The Blue and the Gold - Royal Air Force Music Services Association | For Royal …€¦ · · 2013-02-20Judging by your kind remarks and comments, ... "The Blue and the Gold," as

The Blue and the Gold


The Journal of the Royal Air Force Music Services Association

Winter 2013

The Royal Air Force Music Services AssociationThe Royal Air Force Music Services Association

President: Wing Commander H B Hingley OBE Vice President: Robin Shillitto

Chairman: Ben TierneyVice Chairman: Frederick James

Secretary: Treasurer and

Membership Secretary: John DablinWelfare Secretary: Unity Slade

Editor: Norman BlowPublicity: Bob Wray

A last look . . . . . . . . .

The end of an era. Front Page Picture is of the demolition squad setting to work on the Music Headquarters at RAF Uxbridge. By the time you read this, it will be no more. With it go all our memories, good or bad of the times served there. Photo by courtesy of Tony Shuttleworth

The Blue and the Gold 1

From the Editor . . . . A happy New Year to you all, tinged with more than a little sadness - see the cover on the front page! Time marches on and the move to RAF Northolt is already fading into history. This year's reunion is scheduled to take place there on 6th/7th July and we hope for a good turn-out. The Saturday dinner will be at the Barn Hotel in Ruislip. as in 2011. Letters and application forms will be sent out in March.June 2013 also sees the 60th Anniversary of the Coronation and we hope there will be some stories of that momentous dayin the next issue, so please send them in.You will, I hope, have noticed that this edition of 'The Blue and the Gold' is out later than usual, but after discussion it was agreed that the two editions be published in March and September. The date of the reunion cannot be confirmed until some time in January and it would be more advantageous to include details and a booking form with that issue; this would avoid the additional cost of sending out separate notices only a month or so later. The September edition would be produced sooner in time after the Annual reunion and be more relevant. We still welcome contributions from members; indeed we rely on them. I am deeply indebted to Bob Wray for all the research he is doing and for all the material he produces for the journal. We have included a report about a CD recording produced by RAF Wyton Voluntary Band and look forward to more news of these bands. Last year's reunion was a great success and I am indebted to Unity Slade for the photographs published in this edition.

Norman Blow

Your Chairman writes . . . .Judging by your kind remarks and comments, I think I can safely say that this year's Reunion weekend held at Cranwell was a resounding success. The Regiment Band hosted us proudly in all departments with fabulous assistance from Tony Crossman. Our dinner held in the Masonic Rooms was again a delight with well-served food and a well-tended bar. If any members had reservations then please let me put them to rest; all of it worked, and was good and memorable.We are pleased to welcome John Snelling as our Eastern Area Representative who tells me he has attempted to make contact with the whole list of members in his area with some exceptions but will keep on trying. I was pleased to see him at our latest committee meeting.My ear has been pounded a little recently about how crowded it was at Northolt in 2011. I can tell you we are on the case to make sure that it will not ever happen again. Rob Jordan, our liaison man between Headquarters and our association, has several options up his sleeve should the sort of numbers we witnessed arrive in 2013. Please don't be put off attending. With growing numbers, every week almost, we have to respect and accommodate you, our members, who wish to make the journey to our annual gathering.May I, on your behalf, thank the committee and H.Q.M.S. for all their efforts, support and help they continue to give me.

Ben Tierney

RAFMuSA Reunion and Annual General Meeting

Saturday 6th and Sunday 7th July 2013

RAF NortholtSunday 7 JulySaturday 6 July

Dinner at The Barn Hotel, Ruislip 10am Reception in Music Services Headquarters11 am AGM1 pm Lunch2 pm Concert by RAF Central Band followed by the VetsBlow

7 for 8 pm

The Blue and the Gold2

Rowland Shaw - Composer and arrangerRowland Shaw who died on 11 May, 2012, aged 91, was one of Britain's most popular and successful arrangers of popular music, working with artists such as Vera Lynn and Mantovani. He also recorded cover versions of music from the James Bond films in the 1960s when Bond mania was at its height.Shaw and his orchestra released several Bond albums on Decca between 1966 and 1971, not only versions of John Barry's themes but also his own interpretations of other tracks from the films. His talent as an arranger was as prodigious as his output. Musicians admired his glorious string writing, his beautiful woodwind and horn lines as well as the quality, artistry and professionalism of his scores.

He was born Roland Edgar Shaw Tomkins in Leicester on May 26 1920, the only child of a foreman in a Kettering boot factory. An early hankering to plays drums was thwarted by a lack of funds to purchase a full drum kit. Instead he bought a set of drumsticks which, he recalled, "probably did great damage to the windowsills." He eventually taught himself to play the piano.

After Kettering Grammar School and Wellingborough School, he studied at Trinity College of Music. His first job was with a band called The 'Royal Kiltie Juniors,' where he met Reg Owen, later to be a fellow arranger for the Ted Heath Orchestra.

On the outbreak of the Second World War Shaw volunteered for the RAF, although he was under age. He served for six-and- a-half years with the RAF Central Band and as Leader of the RAF No I Band of the MEAF, seeing service in the Western Desert Cyprus and Palestine. In the RAF he was known as Sergeant Tomkins, but on his return to Civvy Street he changed his name to Roland Shaw.

After demob he played gigs as a pianist, working with the orchestras of Teddy Foster and Nat Temple, amongst others. His first commercial attempt at arranging was a score of I Got Rhythm, which he sent to Ted Heath and Geraldo. Although Heath never tried the arrangement, Geraldo not only bought it but also hired Shaw as one of his house arrangers, alongside Wally Stott and Robert Farnon. Shaw also took a job as pianist with the Sidney Lipton Orchestra at the fashionable Grosvenor House but resigned on his first night as he disliked the music.Tutti Camerata asked Shaw to compose a suite for woodwinds and the resultant royalty cheque, the largest Shaw had ever received, bought him a vintage Rolls-Royce. While parking the vehicle near his home in Barnes, South-West London, he was approached by a man who showed an interest in it. It transpired that he was Frank Lee, head of A&R at Decca Records. Through this chance meeting, in 1952, Shaw became musical director of Decca Records.His first job was to record Auf Wiederseh'n Sweetheart with Vera Lynn, which became the first single by a British artist to top the US charts, where it remained for nine weeks.

Shaw went on to write and conduct scores for stars including Tommy Steele, Max Bygraves, The Beverley Sisters, Dickie Valentine, Gracie Fields, Roger Whittaker, the operatic bass Cesare Siepi and many more. He also wrote and conducted successful albums under his own name as The Roland Shaw Orchestra, occasionally with singers added. Time-Life and Readers Digest employed him to score big orchestral albums of popular music for them, with similar success.In addition to this he was hailed as one of Britain's finest big band arrangers, working closely with Ted Heath (whose orchestra he conducted for recordings when Heath became too ill), and also with Syd Lawrence, whom he had met as a trumpeter in the RAF. He claimed to have taught Lawrence how to write his first score, adding that "it was a bit of a stinker, but he improved rapidly."

Other band and orchestral leaders were keen to utilise Shaw's talents and he wrote numerous scores for Edmundo Ross, Frank Chacksfield, the BBC Radio Orchestra, and more than 150 for the Mantovani Orchestra including arrangements of Three Coins in the Fountain, and Quando, Quando, Quando.Shaw worked on several films including The Great Waltz, Summer Holiday and Song of Norway, and his cover versions of James Bond tracks remained for 30 weeks in the top albums on Billboard USA. He worked on advertising jingles for Rothmans and Fairy Liquid and uncredited on many scores for television shows.Away from music, his passion was for motor cars, of which he owned several exotic examples over the years. These ranged from a Rolls-Royce to a Mini-Cooper, a Bentley and a beautiful classic red Ferrari. He competed in club meetings at Silverstone, Goodwood and Brands Hatch, where he often acted as a race marshal.

There is no mention of what instrument he played in the RAF Bands. Percussion?Can anyone throw some light on this? Ed.

3The Blue and the Gold

BLUE & GOLD plus KHAKIReading the magazine, "The Blue and the Gold," as an outsider I am surprised that there is very rarely any mention of The Central Band of The Women's Royal Air Force - though I did notice that two ex-members of The WRAF Band are listed among the new members. Anyway, I thought that I would supply the vacancy in this section.

