The growing beneficial links between the three professional brass bands of the British Army and the civilian brass band movement was highlighted at the recent Scottish Open Championship on the weekend.

Best Instrumentalist

Sergeant Jon Hammond of the Band of The King’s Division, based at Weeton near Blackpool in Lancashire, claimed the 4BR ‘Best Instrumentalist’ award for his outstanding contribution on Andrew Duncan’s ‘Cantata’ to third placed Rothwell Temperance Band.

Although Jon has been associated with Rothwell on and off since 1999, his recent move to The Band of the King’s Division has allowed him to perform on a much more regular basis with the Yorkshire Band — and to enjoy the delights of the soprano cornet.

Balance

He told 4BR: “I’m very grateful for the support I get from my Director of Music, Captain Justin Matthews and the Corps of Army Music, which enables me to balance my professional musical career with high class brass band contesting.

Since my move to Weeton it has enabled me to play much more regularly with Rothwell — something I enjoy immensely.”

Huge benefit

He added: “Both bands are growing in strength and I’m sure the connection that is now being made between the Corps of Army Music and civilian brass bands is of huge benefit to everyone involved. It certainly keeps my lip in good shape!”

Wonderful

The Band of the King’s Division Director of Music, Captain Justin Matthews fully agreed with his talented Sergeant’s musical observations.

“It is wonderful to see Sergeant Hammond gaining recognition for his outstanding musicianship and we all congratulate him and Rothwell.

The connections that are now being made between both brass band genres are growing and we are delighted that it is already showing such great results.”

The connections that are now being made between both brass band genres are growing and we are delighted that it is already showing such great resultsThe Band of the King’s Division Director of Music, Captain Justin Matthews

Mutual benefit

He added: “As the Corps of Army Music brass bands do not compete in civilian competitions it gives the opportunity for the musicians to perform with bands in their spare time.

This mutual benefit has recently seen Army musicians perform with the likes of Leyland, Fodens, Grimethorpe, Desford and Fairey to name but a few.”

Passing out

Captain Matthews also informed 4BR that Musician Matthew Taylor, originally principal baritone at Fairey Band, has just completed his ‘Phase 1’ military training.

After a short break he will move to the Royal Military School of Music where he will complete ‘Phase 2’ (musical) training before joining the Corps of Army Music; The Band of The Royal Corps of Signals.