We have done many shows like this. Some of the members are been posted in Germany and there are many international music show there."
The band will also be performing music originated from England, Scotland, Wales and Irish, he said.
He further added that the band is prepared for a great performances thanks to numerous rehearsals.
Captain Bruce Miller also conveys a birthday congratulatory message to His Majesty on his 60th birthday.
Meanwhile one of the band members, CPL Shakesphere commented that the BIT 2006 is a great opportunity to meet people from different cultures and is looking forward to perform in front of His Majesty.
She also added that they are fully prepared and it's the first time the band will perform in such a large event with others countries.
- Borneo Bulletin
(27th July 2006)