It was in 1959 that the Central Band of the WRAF, together with other RAF Bands joined together in The Royal Tournament at Earls Court - it was the RAF's year. Various parts of the Tournament were, obviously, focused on the RAF. Most were supported by music from the RAF bands. However, items by the Army, the Navy etc. were supplied with music by what was known as "The Duty Band" on the bandstand. In that year it was the turn of The Band of The Corps of Royal Engineers, Chatham, the senior band of the REs.In between performances SASRA (Soldiers' and Airmen's Scripture Readers Association) had a rest room on the top floor where tea, coffee, cakes etc. could be obtained, and easy chairs in which to relax. Bible study and prayer sessions were also held from time to time.After one such meeting, various "boys and girls" from various units paired off and went out for a meal. A certain member of the WRAF turned to a member of The Royal Engineers' Band sitting next to her, and said, "Well, aren't you going to take me out then!" Feeling sorry for her, out they went together.During the following day's performance, when members of the WRAF were twirling Indian clubs around, the lights went out - they were supposed to do so - and the clubs had light bulbs in each end. The constant swirl of the lights caused the said member of the WRAF Band to pass out with a great "clang." She was playing the cymbals! She was carted off on a stretcher with the cymbals balanced on her chest.She came round fairly quickly and returned to Uxbridge with the rest of the band, being told to close her eyes when that part of the show was on again.How do I know this? I was that member of The Royal Engineers' Band; the WRAF cymbal player was Bandswoman Suzette Hammond, and we married three years later, and have just celebrated our Golden Wedding.

Suzette Hammond

Eric Littler (Revd)

Eric and Suzette today Eric Littler in RE Band ceremonials

4 The Blue and the Gold

As intimated by Alan France, he felt that he was 'merely' a member of a voluntary band and not qualified to become a member of the Association. As we all know, voluntary bands have always been a vital and integral part of the musical life of the RAF and continue to be so today. Stories and photograph for publication are always welcome

Voluntary BandsTo the EditorDear SirI was interested to read Bob Wray's comments in the "British Bandsman" magazine and was tempted to write then. Let me say I do not feel my experiences in the RAF qualify me for membership of the RAF Mus Association; but here is my story.I grew up in a Salvation Army family and my father and two brothers all played brass instruments. In 1948 I was called up for National Service and in May travelled to West Kirby to begin my square bashing. I had soon made contact with the station band there, spending my evenings in the band room.I was asking for air traffic control postings and after basic training was sent to RAF Ternhill, Flying Training Squadron in Shropshire.I met up with another brass player quite early and we spent the evenings practising in the 'Happy Valley' type nissen hut. The word spread and after a month there were six of us. One of my officers in ATC suggested he would take me to see the station adjutant to find us somewhere to rehearse. Grasping the opportunity I asked the adjutant if we could have our own hut. I was surprised when he said, 'Come with me!'We went to the Station Gymnasium, down some stairs and there was a band room, spare instruments and more importantly, a stocked library of band music. The adjutant said that we could have the room on condition that we played once a month for the officers' dining-in nights and aim towards forming a station band to play marches at the cadets' passing-out parades (one every three months). Previously bands had been flown in. I asked him in return to contact Padgate and West Kirby to send any budding musicians on to Ternhill.I am pleased to say that great progress was made. We were allocated a Flying Officer Harrison as Band Officer and although I was only an AC2, was appointed Band Leader. The highest number of players we had was 29 but the turn-over was a bit of a problem. I was posted elsewhere but each time the station adjutant had the orders rescinded.I still keep in touch with one of the players and we share our memories.As I said earlier I don't think my experience in the RAF qualifies me for what you are looking for. but we were merely "a station voluntary band!"Incidentally, my son is a musical director of a brass band and I am still allowed to play!! I was one of many who, having served my 18 months, had my service extended to 2 years, thus having more time with the band.

Geoff Westlake

Following the letter by Geoff Westlake published in the last edition of 'The Blue and the Gold we include an advertisement for Carlton drums on which he appeared.Also, on the opposite page - photographs of No 4 Regional Band of which he was a member.

Alan France

Ed: I am pleased to say that Alan has since joined the Association as an Associate member. Welcome, Alan.

Have any of our members any memories of RAF Ternhill?

Geoff ..'This was me in 1957. When my drums were stolen, I was provided with free drums on condition that I would advertise them.'


Leonard VidlerLeonard Vidler's daughter Joyce, writes;

It has been hard for me to try and track down the events of my father's life as I was only 14 when he died whilst playing in a dance band in Bristol on March 20th 1948.He was a brilliant musician, playing sax. clarinet, piano and organ; he was also a chorister in Bristol Cathedral. Unfortunately, I have not inherited his musical ability but I do try. He was presented to Queen Mary at RAF Abingdon on one occasion when he was conducting an RAF orchestra. He had an accident in a Hampden bomber on a trial flight. He badly injured his knee and was grounded from flying. He then became involved with the orchestra. Unfortunately, a clot of blood lodged near his heart after his operation and he suffered a heart attack and was medically discharged from the RAF. He continued with his music as a teacher and playing in dance bands, but sadly, he had a massive heart attack after playing a piano solo. My mother was unable to cope and decided to emigrate to Australia where her mother had resided for many, many years. So we sailed on MV Georgic on December 8th 1950. Sadly, it was a mistake, as we found out on the wharf at Sydney that we were not wanted by the rest of the family.I would be thrilled to hear from anyone who can recall Leonard George Vidler.There is a plaque in the choir stalls in Bristol Cathedral in his memory.Thank you

Can anybody help with information regarding the above? Please contact the editor or email Joyce on [email protected]

Joyce Law

On Sunday 8 August 1943. Leonard Vidler was conducting the RAF Station Orchestra at this special service.

No 4 Regional Band, Henlow 1951

Geoff Westlake-drums Fred Campey-bass Geoff Westlake is on the extreme right of the pictureHarry Rushbridge-tenor Fred Jameson -trumpet Front, centre, is Flt Sgt Harry Rushbridge who tried to

instil some sort of disciplineFrank Gillespie-alto


More memories of the WW2 RAF Bomber Command Band

By Robert F Wray. It is recorded that several members of the band represented the station in various sporting activities such as football, rugby, cricket and tennis and even snooker. It was indeed a much-admired ambassador for the RAF and its place in RAF Music Services history is secure.Numerous band members were eminently successful in post-war musical careers and otherwise, and such achievement was in no small measure due to the standard of excellence it attained as a musical ensemble and the attendant 'espris de corps' it exhibited.I am indebted to Eric Entwistle and Ronald Morton for assistance in compiling the following list of players and their subsequent careers.

Conductor GEORGE MALCOLM became the choir master at Westminster Cathedral, and world famous as a harpsichordist, a musician of outstanding stature.Flute RONALD MORTON worked for the Music Department at Oxford University Press, then became a county peripatetic teacher and taught thereafter at Wantage St. Mary' s School.Eb Clarinet and Band Sergeant CHARLES BACON was originally from the Band of the Scots Guards and post-war became a commissionaire at Shell House, London. Oboe JOHN WOLFE, became principal oboe with the BBC Symphony Orchestra. Principal Clarinet TED STAVERT had his own orchestra in a Scottish hotel; he had a relation in the Central Band some dozen years ago, name not known. Amongst the clarinet section was TED HEWITT who became a policeman after freelancing for a short spell. ERIC ENTWISTLE who later toured with Leslie Douglas and Teddy Foster in big bands, then free lance orchestral broadcasting in the Midlands and following 1984 retirement as the general manager of Birmingham Airport taught music until he was 75, He has completed more than 50 years as conductor of the Birmingham Concert Band. TOBY BARRETT became a bus conductor in Birmingham. PETER FETTES became a BBC announcer. KEN TREACHER, no information.JACK HOWARTH, Alto Saxophone, became a member of a theatre orchestra in Rawtenstall and thereafter a shopkeeper.Tenor Saxophone, DOUGIE ---, formerly of the Royal Marines band service, no later information.Bassoon. NOBBY CLARKE, was formerly of the Band of the Oxford and Bucks Light Infantry, no later information.First Horn, ROGER RUTCLIFFE, became a member of the Covent Garden Orchestra.Second Horn, MARK FOSTER, became a teacher at Cheltenham Ladies College and conductor of the Cheltenham Symphony Orchestra.Principal Cornet, NORMAN LAMBDEN became the manager of a music shop in Reading.Others were RONNIE ATKINSON, who became a window dresser in Bradford, formerly of the famous Black Dyke Mills Band.

I am very much obliged to our RAFMuSA colleague and former band member and good friend Eric Entwistle for kindly supplying information from which this short article was compiled. The band-room was located at Bomber Command Headquarters, which was at Naphill, three miles distant from High Wycombe, and was a completely isolated building in surrounding woodland and camouflaged as the station itself. By way of interest, RAF High Wycombe was the HQ of the RAF's largest command representing over 600 operational bomber and training squadrons, had a staff that included 14 Group Captains, and Air Chief Marshall, Commander-in-Chief 'Bomber' Harris' command personnel, as told to me by the late Leslie Douglas of WW2 RAF dance band renown.

