The Saxophone Quartet of the Band of the Royal Regiment of Scotland brought live music back to the residents of the Queens Bay Lodge Crossreach Care Home in Edinburgh when they were visited by Prince William at the end of May. With what was called a ‘varied and challenging’ programme of music, including ‘Round Midnight’, ‘The Pink Panther Theme’ and ‘For the Love of a Princess’ from Braveheart, the quartet demonstrated the full range of their skills to the residents, who had been starved of live music during the pandemic.
‘This was a phenomenal opportunity to give back to the local community in Edinburgh,’ the quartet said in a statement. ‘During the last year, live musical performances have been non-existent. This event gave members of the Band of the Royal Regiment of Scotland the chance to reflect musically, whilst also looking ahead to see where we’re going.
‘Through these difficult times we have all been reminded of the importance of music, not only as a tool to bring people together from all walks of life, but in this particular circumstance, music happened to be a special touch for those enjoying a memorable occasion following a difficult year.’
The occasion marked Prince William’s appointment as The Lord High Commissioner of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland last month. Among the care home residents he met was Betty Magee, 96 and an ex-servicewoman. He discussed the impact of Covid-19 on the home.
Crossreach Care Homes’ team was delighted to have the quartet there and posted on the band’s Facebook page, ‘Thank you again for your contribution at the event. It was a special day for the residents and staff made extra special by such a professional quartet.’
The Band of the Royal Regiment of Scotland is also hosting a series of webinars on musical leadership, effective rehearsal and other subjects. More details can be found here.
