Many young people play instruments, and out of those a majority play in some kind of youth orchestra or band of some description. So when I joined the squadron band I didn't think much to it, I had been playing the flute for 6 years at the time, and I thought it would be a great opportunity for me, and it was. Like many bands we compete, play for parades, play concerts, and we have been known to play at birthday parties (see band news items).

I went flying at RAF Cosford in January and one of the staff cadets, a CI (Civilian Instructor) was talking to me about bands. I explained that our squadron had a band and what I did in it. The following week he contacted me and told me that I had been asked to come along to the band practises at the RAFCAVB (which is a bit of a mouthful but means the Royal Air Force Cosford Area Voluntary Band) on a Monday night. I went along and enjoyed it, it was so different from playing with the squadron because everybody at Cosford is an experienced musician and many play with other bands.

The weekend after my first practise with them I played at Copthorne barracks in Shrewsbury for an officer's mess function. There's nothing like being thrown in at the deep end! Since then I have played many concerts with them, but due to college commitments and my Gliding Scholarship I haven't been able to get across to many practises, but as soon as I get chance I will return.

It just goes to show that the air cadets is a brilliant way to capture many opportunities that you wouldn't get elsewhere in life. I wouldn't have done half the things that I have if it wasn't for the cadets.

Article Submitted by:-
Cdt FS B Slade - 121 (Nuneaton) Squadron
04 Nov 03