For heating, two stoves were prepared every winter's evening on a roster basis, which enabled the one person sleeping alone in the building to ignite it as he went to breakfast. This ensured that the band-room was reasonably warm in time for the morning rehearsal.Bandmaster George Malcolm looked after the welfare of the band members to the best of his powers as a Warrant Officer. Rehearsals for the embryonic band were intensive in his efforts to bring his charges up to the standard required, and several changes in personnel were effected until he was eventually completely satisfied and the band was then declared operational for engagements.

The concert programmes performed and presented by the band were extensive and comprehensive in nature and covered a wide spectrum of band music, and invariably ranged from selections of classical pieces to popular items of the day and community sing-a-long numbers. The instrumental ability of the band was of a high standard, as befitting the musical background of the conductor, and the Bomber Command Band, it was said, was considered the most proficient and skilful of the seven command bands of the war-time period. Orchestral overtures such as Oberon, Fingals Cave etc were regularly featured, as were Franz von Suppe's gems, Light Cavalry etc. A concert finale highlight frequently consisted of the Galop from the William Tell Overture, played at breakneck orchestral tempo, and similarly Flight of the Bumble Bee, both being broadcast on numerous occasions. Due to the close proximity of the band to London, it enjoyed most frequent broadcasting engagements, and its actual broadcasting record during its short and eventful career is amongst the most regular of all service bands for the period. Such broadcasts were made from Maida Vale or Broadcasting House for UK transmission and also studios like the Paris Cinema near Piccadilly Circus for overseas listeners. The band travelled extensively throughout the huge network of Bomber Command stations and also fulfilled many civilian and public engagements, to entertain RAF personnel and also importantly help to maintain morale for the populace at large.


Royal Air Force Musicians Hit the Right NoteThe 170 Musicians of Royal Air Force Music Services (RAFMS) are used to being in the spotlight but 2012 has been a bumper year for this small but perfectly-formed military music organisation. The three bands that make up RAFMS, the bands of the RAF College and RAF Regiment and the Central Band of the RAF performed with great aplomb at the Queen's Diamond Jubilee celebrations and the London 2012 Olympic Games.The Military Muster in Windsor saw Central and College Bands get the biggest cheer of the day as they entered the parade ground at the foot of Windsor Castle. The Royal Navy and Army contingents had to witness the spectacle of the Royal Air Force trooping into the arena to the strains of 'Those Magnificent Men in their Flying Machines.' Her Majesty was of course the focal point for the day but the many thousands of Service personnel and their families that attended enjoyed what was a real celebration of our Armed Forces.In 2011 the Fanfare Trumpeters of the Central Band performed at the wedding of the Duke and Duchess of Cornwall viewed by a worldwide TV audience of nearly 2 billion; this unique musical ensemble rose to the challenge.

Spurred on by this event the fanfare team was invited to perform at the Queen's Diamond Jubilee Service of Thanksgiving at St Paul's Cathedral. Under the baton of Music Services Principal Director of Music, Wing Commander Duncan Stubbs, the seven trumpeters added a touch of pomp and ceremony to the regal service.

The bands of the RAF were in demand at the London Olympics. RAF Musicians entertained thousands of spectators at the tennis, beach volleyball, archery, rowing and road cycling events. In October, the three bands took to the road as part of the 'RAF in Concert' series. The tour was a great success, with ticket sales increasing by 10%. Two new venues were added to this year's tour, the Central Band returned to Cadogan Hall in London's Sloane Square. The concert was attended by the Air Force Board and representatives of this year's sponsors, BAE Systems. Members of the Regiment and College Bands appeared for the first time at The Royal Hall in Harrogate; this newly-renovated Victorian theatre proved to be an ideal location for audience and bands alike.

Chief Technician Rob Jordan

HAROLD SPURGEON, worked as a printer in Uxbridge. BERNARD CRESSWELL was in upper management on the railways. Ist Trombone. GEORGE BRADSHAW, became a freelance player and later Head of Brass in West Yorkshire,

Bomber Command Band (cont)

2nd trombone LAURIE MALLION, lived in Norwich where he played in the Salvation Army Band.Euphonium, ARTHUR ATKINSON, brother of Ron, was formerly a member of the famous Black Dyke Mills Band in Bradford and he rejoined the band.Eb Bass, ALAN TOLLEY, became a bus driver in Bradford. BBb Bass, ARTHUR PRIOR, became a bus conductor in Brighton. Percussion, GEORGE ASPINALL, returned to theatre work in London, Percussion BILLY MAIN returned to hotel management on the south coast and was most successful.


Music at Wyton

We commenced recording on Friday 2 November and Barrie Hingley arrived on Saturday 3 November to conduct and record 'Elegy.' By Saturday evening the recording was completed and so the Sunday was now redundant. The recording session was altogether an experience and thoroughly enjoyed by all. The CD is to be entitled 'Broadway and Film' and all that remains now is the editing of the recording. By the time you read this article the CD should have been issued and interested readers can obtain a copy from Graham Sheldon on 01480 432011 Ex 7525.

I think it is fair to say that the standard of RAF Voluntary Bands has vastly increased since the days when I served in RAF Music Services (but I would say that wouldn't I, as I am a member of a Voluntary Band?). They were then mostly brass bands, but today they are mostly wind bands. I feel sure that when Barrie Hingley recently conducted and rehearsed Wyton Band he was quite surprised at the standard, and it was also good to form a link between Voluntary Bands and the RAF Music Services Association..

There are today eight RAF Voluntary Bands including one in Cyprus. Since the shrinking of RAF Music Services to three established bands, the role of Voluntary Bands has become increasingly more demanding and RAF Wyton Band carries out approximately fifty engagements a year, which is not bad for a band that only rehearses one night per week.

To my knowledge there are only three ex-Music Services personnel playing in Voluntary Bands, but I would fully recommend membership to ex-Music Services personnel to keep up old ties with RAF Music and the RAF in general.

RAF Wyton Area Voluntary Band is a 40-plus piece Wind Band (unlike the old Brass Bands) based, as its name implies, at RAF Wyton. The band is led by its Bandmaster, Voluntary Band Instructor Graham Sheldon, who is an ex BSM of The Band of The Irish Guards

The Band has made three previous CD's, the third and last occasion being two years ago. It was decided by Graham that it was time for a fourth CD in 2012, and so preparations, programme content and rehearsals began in earnest in September 2012.

In August 2012 the Band carried out an engagement at RAF Wyton, the Pathfinder Force annual church service, where a solemn RAF-related piece of music was required and Band member Sqn Ldr. Ted Sellers (ex Central Band flute player) introduced Graham to a piece called 'Elegy' by Wing Commander Barric Hingley. The piece is based on the RAF March Trio and was written by Barrie when he was DOM of RAF Germany Band in the 1970s. It was popular with the Band and so Graham decided that 'Elegy' was to be included on the CD. Graham contacted Barrie Hingley to ask him if he would conduct his piece on the CD, which he readily agreed to do.

The final rehearsal but one, occurred on 28th October and Barrie attended to rehearse his music. It is true to say that the band was lifted to a new level by Barrie and the band members were inspired by his musicianship.

And so it was that the recording date was upon us. The weekend of 2nd, 3rd and 4th November was set aside for the recording and the location was chosen as the Bandroom of the Army Minden Band at Basingbourne Barracks, a short drive from RAF Wyton. (Readers may recall this to be an ex-RAF Camp). The recording engineer/producer was Major John Perkins (Rtd.), late DOM of the Royal Marines, so we had an RAF Band recording in an Army Bandroom with an ex-Royal Marine as Producer/Engineer!

David TwitchingsDeputy Bandmaster

RAF Wyton Area Voluntary Band


The Regiment Band at RAF Catterick in October 1961 (Cassel Cup Marching display)

DOM Jack Cash, Drum Major Barrie Hingley.Front rank L to R :Harry 'Cisco' Hutchinson, Andy Johnson, Bill Howard, Roy Ellison and Dave Snelling.Second Rank: Tony Bath, Ralph Hebditch, Dave Patterson, Barry Clifton, Ron Park

Others include Dave Watson, John Hewitt, Ken Fitzgerald, George Kilner, Lian Gaffney, Clive Parsons, Harry Appleton, Ray Hardcastle, Terry Lowe, Roy Green, Roy Saville,John Baldwin, Ray Brookes, Bob Wray, Dan Weston, and Dave Brownbridge

Photo: Dan Weston

RAF Regiment Band 70th Birthday Bash

The afternoon of Saturday 7th July 2011 saw an assembly of ex-Regiment Band members and their families in the Regiment Bandroom at RAF Cranwell to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the formation of the RAF Regiment Band. As a Regiment Band member for nine months in 1957, I attended, along with Fred Jameson, who was there ten years before me! It was very enjoyable event in which many ex-Regiment musicians were able to meet up with old colleagues. Norman Blow

Ken Nelson and Fred Jameson - together again after 65 years.

