The Band of the Coldstream Guards proved a huge crowd pleaser while on tour in Japan – exporting the best of British pomp and ceremony to the Far East.
The talented Royal Corps of Army Music troops were a hit as they drew appreciative audiences while out in the streets and found themselves treated like celebrities.
They took part in joint sessions with Japanese musicians and struck a chord at set-piece concerts in a string of prestigious locations.
They also entertained at the British Embassy in the capital, supporting a reception for defence officials
Destinations on the packed tour at the end of last year included the Tokyo Opera City Concert Hall and Act City Hamamatsu venue.
The globe-trotting personnel also entertained at the British Embassy in the capital, supporting a reception for defence officials, and alongside students from Takushoku University Koryo High School’s brass band.
Notable performers included CSgt Rachel Smith – principal flautist – who took centre stage as a soloist, and euphonium guru LCpl Lucas Lockley, who is also a familiar face with the Household Division Orchestra.
Percussionist and Royal Northern College of Music graduate Musn Ashley Clegg was another to shine.
LSgt Nick Mott, who plays trumpet and is no stranger to performing in the Far East, said: “This is my fifth tour of Japan with the band and it is always an incredible opportunity to travel here with this iconic red machine.
“Being a soloist in the prestigious Opera City Hall was the experience of a lifetime.”
“Being a soloist in the prestigious Opera City Hall was the experience of a lifetime.”
