Beating Retreat

On Wednesday 25th and Thursday 26th May 2016 the Massed Bands of Her Majesty’s Royal Marines will perform their world famous Beating Retreat on Horseguards Parade in honour of the birthday of their Captain General, His Royal Highness The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, KG, KT.

This fantastic event, which only takes place every two years, gives the audience the unforgettable chance to see more than 250 of the world’s finest and most versatile musicians carry out a magnificent pageant of military music, precision drill and colour in the presence of their Royal guests. One of the highlights of this event will be the breath taking Drum Display by the world renowned Royal Marines Corps of Drums.

New for 2016 will be a ceremonial drill display from 100 Royal Marines Commandos, one of the world’s elite fighting forces, set to the stirring music of the Massed Bands, the event promises to be truly breathtaking. With the addition of two giant video screens the audience can get ‘up close and personal’ with the men and women of the Royal Marines Band Service as they go about their business – a truly unique opportunity.

The evening will conclude with the moving and evocative Naval Sunset Ceremony which once witnessed in the historic setting of Horse Guards Parade is surely never to be forgotten.

Taking the salute on the Wednesday is the First Sea Lord, and on Thursday, the Captain General of the Royal Marines, His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh.

This most prestigious of events sees all five bands from across the UK coming together to perform a programme of traditional and contemporary music, with all proceeds going to Service charities.

Don’t miss this opportunity to witness a fabulous ‘Best of British’ event in one of the most iconic venues in Great Britain.