Army Cadets Pipes And Drums Spectacular in Inverness
On Saturday evening at 7 pm [8 April 2006] nearly 150 pipers and drummers of the Army Cadet Force will perform a 'Beating Retreat' outside the Town House in Inverness.
The 'Beating Retreat' comes at the end of seven days intensive training at Cameron Barracks in Inverness, where the Cadets have been receiving extra tuition in the arts of piping and drumming from instructors from the Regular and Territorial Army and the Cadet Forces.
Provost William Smith will take the Salute. He will be accompanied by Major General Andrew Graham, Director General of Army Training and Recruiting.
Commenting on the Cadets week-long experience, one of the organisers Captain Mike Wimberley said: "We are deeply grateful to the Provost and the people of Inverness for allowing the Cadets to play in public following their seven days tuition.
"From previous experience I know how much they look forward to playing at the 'Beating Retreat' in front of members of the public.
"The motto of the Army Cadet Force is 'To Inspire to Achieve' and the expert tuition they have received from the world-class instructors, who are all volunteers, has certainly helped the Cadets maximise their potential.
Captain Wimberley added: "The massed band of 150 Cadets coming down the High Street of the capital of the Highlands is a wonderful sight and sound."
Beating Retreat comes from the French Retraite and was used by all the European armies at the end of the day's work. It has no connection with the tactical manoeuvre of the same name.
After the daily drill or training troops dispersed to look after their personal needs which often included cooking their own meals, foraging for supplies, collecting wood and water and other domestic tasks.
At the close of the working day the troops had to be collected up again, and so the Retreat was beaten by drummers as the order to return to camp for roll call.
At sunset the gates of the town or fortress were closed for the night and the sentries began challenging anybody who approached their posts.
Nowadays the Retreat has two functions. It is still used for mounting the night guard each evening, and in it ceremonial form, it is an occasion when the Pipes and Drums can put on a musical display for spectators.
The audience will be entertained by members of nine battalions of the Army Cadet Force including Cadets from the 1st and 2nd Battalions of The Highlanders ACF. Members of the Air and Sea Cadets will also be on parade.
Highland Council has organised a reception in the Town House for the Cadets following the event.
Provost Smith said: "I marvel at the talents of the band members. The Highland Council is delighted the Cadets chose once again to come to Inverness for their tuition week and for arranging to stage a 'Beating Retreat'.
"I encourage everyone to come and witness an inspiring performance by members of today's youth."
Members of the public should make their way to the Town House and be in place at 6.45 pm for the 7 pm start.
NOTES TO EDITORS
1. You or your representatives are invited to attend the event at 7 pm at the Town Hall, High Street, Inverness IV1 1JJ. Photograph opportunities and interviews will be made available. Telephone Army Press Officer, Bill Jamieson, to register your interest (07900 607919) mobile.
2. The Army Cadet Force is a national voluntary youth organisation. It is sponsored by the Army and provides challenging military, adventurous and community activities.
Its aim is to inspire young people to achieve success in life with a spirit of service to The Queen, their Country and their local community, and to develop in them the qualities of a good citizen. This is achieved by:
- Providing progressive cadet training, often of a challenging and exciting nature, to foster confidence, self reliance, initiative, loyalty and sense of service to other people.
- Encouraging the development of personal powers of practical leadership and the ability to work successfully as a member of a team.
- Stimulating an interest in the Army, its achievements, skills and values.
- Advising and preparing those considering a career in the Services or with the Reserve Forces.
3. There are over 5000 Cadets throughout Scotland, both female and male ranging from 12-18 years old. They are supported by over 1000 adult instructors, both uniformed and civilian.