Musicians from the Corps of Army Music recently led their first ever Spring Academy, based in Bury, Greater Manchester.

The four-day programme saw dozens of aspiring musicians from around the UK tutored by players of The Band of the King's Division and The Band of the Royal Armoured Corps, with each also receiving valuable insight into what life might be like if they take up the challenge of becoming an Army musician.

First time away

This was the first time the CAMUS Academy has ever been run outside the Corps' famous HQ in Twickenham, with the event culminating in a joint performance opportunity at Salford University.

It certainly made an impression on the talented youngsters who attended, with 16 year old Brooke Taylor, from Bolton telling 4BR: "It's been a challenge and a really enjoyable eye-opener. I was able to play the music, but the style was so different.

I've always been interested in a military career but this has made me even more so."

Meanwhile 15 year old Isaac Lyons of Ashton-under-Lyne added: "This week has given me an idea of what it would be like if I decided to pursue this as a career.

It's hard work, particularly the organisation that goes into marching while playing, but everyone's been really helpful and it's like an extended family."

I've always been interested in a military career but this has made me even more so16 year old Brooke Taylor from Bolton

Rich pedigree

Summing up the event, Warrant Officer Class 2 John Marsh, of CAMUS, told 4BR: "We chose to hold our first ever Spring Academy in Greater Manchester because of the rich musical pedigree the city-region has.

It really does have a wonderful history of producing great musicians, and we've established excellent contacts with Salford University and The Royal Northern College of Music. This week is about informing these young people about a career in the Army and about getting them to meet and work alongside Army musicians."

Find out more

For more information on the Corps of Army Music visit:

https:/­/­www.army.mod.uk/­who-we-are/­corps-regiments-and-units/­corps-of-army-music.