The Highland Military Tattoo is continuing its tradition of attracting top international performers with the announcement of this year’s headline act.
The 36-member Royal Band of the Belgian Navy, which is based in Ostend on the Belgian north coast, has performed globally and entertained world leaders and dignitaries alike.
The group, which was founded in 1947, plays music of a distinct maritime flavour, complementing the naval theme of this year’s show, which also includes a vignette commemorating the 100th anniversary of the Battle of Jutland.
This year’s Tattoo will run each evening from September 9-11, with a matinee performance on Saturday, September 10. It will begin with its now traditional RAF Typhoon flypast and culminate in a spectacular fireworks display.
Major General Seymour Monro, Highland Military Tattoo director, said: “We are delighted the Royal Band of the Belgian Navy is making its first ever visit to Scotland to join us at the Highland Military Tattoo.
“A group of exceptionally accomplished musicians, they have performed for VIPs all over the world and we are thrilled they will be taking part in what promises to be a fantastic show at Fort George.”
Rosyth-based Band of The Royal Marines Scotland will also be joining the Tattoo line up, fresh from a busy year of official engagements including birthday celebrations for Her Majesty The Queen.
Other acts set to perform included the Inverness and Lossiemouth Military Wives choirs, as well as The Fochaber Fiddlers who were a big hit when they performed at the first edition of the event at Fort George.
There will also be a vignette to commemorate the Battle of the Somme – another key conflict in World War I.