RAF Central Band Amazes Washington In RAF 100 Celebrations

The Central Band of the Royal Air Force has had a big part to play as America joins in the RAF100 celebrations.

The band has performed at events across Washington all week, both on their own and together with the US Air Force Concert Band.

On Sunday, the Central Band performed alongside the Queen’s Colour Squadron at the Udvar Hazey Air and Space Museum in Chantilly, Washington.

Then on Monday they performed at DAR Constitution Hall, near the White House, with the USAF Band, after the bands first rehearsed together on Sunday morning.

The Central Band clearly impressed their American counterparts, as Colonel Larry Lang, Commander and Conductor of the US Air Force Concert Band, said: “The Central Band has some great repertoire and so it was fun to hear that for the very first time.

“I plan on stealing that music and using it for my own.”

All of the rehearsals and shows led up to the main event on Wednesday, as the Central Band and USAF Concert Band performed solo and together again at the Strathmore Music Center.

The music played was an Angle-American blend, from the Dambusters to the Eagle Squadron March. 

The US Air Force conductor performed in 50 states and 50 countries worldwide but still said the Strathmore Music Center’s gig was something special.

He said: “This has been an honour for me to have worked with the combined bands.  

“I was so amazed at how well it came together because when they played together it sounded like it was one huge band. " 

“The same intonation, the same balance, the same blend, the same feeling – it was amazing.”

RAF musicians also performed at the Strathmore Music Center in Maryland this week. The Big Band Jazz concert saw the RAF’s Squadronaires perform a special singing face off with the US Air Forces’ Airmen of Note.

It’s going to be a year full of performances for the Central Band of the RAF as they celebrate the centenary.

Flight Lieutenant Chris I'Anson, Director of Music, Central Band of the RAF, said: “It’s going to be such a busy year but everything we’re doing is terrific.

“It’s a real treat for those of us who are involved at this time.

“There’s obviously a huge history of music in the Royal Air Force but to be part of it during the 100th anniversary – it really is very special.”