Page 35 - Cadet Review Spring 2020

BAND CHRISTMAS CAMP
2019 has been a busy, exciting year for Wing Music. From concerts, carols and high profile parades, to wind down an incredible year of performances, what better than a Christmas Music camp?
On Friday evening, cadets arrived at RAF Linton- on-Ouse's Ground School for an initial briefing
- some already festively dressed for the weekend ahead. Saturday morning held standard practice for musicians, bell-lyres and drummers alike, beginning to learn both classical and modern Christmas songs, in addition to some non Christmassy ones! After the day's long practice, both staff and cadets gathered for their secret Santa gifts and board games, exchanging gifts and laughs. (It's still a mystery
who bought the tin of mushy peas and the ambrosia custard, but it raised a few laughs!) Both pizza and fizzy drinks were provided, making for a fun, festive evening amongst friends.
On the second day, we were privileged to be joined by two members of the Band of Catterick Garrison, part of the Corps of Army Music. They brought some brilliant advice to our instrumentalists, leading some of our sectionals and rehearsals and demonstrat- ing their impressive skills in front of the band. We also played a special Christmas march, recorded a Facebook Livestream of our Christmas repertoire, and even had our piper performing some tunes
with the band, whilst being conducted by some of our senior cadets. No Christmas camp would be complete without a Christmas lunch in the mess, with crackers and some tasteful bad jokes, so naturally that had to be done too!
One cadet attending Wing Music for the first time was Cadet Charlotte Wilson, from 35 (Wetherby). After the camp she said: “The music camp was
both informational and fun. As a drummer we went through what we needed to get a bronze badge and also some Christmas songs to run alongside the musicians. It was wonderful to see all my friends (old and new) and begin to progress further.”
The day was incredibly exciting and thoroughly enjoyed by all but to add to the Christmas cheer Flight Sergeant Rosie Gregson from 252 (Bridlington) squadron was formally appointed the new Wing Drum Major. With her experience performing on a national stage along with many years with the Wing Band, Rosie's determination and hard work sees her take over from FS Qasim Hussain who has done a sterling job whilst in post.
Christmas Camp is always a highlight of the cadet calendar for me. It may not have the high profile parades or performances of some of our other activities, but it does bring everyone together
Speaking about the camp, the Wing Music Officer, Fg Off Adam Waudby said: “Christmas Camp is always a highlight of the cadet calendar for me. It may not have the high profile parades or perfor- mances of some of our other activities, but it does bring everyone together. Music really is about enjoyment, and enjoying it with others. Christmas Camp is an ideal time to focus on just this without the additional pressures - and to reward the cadets' hard work throughout the year with some fun, and some slightly suspect Poundland Secret Santa jokes. It was also a highlight to be able to appoint the new Wing Drum Major; recognising the significant effort and skill put in over a number of years which is always good to see. We look forward to seeing what 2020 brings, and watching the band grow bigger and better! No doubt it will be another busy year and we look forward to the challenge!”
CADET REVIEW SPRING 2020 35