Barrie Hingley putting theWyton Voluntary Bandthrough their paces.


Throughout the 1930s he would have been very much involved in all band engagements and activities that lead up to the advent of war; unfortunately the information to hand does not include any details of these years of service. He was in France in command of a detachment of the band from November 1939 until March 1940 and presumably based at Arras ( as the second later detachment ) with the RAF component of the Allied Air Striking Force. This most interestingly was followed by a second detachment lead by his colleague Warrant Officer Beechfield Carver. This part of the band, it is recorded, narrowly escaped capture by the Germans. Among its ranks was clarinettist Bob Ponsford, now in his nineties, who later was to achieve the rank of Squadron Leader and to be appointed Director of Music of the Central Band, prior to his late 1970s retirement.In 1941 he was commissioned as a Flying Officer, and thereafter promoted to the rank of Squadron Leader in late 1946. He eventually retired from the service in 1957, (I presume that his services were retained beyond normal retirement age in a civilian capacity at HQMS ? ) and died two years later aged 66. It is hoped that readers with further information and no doubt with personal knowledge of 'Fanny' Ward, as he was known, will please add their own memories and comments to this brief feature; such would be much appreciated. I am very much obliged to his family for their kind assistance with the a-foregoing information, and for my part am pleased to help keep this incomplete memory of him from fading from our view and for it to be available for the interest and information of our members, his memory fully deserves nothing less... .. ..

An outline of the life and career ofSqn Ldr Charles Lewes Patrick Ward,Director of Music, Royal Air Force Central Band.

Charles Ward is a name that will be well-remembered by elder members of the RAF Music Services Association who served in the Central Band in the years during and following WW 2. He was a member of a third generation military family, and was born in Rawalpindi on the north-west frontier of India, now Pakistan, on March 17 1892.Following various postings at home and abroad with his parents, he enlisted as a band-boy soldier in 1907, one month prior to his 15th birthday in the 2nd Battalion of the South Lancashire Regiment. He entered man service in the regiment as a private soldier three years later and became a bandsman in 1912.War service followed in 1914 with the British Expeditionary Force in France, where he served out the war with the regiment; on his return to England in 1919 became a student bandmaster at the Royal Military School of Music, Kneller Hall. On the successful completion of his studies he was promoted to Warrant Officer and appointed bandmaster of his former regiment in 1920, and later that year he was posted to the band of the 2nd Battalion of the Welsh Regiment. He subsequently served at Pembroke Dock, China, Singapore and finally in India. In 1933 he transferred to the RAF, and retained his rank of Warrant Officer to become Bandmaster of the Central Band. Robert F Wray.

Gracie Fields entertaining RAF personnel 'somewhere in France' early in 1940. Bandmaster W O Ward is seated front centre. Can anybody identify any of the other members other than dear old Flt Sgt Fitzhenry seen next to Gracie's raised left hand! Gracie was a real celebrity and much-loved singer and 'over there' entertaining our boys in the front line.


No 3 Regional Band

No 3 regional Band at RAF Locking 1949 AOC Parade. It was soon afterwards posted to Germany as the RAFG Band.The euphonium player left file second rank is Tom Atkinson featured during his National Service, in his career thereafter he was a member of the BBC Philharmonic Orchestra for 40 years as principal tuba. He was a member of the very well-known and noted Atkinson family of Bradford and his relatives,

Arthur and Ronnis Atkinson both served in the WWII Bomber Command Band.They were also members, like himself of the world-famous Black Dyke Mills Band. RAFMuSA member Eric Entwistle was a colleague member of theirs with the RAF Bomber Command Band. Photograph and information from Tom's widow Kathleen and also Bob Wray

Diamond Jubilee

1953 - 2013

The 2nd June this year sees the 60th Anniversary of the Coronation of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. Some of our members will remember it well and were possibly involved in the celebrations. I was in the School of Music all that year and was drafted, along with most of the others into one of the bands participating. I was allocated to No 2 Processional Band which was an amalgamation of the RAF Regiment and College Bands. No 1 Processional Band was composed of Nos 1 and 2 Regional Bands. I am not sure where and how the Central Band and the WRAF Band were employed. I am certain that someone out there will be able to supply this information.

It was a truly memorable occasion - my Coronation medal still has pride of place on display in my study and simply glancing at it brings back memories of that day. Although it was wet, it didn't rain all day.If you were involved in participating and have any recollections, stories and, more important, photographs of that day I would be delighted to publish them. I have the oft-printed photo of No 2 Processional Band already in my possession.

I remember that there were several 'static' bands who played to the crowd during the times when the procession wasn't passing that particular point on the route - Piccadilly Circus was one and I think No 5 Regional Band were involved in this activity. No 4 Regional Band were, I believe, also a static band. Further information would be welcome.


A Tribute to Flight Sergeant Tony Crosse. 1931-2012by Adrian Wansborough

Tony came from a musical family. His grandfather was a clarinettist and composer in the Kaiser's band in Germany, prior to the first world war.Among his compositions are the marches, 'Under den Linden' and the 'Northumberland Hussars,' together with a quartet. These pieces still exist in the Boosey & Hawkes on-linecatalogue.His father was a freelance musician in the North of England, playing with the Liverpool Philharmonic, BBC and other orchestras.I first knew Tony after we had travelled from RAF Cosford with the newly-formed No 6 Regional band which was about to embark on a 2.5 year tour of the Middle East and Africa under the baton of Flt Lt H.J.Cash, our DOM. Our base camp was RAF Elhamra, MEAF 15F Suez Canal zone from where we undertook three long tours. A fourth world place having the Suez Canal on one side and the Sinai desert on the other. To our horror, we found that we were to be billeted in tents so Tony took it upon himself to help us install them, which was a good thing because nobody had any idea how to go about it. The annoying thing was that they were all dismantled within a week because we were sent to Nairobi on the start of our first tour, to be part of the guard of honour for HRH Princess Elizabeth and HRH Prince Philip.On this and on many other occasions was Tony's humour and general helpfulness displayed. I have personal experience of his looking after us when while we were on leave in camp and sitting around chatting.

One afternoon, a rather arrogant sergeant from another discipline told us to start sweeping out the unused brick tent wells, Tony who also stayed on camp, heard what was going on and soon sent him on his way.

Whilst still in Egypt, Tony received news by letter that his family were emigrating to Australia in January 1955 which was a shock. So, having no other family at that time, he requested permission to remain in Elhamra when our 2.5 years posting had expired. However, this was refused by Wg Cdr Sims.On returning from Egypt he was posted to Catterick. He met his future wife Pat in Uxbridge and they were married in 1955. From Catterick he was eventually posted to RAF Changi, Singapore, the first of two postings to that station. The first tour being completed, he was promoted to Flight sergeant and promptly posted back to Changi.When his second tour of Changi expired, he had about two years of his service left, and he was then made a voluntary band instructor at RAF Henlow, a posting he enjoyed because the C.O. was a great fan of the band.In 1971 Tony left the RAF and took his family to South Australia where he began a new career as a music teacher in a local school. He also started an instrument repair workshop at his home, which, since he was the only one around for a good few miles, did very well. They bought a house in Gawler, a few miles from Adelaide.During this period he took over conducting the local brass band and also found a small orchestra in which to play and subsequently played in several bands/orchestras over the years.He and Pat eventually had five children, including twins, one of whom died in l993. They now have eight grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.Pat had acquired a small female puppy and together with a dog from Germany called a "Spitz Mittel," they started breeding and were soon winning competitions. Their kennel prefix was, of course "Elhamra," and people used to phone them asking for Mr Crosse of Elhamra kennels. He was elected President of the "All Breeds Club," a post he held for several years.Latterly he joined the staff of the local maritime museum and helped crew an old converted tugboat/police launch which took school parties on trips on the Murray River.During spare moments, he built models such as HMS Bounty; the Titanic and a three-foot wing-span Fokker triplane. He sent me a photo of this aircraft and it seems huge. His valedictory Email to me arrived just after he had been to see the doctor and was given the news. His comment was,"I expected it." Most of the foregoing information was given to me by Tony several years ago.He is sadly missed by those of his friends in No 6 Regional Band MEAF 15; January 1952 - July1954.Tony at a recent wedding


Ivor Dolbear - Euphonium and Trombone

Ivor Dolbear leading the Western Band, early 70's. Does anyone recognise the location?

