Army

Pomp and ceremony: Band of the Household Cavalry takes to London's streets for Spring Drills

The Band of the Household Cavalry proceeded down the Mall in in full ceremonial Winter Dress — The Band of the Household Cavalry proceed down the Mall in full ceremonial Winter Dress

But this was no ordinary day at work for the equine musicians - it's Spring Drills — This was no ordinary day at work for the equine musicians; it was Spring Drills

This training prepares the horse and rider for some of the biggest events of the year

From next month's State Visit to The King's Birthday Parade in June — From next month's State Visit to the King's Birthday Parade in June

For the horses, it prepares them for the hustle and bustle of the crowds

For the musicians - many of whom have only recently begun performing on horseback - it is vital practice — For the musicians – many of whom have only recently begun performing on horseback – it gives them the opportunity to refine their skills in the saddle

This annual, intensive preparation ensures the Band maintains the high standard of "pomp and ceremony" required by the Household Division. — This annual, intensive preparation ensures the band maintains the high standard of "pomp and ceremony" required by the Household Division

What does it take to prepare a horse for a Royal parade?

This week, tourists in London discovered the answer as the Household Cavalry Mounted Band accompanied the King's Life Guard from Knightsbridge to Horse Guards Parade as part of the annual Spring Drills.

This training prepares both horses and soldiers for some of the most significant ceremonial events of the year – from next month's State Visit, when the President of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, accompanied by the First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, will be welcomed at Windsor Castle, to the King's Birthday Parade in June.

This is more than tradition – it is essential preparation. The military working horses must remain calm and steady through the cheering crowds, rousing tunes of the bands and the flash of cameras, so the drills get them and their riders accustomed to the noises.

Meanwhile, it gives the musicians – many of whom have only recently learnt to perform on horseback – the opportunity to practise their skills in the saddle.

All images courtesy of the MOD.