British Army Band Colchester to be halved in size, with musicians being redeployed
The size of the military band at Colchester Garrison, which is home to 16 Air Assault Brigade, is to be almost halved, the Ministry of Defence has confirmed.
The current strength of 44 musicians will be cut to 23 by the end of the year, according to a written answer to a parliamentary question posed by North Durham Labour MP and former defence minister Kevan Jones.
Defence Minister Dr Andrew Murrison said the reduced band would "focus primarily on delivering Defence engagement activity and providing smaller, more agile ensembles."
Musicians from the British Army Band Colchester – which was previously known as The Band of The Parachute Regiment – will be redeployed to other bands across The Royal Corps of Music to support State Ceremonial duties and operational priorities.
An Army spokesperson said: "The Royal Corps of Army Music (RCAM) is adapting to the needs of a modern British Army, of which music is an important component of influence.
"RCAM is prioritising available trained personnel for a whole spectrum of Defence objectives, such as specialist, agile ensembles that work with our allies and partners, as well as engagement in the UK.
"This is balanced against the need to resource ceremonial operations, which deliver strategic effect at home and overseas.
"Band Colchester will continue to be a vital component of Army Music capability and the Colchester Garrison will continue to be supported by Army Bands."
The number of Army Bands has halved in the past 25 years.
The British Army Band Colchester incorporates The Band of The Parachute Regiment, The Band of the Army Air Corps and The Band of The Queen’s Division.
The band's main roles involve delivering musical support to the Army and the wider Defence community.
Their repertoire includes performances by a full symphonic wind band, a marching band, and smaller groups like brass quintets and jazz ensembles, contributing to prestigious events worldwide.
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