Ivor was a very fine instrumentalist indeed, a skilled euphonium player in the military band and an absolute 'knockout ' on trombone with the 'Dixielanders' - so very well remembered.Ivor deserves to be remembered in print, so readers, please drop a line to me with your memories and photos etc of a guy whose prowess on brass was quite exceptional, was a source of great pleasure and who died far too young.

Further to the article on 'Big Mac' on page 1 of the last issue, it may not have been known that his Christian name was Cornelius, but he did not wish it to be known. We omitted to offer our thanks to Paul McCarthy and members of the RAFMuSA with photos, information and textual memorabilia in preparing this profile.

Robert Wray

Left:Ivor Dolbear, Flt Sgt Tommy Jones (anyone know how tocontact him?) and Jeff Wright. A photo taken in Germany in the late 50's, Could be Butzweilerhof. (Has anybody any ideas?)


RAF MUSIC SERVICES ASSOCIATION CONCERT BAND

A few months ago I met with Barrie Hingley for lunch and we spent a pleasant couple of hours talking about times gone by, old friends and life after the RAF. Unexpectedly, Barrie asked what my views were on possibly forming and RAFMuSA Concert Band, and if I would be willing to be part of such a project. I did not have to think for long to realise that it was an excellent idea and something that it would be both a pleasure and a privilege to be involved in. Subsequently, Ben Tierneycontacted me and I went along to the first committee meeting of 2013 to give a presentation on the project. The committee's response was (in Ben's words) "We all felt a great feeling of excitement about the possibility of having our own ensemble in the future".

There are many ex-RAF Musicians of a high standard (both current members of RAFMuSA and potential new members) who would be interested in playing in a concert band which maintained the standards and traditions of established RAF Bands. Such a band would raise the profile of the RAFMuSA and raise money for the Association and other Service-related charities, in addition to providing the pleasure of playing alongside former colleagues. Recent discussions with the PDM(RAF), Wing Commander Duncan Stubbs, have confirmed that such a venture would have RAFMS approval and support. Naturally, any such band would be run along the lines of the established RAF bands in terms of size, instrumental balance and repertoire. Already in existence are a Royal Marines Association Concert Band and a Guards Association Concert Band, both of which have been very successful in their comparatively short histories to date.

The obvious potential 'gigs' would be RAFMuSA events and concerts generated through contacts with organisations such as RAFA, the RAF Benevolent Fund, SSAFA and the British Legion - or any other charitable organisations that would be appropriate (not necessarily service related). I anticipate that there may be more RAFMuSA members wishing to play in a Concert Band than would be feasible in terms of instrumental balance and I have suggested that Principal Players be appointed and then sections brought up to strength using players on a rotational basis if necessary. However, it is very important that musical standards are consistent if people are going to be paying to hear the band in performance, otherwise the venture could be counter-productive.

The current system of forming a Veterans Band at reunions would be continued in order that all RAFMuSA members have the opportunity to play in an informal setting - some may not wish (or be able) to commit to Concert Band rehearsals and performances.

Initially, the band would be reliant on RAFMS for the use of bandrooms to rehearse and for library facilities. In the longer term, we should work to decrease rather than increase dependency on these facilities. The geographical spread of potential band members is also going to be a major consideration in determining rehearsal venues and the question of ancillary equipment such as percussion instruments and music stands also needs to be considered. Another longer-term aim may be to have some form of uniform concert dress and stand banners to consolidate a professional and service-related image - it may be possible to attract sponsorship for such expenditure.Obviously, the ideas outlined above are only proposals at this stage but will hopefully provide some food for thought. The potential is huge, but it is important that there should be a strictly adhered-to schedule of progress/development if the Concert Band comes to fruition — trying to do too much too soon would be a potential recipe for disaster as we will be relying on the goodwill of members and also RAFMS to lay firm foundations. A realistic limit would also need to be set on the number of engagements that could be undertaken annually, not only to avoid overstretching our resources but also to ensure that high musical standards can be maintained. However, in the longer term there is no reason why an RAFMuSA Concert Band should not become a respected ensemble with a high reputation.

Kenneth Bell joined RAF Music Services in 1979 after graduating in Music from Edinburgh University and working for a year as a freelance flute player in Scotland. He was Principal Flautist of the Central Band for over twenty years and also Bandmaster of the Central Band from 1997 until 2005 and of the RAF Regiment Band from 2005 until 2010, ending his.career as Senior Bandmaster in RAFMS. Since leaving the RAF Ken has worked as a freelance flautist and conductor and is also a Music Examiner for Trinity College. In 2011 he was commissioned into the RAFVR(T) as Director of Music (Training) for the ACO, working for HQ Air Cadets at RAF Cranwell.

Kenneth Bell

If you are interested in becoming a member of a potential RAFMuSA Concert Band please write to Ken Bell at 1 Radnor Road, Harrow, Middlesex HAI IRY including your full contact details, instrument(s) played, a brief resume of your RAF Band service and any relevant details regarding musical training and qualifications and non-RAF playing experience. Also, if you are in contact with ex-RAF musicians who are not currently members of RAFMuSA, please let them know about this new venture and encourage them to join the Association. Once we have a workable number of musicians we can start thinking seriously about the band's debut performance!


2012 AGM and Reunion at RAF CranwellSaturday 7th and Sunday 8th July

The dinner on Saturday was held at the Masonic Rooms in Water Gate, Sleaford with around 40 members and guests. We were delighted to welcome as Guest of Honour, Wing Commander Andrew Sandilands, Officer Commander, Support Wing at RAF Cranwell.

On Sunday morning, the Reception was held at the Regiment Bandroom with tea and coffee. Members then transferred to the Eden Centre for the AGM which was followed by lunch.

There was a good turn-out for the VetsBlow and augmented by Regiment Band players who filled in on the missing instruments. It was an honour and a delight to play with such excellent players; pieces included '633 Squadron,' which I enjoyed playing for the first time; it was written for the film of the same name in 1964, long after I left the service. It is always a firm favourite with players and audiences alike.

A very satisfying day in which members were again able to meet up with their colleagues and share laughs, stories and memories. Altogether a very happy event.See you all again this year?

After lunch, members were transported by coach to Whittle Hall where they were treated to a fine concert by the RAF Regiment Band. This was followed by the VetsBlow conducted by Matthew Little in the Whittle Hall. The 'Regiment March,' was conducted by its composer, Fred Jameson.

Norman Blow

Alan BallHarold Colman Alto saxCaroline CatchesideAlan MossfordJohn Dablin ClarinetMichael NorthMary DaviesBarrie HingleyEric Entwistle ClarinetGarry Smith TromboneRoy BarlowFrank ManningSue Rea Flugel hornSydney SwancottStuart ScarfePatrick PaiseyVelma MGreadyJames AdairDuncan StubbsMatthew Little Co-conductor

Members present on Sunday ; an instrument against the name indicates that they participated in the VetsBlow.

Richard Chadwick TrumpetMalcolm Goodman HornNorman Blow OboeBrian ColvilleJoe WallaceBob WellardGraham LathamBrian LancasterFred Jameson Co-conductorJohn Snelling TubaTed TuplingDave Paciello FluteDavid DrinkwaterKenneth WilliamsPam BanksFrank Derry BassoonKen Nelson ClarinetJohn Bosworth HornJohn AbsonRoger Longcroft Trombone

John Meredith Eb bassBen Tierney CornetPeter Smith Eb bassLawrence Hudson Alto saxHarry Dudley Alto/Tenor SaxStevie Dudley CornetJohn BerryDes NinehamJack Brear Bass tromboneTerry Weston Eb bassUnity Slade-HowardDavid Willmore TromboneBarry CliftonTrevor Booth HornEddie AdairTony FowlesAstra AttridgeSue WisemanJohn Innes CornetDennis Harrison


Saturday Reception and Dinner

Masonic Halls, Sleaford



Annual General Meeting and Lunch

Eden Centre, RAF Cranwell


RAF Regiment Band Concert and VetsBlow

Whittle Hall


That's all for now. We look forward to seeing you at Northolt in July!


A Bridge Too Far?

A 1947 photograph of No 1 Regional Band with the Forth Bridge in the background taken during the 'Wings' stage production national tour. WO Harry Wheeler is on the far right, and right of centre rear is Sgt Mac McCarthy.

