History, heritage and heroism are all words evoked by the Welsh Guards, one of the most famous regiments in the British Army. From the Somme and Normandy to Iraq and Afghanistan, they have been in the thick of the most demanding operations.
And now they take their place at the front and centre of British pomp and circumstance, with A Royal Tribute from The Band of the Welsh Guards.
Featuring guest performances from Hollywood actor and proud Welshman Michael Sheen, plus Wynne Evans, Welsh soprano Gwawr Edwards and two legendary choirs - Treorchy Male Choir and the Choir of Westminster Abbey.
The Band of the Welsh Guards have signed a major label record deal with Rhino Records (Warner) and their first release will be April 4th.
“It was a really easy decision to sign up The Band of The Welsh Guards,” says Dan Chalmers, head of Rhino, “They are one of the most respected bands in the country, let alone in the army and with their royal involvement and the regiment’s incredible history, there’s little doubt that they will strike a chord with a wide audience.”
The Welsh Guards were formed in 1915 and are one of the most famous Regiments in the British Army serving during the First World War to current day operations.
They are entrenched in Royal Tradition. The Queen is the Colonel in Chief of the Regiment and HRH Prince of Wales is the Colonel of the Regiment and is actively involved.
Major Stephen Barnwell, the band’s Director of Music comments:
“Guards bands are the backbone of royal ceremonies and are recognised the world over. Prince Charles is very close to the regiment and we are very proud to have his Royal Highness as our Regimental Colonel."
Ceremonial Duties are just one part of the Welsh Guards role in the British Army. The Regiment has served on current operations, deploying to Iraq for 6 months in 2004 and undertaking its first operational tour to Helmand Province in June 2009 as part of 19 (Light) Brigade.
The Regiment suffered the loss of 7 men during their tour of Afghanistan and the Band welcomed Welsh soldiers home to their towns and cities leading emotional Homecoming Parades that meant everything to the troops.
“The band led those parades, marching through towns, “says Major Barnwell, “There were masses of people, many crying with pride. It means so much to the regiment, to know that they are appreciated after such a tough time.”
The Band play a vital role for the unit and for the Army as a whole by performing at the most famous of ceremonial duties including Changing the Guard at Buckingham Palace and the annual Queen's Birthday Parade.