Shoppers in Elgin were treated to a military medley in the high street yesterday as they got a taster of this weekend’s Highland Tattoo celebrations.
The Royal Regiment of Artillery Band and the Highlanders’ Pipes and Drums bands marched harmoniously along the Plainstones for about 40 minutes, before attending a reception held by the council in their honour.
Tattoo director Major General Seymour Monro said celebrating the launch in Elgin was a tribute to the town’s contribution to event.
“It’s a great way to promote the Tattoo and let people get a small taste of what a fantastic event it is,” he said.
“Last year some of our bands played in the high street in Inverness and it was a huge success. We thought it would be a great idea to do the same in Elgin, given the huge part Moray plays in the Highland Military Tattoo, providing almost 50% of the performers, as well as many of the spectators and volunteers.
“They have all been busy rehearsing – it’s quite a feat when you consider they only get together for the first time a few days before.”
The impressive celebration of the north’s longstanding military heritage began at Fort George, near Inverness, last night – showcasing an abundance of explosive chanters and colours.
Maj Gen Monro added: “Last night was outstanding. It’s exciting, colourful and full of life. Even the fireworks were stunning.”
Based in Tidworth Garrison, Wiltshire, the Royal Regiment of Artillery Band supplies musical support to the Army around the world. It is the oldest military band in continuous service in the UK and traces its roots back to the Seven Years War (1756-63) when the officers of the Royal Artillery serving in Germany founded the band with eight members to play at social occasions.
Since then, the band has performed all over the world and accompanied many well-known musicians.
The Highlanders are the descendants of the Queen’s Own Highlanders and The Gordon Highlanders. This weekend marks their first time in their home counties since the Battalion returned from Germany to Catterick this summer.
The Highland Military Tattoo continues at Fort George today with a 3pm matinee, before 8pm performances tonight and tomorrow. Tickets are still available.