Birmingham Citadel Band took part in the annual Remembrance parade and service in Birmingham City Centre, in the shadow of the Symphony Hall and the new library.

 

There was typically a large contingency from the armed forces and civic leaders as well as those dignitaries gathered in the “grand stand” and the many thousands of local people who lined the square and the streets around the area. On a cold but dry morning, BCB had marched down Broad Street to the heart of the city.  Many hundreds of onlookers gathered for this annual occasion to remember Birmingham’s fallen soldiers and those currently serving in conflict. 

 

The band presented a thirty minute prelude of suitable music including “I vow to thee my country” (melody from Holst’s “Planet Suite”) and Richard Phillips’ arrangement of “Amazing Grace”. 

 

After the singing of the hymn “O God our help in ages past”, the sobering sounds of rifle fire was followed by The Last Post, two minute silence and Reveille. Dozens of organisations including the Royal British Legion, council representatives and, of course The Salvation Army, laid wreaths at the cenotaph whilst the band continued to play.

 

 

The final march-past saw crowds line the streets, applauding as the parade passed the Hall of Remembrance - the Citadel Band always feels privileged to have been an important part of this special occasion once again.