Numerous members of the band were most successful in post-service careers:John Kirkwood (tuba),became the head botanist/gardener for Glasgow City Corporation and responsible for the maintenance of 82 municipal parks and gardens. He was, formerly, a member of Clydebank Burgh and Renfrew Borough Bands.Alex Murray became a Professor at Ohio University and wrote a treatise on the famous flautist Alexander and his system of breathing.Roger Stalman, bassoonist and a singer in the band, became famous as a bass-baritone and recorded for Pye Records.Ken Hopkins became First Horn with the Carl Rosa Opera Company.Ivan March became a much-noted author and wrote 'The Penguin Guide to CDs.' He was also a reviewer for the 'Gramophone' magazine and a compiler and editor. Peter Appleyard later joined the RCAF Band. He was also a member of the Benny Goodman Orchestra and had his own TV show in Canada.

Secretary Wanted

The Association Secretary is the first point of contact with both the members and the public. The Secretary is responsible for; 1 Organising the booking of the venue, drafting agendas, and communicating with the Chairman in all aspects of the committee meetings, which are usually held four times a year.2 Taking of minutes of committee meetings and distributing them to all committee members promptly to enable members to read, digest, make notes and react to the tasks agreed upon.3 Being actively involved with the Annual Reunion and AGM Weekend; compiling information sheets, treasurer's reports and agenda for the members and taking minutes at the meeting. These need to be circulated to members in sufficient time before the date of the following AGM in order to allow

members time to prepare nominations, questions, suggestions, proposals etc in the proper way.It is desirable that the Secretary has access to the internet and has an email address.Finally, it is a recommendation that the Secretary resides within easy travelling distance of RAF Northolt.

If you are interested and can help, please contact me or Ben Tierney. Editor


"Band . . . Ready!!"

I am indebted to my friend and former colleague John Lambert, from our service together over 50 years ago as cornetists with the RAF No. 5 Regional Band under DOM Flt. Lt JohnMartindale, for a copy of a most rare and fascinating Manual of Band Drill. Published in 1949 we present a selection for our members' interest and information. Of special interest are the photographs of the Central Band against the familiar Uxbridge scenes. These background scenes will undoubtedly never be forgotten and are now consigned to the pages of history and our memories of those former times. The instrumentalists featured in these pictures will be familiar to many members. John, as will be recalled, was the bandmaster and also very fine vocalist of the Central Band some years ago, and following his retirement saw further military service as Major Lambert FTCL. LRAM. ARCM. LGSM. LLCM with the Royal Omani Armed Forces.

Joe Stott

Robert Wray


Paragraph 26. Swinging of the staff by the drum major during ordinary routine or ceremonial parade is not advocated in established bands of the Royal Air Force. Should this form of showmanship be required for band evolutions at displays, however, the swinging of the staff is to be left entirely to the discretion of the drum major, who alone knows his own capabilities. Paragraph 27 Saluting. When the band is on parade, only the director of music (or band master) and drum major are to salute, the right hand being used.

Paragraph 32 Since it is usual to place the trombones in the front rank, marches with uninteresting parts for the trombones should, if possible, be avoided.

Quotes from the Manual!

Paragraph 21 The Band Wheel (Left). The detail of movement is the same as for the Right Wheel except that left is substituted for right.

Below: Hector Markey, who I believe was an oboist and who was my tutor in the School of Music in 1953 [Ed]

Above; Lloyd Tyrell


The RAF March - An Iconic Piece of British Music Most readers of this magazine will have played the RAF March hundreds, if not thousands of times, and there is perhaps a tendency to take it for granted. There are, however, grounds forclaiming that it is one of the most musical, if not THE most musical of the Regimental, Corps, and Service marches. It is certainly the only such military march that I have heard played by an orchestra on the radio. This was the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic on Classic FM and the orchestra would not have recorded a piece of military music unless they considered it to have musical value.

The March has a good pedigree as it was written by two fine musicians who were the first two Organising Directors of Music (ODM) when the Royal Air Force was first formed, andwho both went on to fill significant posts in the world of professional civilian music. Walford Davies became Sir Walford Davies, Master of the King's Musik and a well-knownbroadcaster on musical subjects with the BBC during the l940s, while George Dyson became Principal of the Royal College of Music. .

In 1918, Davies was the first ODM and part of his task of organising a band system for the recently formed Service was to produce a new march for the RAF. He wrote an introductionthat included fragments of bugle calls from the Royal Flying Corps and the Royal Naval Air Service, which were the two units from which the new Royal Air Force was formed. This was followed by the catchy main theme that is so familiar today.

In 1919, he retired to civilian life and was succeeded by George Dyson, who added a broad Trio to the march after both men agreed that this was needed to give musical balance to themain theme. Dyson then arranged for the lengthened march to be published, but unfortunately, he failed to make sure that he was credited as joint composer before he also returned to civilian life in 1920. In the late '20s he wrote complaining about this, but nothing changed until the early l980s when the unfortunate omission emerged during historical research.

A letter was written and sent from HQMS and since then the RAF March has been credited to both Davies and Dyson. All of the above is included in the first chapter of 'More Music In The Air,' and someone at the BBC must have read the book and decided that this would be a good subject for a short film. The BBC were (and, I think, still are) making an irregular series of short films, each dealing with an iconic piece of British music. All are made to be shown on BBC I 's 'The One Show,' and each is presented by Gyles Brandreth.As author, I agreed to take part, and the PDM agreed that the Central Band could be filmed playing the RAF March on the parade ground at RAF Northolt. After a recce and several telephone discussions, we all gathered at Northolt in September of last year, for a scheduled eight hours of filming and recording. The film was expected to be focused on Dyson adding the Trio to the march, but not getting the credit for many years despite complaining.

However, as the day wore on, Gyles Brandreth homed in on the fact that Davies became a uniformed major with the post of ODM straight from civvy street on the Old Boy network. He also wrote his original march as a piece of piano music with a metronome speed of 132. It is difficult not to draw the conclusion that this fine musician, whose first loves were choral and organ music, closely followed by orchestral music, didn't have a clue about how to write for military bands. So, all credit to Gyles for spotting the most interesting approach for the film.Eight hours were spent filming and recording and the footage was then edited down to a film lasting about fifteen minutes., which was broadcast on 'The One Show' in December.It is now on YouTube and if you are interested you can find it at the following link:http://www.youtube.com/watchv=mdidSOUL3GQThere is also a news item on the RAF Music Services website with the same link under the title; The Central Band of the Royal Air force on The One Show!Happy viewing!

Ian Kendrick


RAF Padgate Voluntary Band

Referring to the 2011 winter edition of The Blue and the Gold Page 22, there is a photograph of a sextet playing at the Officers' Mess at RAF Padgate. I can updatethat with the enclosed photos. The alto player is the same as in your picture, Alan Jamison. The other picture includes the same sergeant trumpet player,F (Frank, I think ) Lees. I am the bass player.

Ray Kitchen

Alan Jamison

Breaking News! Another historic landmark to disappear?

I have heard from various sources that Earls Court Exhibition Centre is to be closed and demolished to be replaced by a housing development scheme. Is this is so then another of our well-remembered venues will have been a thing of the past. Most of us will have been involved in the regular military shows there over the years, I took part in the 1957 show with the RAF Regiment Band; in fact we have a recording of that event and this can be obtained from Tony Fowles on a CD. (See Page 28). There must be many stories of past times - we have published one or two in recent editions (See Page 3 in this issue), so let's have some memories of times spent in this iconic hall.

Norman Blow

The RAF March (cont)


A New Eastern Representative

We extend a warm welcome to John Snelling who has taken over the role of Representative for Eastern England. See Page 32 for details of how to contact him.

Congratulations to our President, Barrie Hingley on his engagement to Elaine. They are planning to marry in the Spring. We extend our best wishes to them for a long and happy life together.

A very warm welcome also to the following new members;

Mr Anthony HuxhamCornet 1944-471946-47 No 1 Regional BandPrincipal cornet under H E Wheeler

Mrs Jan Cawthra (nee Frost)Bass Trombone 1964-67WRAF Central Band

Mr James Booth (Associate member)Son of member of RAF Medical Service and interested in military music since 1964. Member of IMMS(UK), RAFA and Lincolnshire Lancasters Association.

