From the exciting, rousing opening fanfare to the finale 'farewell', this was a concert not to be missed! The Usher Hall audience was most certainly entertained to a varied programme of music ranging from Schumann's Traumerei, played by Corporal Annabelinda Hardy RM; Gilbert and Sullivan choral classics, sung by the Edinburgh Gilbert and Sullivan Society, to a selection of well known and contemporary pieces played by the very talented men and women who make up The Band of Her Majesty's Royal Marines Scotland.
Approximating thirty-four in number, the band, directed by Captain Andrew Gregory RM, performed a programme of music with unquestionable musicality, professionalism and flair.
Captain Gregory was not the only director of music during the evening, there were in fact, for various reasons, a total of four conductors, including David Lyle who led the choir. Each musical director brought his own style of conducting to pieces performed – all, it should be noted, directed adept performances.
The finale formed a major part of the second half and commenced with Handel's Zadok The Priest, followed by the well known Evening Hymn (Dykes). Also included was Sunset (Green) and Britannic Salute featuring band arrangements of Rule Britannia (Arne) and Land of Hope and Glory (Elgar).
The evening concluded with a stirring performance of We're no Awa' tae Bide Awa'.
It was most heartening to see a near capacity audience (stalls and grand circle) in attendance.
All proceeds from the concert were going towards the work of Seafarers UK – a charitable organisation dedicated to the support of all sailors (and their dependants) in need from the Royal Navy (Royal Marines).
Event: Wednesday 21st November, 2012 at 7.30pm