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army bands

Author: jenni
Date: 2009-03-15 21:38

Hi everyone! I've been reading the forums for a little while but finally got up the nerve to post!

I've just auditioned for one of the army bands in London, and have been accepted (yay!), but still need to do the fitness test (aargh!) and the tests to check that you aren't a complete imbecile. The next intake for basic training isn't till June, providing I pass the fitness, so what do people think are the main things to work on clarinet-wise until then? Also, anyone who is in an army/military band, do you have any advice for someone just starting out?

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Re: army bands

Author: JJAlbrecht
Date: 2009-03-16 00:27

"...and the tests to check that you aren't a complete imbecile...."

You didn't sign up for the trumpet or percussion line, did you??? [rotate]

Congratulations, in any case! [toast]

Good luck in your band carreer.

Jeff

“Everyone discovers their own way of destroying themselves, and some people choose the clarinet.” Kalman Opperman, 1919-2010

"A drummer is a musician's best friend."

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Re: army bands

Author: clarinetist04
Date: 2009-03-16 03:02

Maybe this is evident to others...

US or UK?

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Re: army bands

Author: Caroline Smale
Date: 2009-03-16 14:12

If you are going into the infantry try putting a lyre holder and wad of music on the end of your clarinet and marching along a pot-holed road or uneven grass field, you'll get to do a lot of this.
If on the other hand its the cavalry then try your local riding yard and see how you feel playing on horseback.
Tip 1. Don't ever point your bell anywhere near the horses head - that a fine way to get the sharp end of your mouthpiece protruding from the back of your neck.
Tip 2. In the event of an unplanned dismount! always make sure you leave the animal on the opposite side from your instrument. (I must admit that self preservation was always at the front of my mind during mounted sessions).
Note if its the cavalry don't plan on seeing your clarinet for at least 5 or 6 months after joining.

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Re: army bands

Author: jenni
Date: 2009-03-16 19:55

It's in the UK! There's no way I'd even consider joining the cavalry bands, horses and me don't mix well at all! I'm joining one of the state bands that do all the changing of the guard at Buckingham palace, and all the ceremonial stuff - but on foot! Thanks for the replies, made me laugh lots! :-)

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