Mr David R Shakespeareson of Don ShakespeareTpt/Cornet1973 -75 Germany Voluntary Band1975 - 1989 Middlesex Yeomanry Association (Acton)

Norman J Yates 1955 -1989Associate member - Band enthusiast

M R C Sherlock(Michael Robin Castle)1954-56Clarinet and Cymbal54-56 RAF College Band Cranwell

Alan HollowellClar/Ten Sax 1950 - 54RAF College Band

Mr Bryan MillingtonTpt/Cornet1949/761949-63 RAF Central Band63-66 FEAF Band66 - 67 Regiment Band67 - 71 Germany band71 - 76 College Band

Mr David G CouttsTenor Sax 1984-96RAF Regiment BandRAF Germany BandRAF College Band

Mr Raymond Barnes1959-67 Tpt & Trombone1959 RAF Bridgnorth Vol Band1959-60 RAF Calshot Vol Band1964 -80 Dereham Town Band (for RAF Swanton Morley)1980 - Various brass bands

We are sorry to report the deaths of the following and send our condolences to their friends and families

Tony CrosseRay MartinKen SimsFrances Spring (nee Giles) ( WRAF side drummer 1947-49)Kath Thomson (wife of Fred Thomson)Charlie Wilson

Bob Wray writes:Can any member please assist my enquiries with the current postal address of Elgar (Gary) Howarthwhom I wish to contact? His previous address was known to be in Hailsworth in Suffolk. An orchestral trumpet player, in his early career a member of RAF Central Band and in later years prominent as a member of the Philip Jones Brass Ensemble,the conductor of the famous Grimethorpe Colliery Band and composer/arranger of note.


BookshelfThere are many books available on all aspects of service life and history. Here is a small selection. Please let me know of any others which you have found interesting and wish to share with others. I have copies which members are welcome to borrow.

Wings over Malaya George Richey Bishop Street Press 01743 343 718George Richey tells his story of training as an army light aircraft pilot and his role in Malaya during the Communist

terrorist activities in the 1950s.

The Lovely Sergeant Alan Burgess William Heinemann Ltd 1963The true story of the Flora Sandes and her role with the Serbian Army during the Balkans War 1914 -1918

An Airman Far Away Eric Fry An account of an Australian air-gunner who served with the RAF as a member of the famous 617 Squadron (The

Dam Busters) and was killed during the infamous raid in May 1943.

The Full Nelson - My Life in Music Ken NelsonKen tells the story of his time in the Music Services 1946 - 52 and his career afterwards. Published by Ken Nelson and available from me for a small donation to the Association funds plus postage - Ed.

Mosquito C Martin Sharp & Michael J. F. Bowyer FaberThe definitive story of the legendary wooden aeroplane of the Second World War. 500 pages!

The History of Changi Henry Probert Changi University Press www. changimuseum.com

"This book mirrors the growth of Singapore and its wider history, providing a record of major milestones in the country's steady progress to developed nation status."

Music in Blue Gilbert A Singleton Eagle & Lyre Publications 2007Subtitled - "Uniforms of Musicians in the Royal Air Force and its Predecessors - A Photographic History" this volume gives a chronological and fascinating account of the RAF band uniforms since its foundaton in 1918. Lots of photographs, many never published before - look carefully - you may be in one of them! I am!

More Music in the Air Ian KendrickA history of music in the Royal Air Force, told through those who have been part of it.A complimentary copy was despatched to all current members of RAFMusA in 2010

Banding is my Life Denzil StevensSania Music Publishing

A Long Way from Home Nigel Springthorpe

Troubadour Publishing 2012The story of LAC Andy Marshal and his national service days in RAF Changi interspersed with a nine-month posting to RAF Labuan. Very atmospheric for those who

have served in the Far East, especially Labuan.

Our valetta, during the FEAF Band's first trip to Hong Kong via Labuan and Clarkfield in the Philippines. 10 September 1954 Ed.


NEW!Tony Fowles has transferred some vintage recordings from vinyl to CD. Order yours now and relive some of those memories. Address on Page 32

These CDs include some vintage recordings of RAF bands and are now available exclusively to RAFMusic Services Association members for a donation of £5.00 per CD to cover production costs (plus postage).

1. REGIMENT BAND — Flt. Lt. Eric Banks - 19712. PATHFINDERS - REGlMENT BAND — Flt. Lt. Eric Banks — 19723. RED ARROWS — REGIMENT BAND - Flt. Lt. Eric Banks — 19724. GUSTAV HOLST — CENTRAL BAND & BMC (Oxford) BAND — Wg. Cdr. Wallace - 19665. PER ARDUA AD ASTRA — CENTRAL BAND — Wg. Cdr. Wallace — 19686. COLLEGE BAND — Flt. Lt. Tomsett — 19827. TRIBUTE IN MUSIC — MASSED BANDS — Wg. Cdr. Eric Banks 19858. ROYAL TOURNAMENT 1957 (RAF Regiment Band - Sqn Ldr J Cash) & 1973 RAF Massed Bands9. BATTLE OF BRITAIN — SOUTHERN BAND — Flt. Lt. B Sturnham -197510. FAREWELL - WRAF CENTRAL BAND — Sqn. Ldr. N Warnes — 1972 (4 Tracks)11. MARCH TO MARS — ROYAL MILITARY BAND (HOLLAND) — Capt. Pierre Kuypers12. IN CONCERT - WESTERN BAND - F.O. Ian Kendrick - 197913. FLYING HIGH - WESTERN BAND — Sqn. Ldr. V H Hutchinson- 197514. FLYING FESTIVAL - GERMANY BAND — F.O. Officer H B Hingley15. FLYING HIGH - GERMANY BAND — PO. H B Hingley16. CENTRAL BAND OF THE RAF — Wg. Cdr. A.E. Sims 1957 (4 Tracks)17. WORLD TOUR - SOUTHERN BAND — F.O. BJ. Sturnham 197018. TUNES OF GLORY — SOUTHERN BAND — Flt. Lt. B J. Sturnham 1974

All CDs have been updated with individual tracks. For full information visit the RAFMusA website and click on Vintage Recordings. Members who bought CDs at the Reunion and would like to replace them with these updated discs, please contact Tony Fowles ( details on the Web site) or send £1.50 to cover p&p with details of which CDs purchased.

*Dear Tony, Thank you very much for the final two packages which arrived this morning. Your work in reproducing these historical items is very much appreciated. Best wishes, Norman Yates

*Norman has bought all 18 CDs! Is this a record? [Ed}

Forthcoming Events for the Royal Air Force Bands

Sat 2 Mar Help for Heroes ConcertSt Paul's School, Woodburn GreenSalon Orchestra and a woodwind ensemble of RAF Central Band

Thurs 7 MarRecruiting and Commissioning ConcertRoyal Welsh College of Music and DramaRAF Central Band

Sat 9 MarchCharity Concert The Sheen Lane Centre, MortlakeRAF Squadronaires

Sat 23 MarchService of Remembrance for Sgt RC FitzgeraldStaplehurst Parish ChurchThe Brass Quintet of the RAF Central Band

Fri 5 AprRAF Benevolent Fund ConcertJohnfretwell Sporting Complex, WarsopRAF College Band

Thurs 14/ Fri 15 FebHelp for Heroes Charity ConcertSouth Holland Centre, SpaldingRAF Swing Wing

Wed 20 FebSoloist RecitalLincoln CathedralRAF College Band

Thurs 21 FebWoodwind Ensemble RecitalLincoln CathedralRAF College Band

Sat 6 Apr433 Sqn Memorial Concert in aid of RAFBFHambleton Forum, NorthallertonRAF Regiment Band

Wed 13, Fri 19 & Tues 23 AprilLunchtime RecitalSt Clement Danes Church The Strand, LondonAn ensemble of the RAF Central Band

Fri 22 FebBrass Ensemble RecitalLincoln CathedralRAF College Band


!""#$%&'

(") The 'In-thing.'

I've have been in many places, but I've never been in Cahoots.You can't go alone. You have to be in Cahoots with someone.

I've also never been in Cognito. I hear no one recognizes you there.

I have, however, been in Sane.They don't have an airport; you have to be driven there. I havemade several trips there, thanks to my friends, family and work. I live close, so it's a short drive.

I would like to go to Conclusions, but you have to jump, and I'm not too much on physical activity anymore.

I have also been in Doubt. That is a sad place to go, and I try not to visit there too often.

I've been in Flexible, but only when it was very important to stand firm.

Sometimes I'm in Capable, and I go there more often as I'm getting older.

One of my favourite places to be is in Suspense! It really gets the adrenalin flowing and pumps up the old heart! At my age I need all the stimuli I can get!

And, sometimes I think I am in Vincible but life shows me I amnot.

People keep telling me I'm in Denialbut I'm positive I've never been there before!

I have been in Deepshit many times; the older I get, the easier it is to get there. I actually kind of enjoy it there.

So far, I haven't been in Continent;but my travel agent says I'll be going soon.

