A brief history
Formation of the Band
Various attempts were made over the past three or four decades to form a band made up of former Royal Marines musicians. Apart from the Royal Marines ‘All Stars’, which performs for one annual concert only, somewhat surprisingly nothing permanent emerged.
In May 2004 Major Paddy Dunn RM, then Chairman of the Royal Marines Association and son of one of the Royal Marines Band Service’s most famous Principal Directors of Music, Lt Col Sir F Vivian Dunn KCVO OBE FRSA RM, took the decisive step. Paddy telephoned the Royal Marines Association President, Brigadier Simon Hill, and announced, “We’re going to form a band!” Somewhat taken aback but catching Paddy’s enthusiasm, Brigadier Hill replied, “Fine, so let’s get on with it then!”
In May 2004 Major Paddy Dunn RM, then Chairman of the Royal Marines Association and son of one of the Royal Marines Band Service’s most famous Principal Directors of Music, Lt Col Sir F Vivian Dunn KCVO OBE FRSA RM, took the decisive step. Paddy telephoned the Royal Marines Association President, Brigadier Simon Hill, and announced, “We’re going to form a band!” Somewhat taken aback but catching Paddy’s enthusiasm, Brigadier Hill replied, “Fine, so let’s get on with it then!”
Early days
The Royal Marines Band Service has wowed global audiences for over a century with performances of the highest standard. Even after leaving the Service, many of these musicians go on to prominent musical careers, yet their bond with the Royal Marines remains unbreakable.
In June 2006 Captain Ted Whealing and a group of 35 musicians gathered at Whale Island, Portsmouth, forming the foundation of what would become a musical powerhouse.
In June 2006 Captain Ted Whealing and a group of 35 musicians gathered at Whale Island, Portsmouth, forming the foundation of what would become a musical powerhouse.
The Band today
Today the band numbers around 50 musicians and rehearses at HMS Collingwood, Fareham. Its members include former Royal Marines musicians as well as others from the wider Corps family, musicians from other Services and invited professional and experienced civilian players. Rehearsals take place every Thursday evening in purpose-built, fully equipped rehearsal rooms at HMS Collingwood.
Concerts, often held at renowned venues such as the Octagon Theatre, Yeovil and Assembly Hall, Worthing, regularly attract large audiences. A particular highlight was the 2016 collaboration with trumpet maestro James Morrison.
Concerts, often held at renowned venues such as the Octagon Theatre, Yeovil and Assembly Hall, Worthing, regularly attract large audiences. A particular highlight was the 2016 collaboration with trumpet maestro James Morrison.
More than music
Beyond the music, the band represents something more. Its members wear the Royal Marines Concert Band uniform with pride, reflecting a combined musical experience of more than 1,500 years. The Royal Marines Association Concert Band also raises funds and awareness for The Royal Marines Charity, demonstrating its continuing commitment to the Royal Marines Family.
Looking back
Although efforts to create a band of former Royal Marines musicians had been made for decades, it was Major Paddy Dunn RM’s determination in 2004 that proved decisive. With strong backing from influential supporters, the vision was set in motion.
For their initial support - then senior retired Principal Director of Music, Lt Col Paul Neville OBE MVO FRAM RM, the Principal Director of Music Royal Marines, Lt Col Chris Davis OBE BA(Hons) MMUS DMA LRAM RM, Brigadier Hill and Capt Ted Whealing MVO BA ARAM ARCM LTCL RM (who was appointed its first Director of Music), – we will always be grateful.
Through unwavering support, clear direction and boundless enthusiasm, the Royal Marines Association Concert Band rose to prominence and continues its musical journey with a legacy that remains unmistakably significant.
For their initial support - then senior retired Principal Director of Music, Lt Col Paul Neville OBE MVO FRAM RM, the Principal Director of Music Royal Marines, Lt Col Chris Davis OBE BA(Hons) MMUS DMA LRAM RM, Brigadier Hill and Capt Ted Whealing MVO BA ARAM ARCM LTCL RM (who was appointed its first Director of Music), – we will always be grateful.
Through unwavering support, clear direction and boundless enthusiasm, the Royal Marines Association Concert Band rose to prominence and continues its musical journey with a legacy that remains unmistakably significant.