Ed; I think the best places to be are in Tuneand in Harmony!

On a beautiful summer's day, two tourists were driving through Wales. At the village of Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrymdrobwyllllantysiliogogoch, they stopped for lunch.One of the tourists asked the waitress,"Before we order, I wonder if you could settle an argument for us. Can you pronounce where we are, very, very. slowly?"The girl leaned over and said, "Burrr...gerrr...king!"

Eleven people were hanging on to a rope suspended from a helicopter - 10 men and 1woman.The rope was not strong enough to carry them all so they decided that one person had to leave, otherwise they were all going to fall.They weren't able to decide who that person would be until finally the woman gave a very touching speech.She said that she would voluntarily let go of the rope, because, as a woman, she was used to giving up everything for her husband and kids or for men in general, and was used to making sacrifices with little in return.As soon as she had finished her speech, the men were so touched that they started clapping. . . .

A travelling salesman finds himself stranded in the Australian outback. He knocks on the door of a little hotel. 'Sorry, we don't have a spare room,' says the manager, 'but you're welcome to share with a little red-headed schoolteacher, if that's OK.''Oh, that'll be great,' says the salesman, grinning from ear to ear,' and don't worry, I'll be a real gentleman,''Just as well,' says the manager, 'So will the little red-headed schoolteacher!'

The class was back from summer holidays and the teacher asked Rodney about his family trip.'We visited my grandmother in Llandudno in Wales,' he replied. The teacher asked, 'Good, can you tell the class how you spell that?'Rodney said, 'My mistake, my grandmother lives in Bath!'

A man was in church, thanking God for his new girl-friend.'Lord, why did you make her so beautiful?' he asked.God answered, ' So you could love her, my son.''Lord, why did you make her so kind-hearted?''So that you could love her, my son.''Lord, why did you make her such a good cook?''So that you could love her, my son.''Lord, I don't mean to seem ungrateful or anything, butwhy did you make her so stupid?''So that she could love you, my son.'

A man walked into a Chinese Restaurant with a gun, held up the man behind the counter and said, 'I want all your money.'The Chinaman replied, 'Yes Sir. To take away?'


SubscriptionsWAR ZONES MEDALSTHE GENERAL SERVICE MEDAL Those of you who are 80 or over, qualify for

FREE life membership. All you have to do is let me know and I will amend the details in the membership directory.

The G.S.M. was introduced for the Army/RAF in 1918 and again from 1962 onwards.Generally speaking it is awarded for 30+ days accumulated service in a particular war zone. (Musicians sent to or bands touring war zones.)There are many variants, including the GSM 1962 Operational Service Medal.

To find out more about entitlement contact:M.O.D. Medal OfficeBuilding 250Innsworth StationGloucester GL3 1HWor Fax: 01452 510871

John Dablin

Have you tried the RAF Music Services website yet?

All members will have ben informed and given detailed instructions on how to access and use it in the Newsletter which was sent out at the end of March last year. Simply get on to www.rafmusa.org and follow the instructions about how to register, with your user-name and password etc. There you will find full information about the Association including our members' directory.Also information and news plus concert dates for the three RAF Bands. If you experience any problems with registering etc please contact John Dablin, Membership Secretary, who devised and set up the site.

Did you serve at RAF Changi including HQFEAF? If so, would you like to receive information about the thriving RAF Changi Association which includes HQ FEAF?

Please contact our Membership Secretary Malcolm Flack for a free enquiry pack at 01494 728562 or e-mail [email protected]

We'll meet again!Photographs.

Following the success of the WRAFCB group on Facebook and the pleasure we have had in contacting old friends, it has been suggested that we should have some kind of get-together. A number of ideas have been floated but as nothing concrete has come about on this, I was wondering whether we might arrange to meet informally, somewhere central such as Nottingham or Lincoln, which would be of roughly equal distance from wherever we live. It doesn't have to be a whole weekend, which can be pretty expensive these days, but just the day out to have lunch and laugh over old times.

I'm not the best person at organising this sort of thing, so if anyone would like to take it on, then please do, otherwise I'll give it a go. You can contact me on s.r,[email protected] or visit the Facebook group. Here's hoping to see you this year.

Sue Rea writes;

When submitting photographs to be considered for publication, please write your name on the back and if possible, any names or information. If a photograph gets detached from its article it is often difficult to identify. My New Year's resolution this year is to tidy up my Blue and Gold material!!I still have some photographs and I have returned as many as I can. If I still have a photograph of yours, please contact me and I will endeavour to identify and return it. Where members have indicated that they do not wish to have pictures/articles/cuttings returned, these will eventually go into the Association archives. Ed.

email

Important. Would all members who have an email address please inform John Dablin so that he can update the Association records.

32


Royal Air Force Music Services Association

Wing Commander H B Hingley, 2 Glenthorne Close, Uxbridge, Middx UB10 0lS

Hon President

Vice President Robin Shillitto, 19 Chapel Crofts, Northchurch, Berkhampstead, Herts HP4 3XG Tel: 01442 461347 [email protected]

Ben Tierney, 3 Royd Place, Cononley, Keighley, West Yorks BD20 8JT Tel: 01535 636823 [email protected]

Chairman

Frederick Jameson,15 Binns Road, Chiswick, London W4 2BS Tel: 0208 9954274 [email protected]

Vice Chairman

Secretary Post vacant

Treasurer & Membership Secretary

John Dablin, 10 Heath Close, Aylesbury, Bucks HP21 9UATel: 01296 433763 [email protected]

Welfare Secretary Ms Unity Slade, 5 Elderslie Close, Eden Park, Beckenham, Kent BR3 3BBTel: 0208 650 8398 [email protected]

Publicity Officer, North England & Scotland Rep

Robert Wray, 6 Windsor Drive, Cleadon, Sunderland, Tyne and Wear SR6 7SY Tel: 0191 5372633 [email protected]

Archivist Post vacant

Eastern Rep John Snelling 35 Swan Road, Dereham, Norfolk NR19 1AG Tel: 01362 693763 [email protected]

Chris Terry 25 Beaumont Road Worthing BN148HE Tel: 01903 232597

South East Rep

South West Rep Mr Tony Fowles 100 Queensholm Drive Downend Bristol BS16 6QL Tel: 0117 956 3580 [email protected]

Midlands and Voluntary Band Rep

Dave Twitchings 89 Grangeway Rushden Northants NN10 9EW Tel: 01933 316582 [email protected]

Miss Sue Wiseman 4 Bridge Street Newport Essex CB11 3THTel: 01799 541802

WRAF Central Band Rep

Fred Jameson 15 Binns Road Chiswick London W4 2BS Tel: 0208 9954274 [email protected]

Overseas Rep

Editor Norman Blow "Cherith" 29 Pilgrims Road Halling Rochester Kent ME2 1HN Tel: 01634 240893 [email protected]

National Service (RAF) Association

NS(RAF) Association Annual Reunion and AGM

Friday 11 - Monday 14 October 2013

Tillington Hall Stafford

Includes a trip to Shugborough Hall, Live entertainment, Gala Dinner and a visit to the National Memorial Arboretum

NS(RAF) Association RAF Cosford Weekend

Fri 31 May - Monday 3 June 2013

Reunion and Parade, Sunday 2nd June

Exhibition stands and displays including a stand representing the RAF Music Services Association. Come and support us.

Contact Pat Honey on 01782 516887 for further information and for details of membership

Jerome Gatehouse Collection Trust & Military Band ArchiveThe trust is now up and running and has 50 members (including 13 corporate members.)

The Chairman Noel Trigg, writes in the latest newsletter ...We now have a name for our Friends of Jerome Gatehouse Collection Trust Newsletter, which is ..

Banding Together.

Hopefully this should get our members to be more pro-active in helping the charity get known more in the wider community. We are now receiving support from the local business community, with help dealing with Gift Aid and finding somewhere to house the collection. Also leaflets about the collection have been displayed at a local business networking event, with the expectation that more business networking events will display the leaflets.

For more details of the Trust and possibly becoming a member, please contact Anne Gatehouse 01633 781612

Back Cover picture: Her Majesty the Queen at The Military Muster outside Windsor Castle

Promoting welfare funding through the performance of live music by RAF musicians.

For further information contactMalcolm H Goodman MBE (Honorary AdministratorRAF Music Charitable Trust39 Bristow Road, Cranwell Village, Sleaford, NG34 8FG

Tel: 01400 262362www.rafmusic.org.uk

Documents

The Blue and the Gold - Royal Air Force Music Services Association | For Royal …€¦ · · 2013-02-20Judging by your kind remarks and comments, ... "The Blue and the Gold," as