The band started their visit with a concert to 250 children from local primary schools. The children had the opportunity to hear from various musicians and learn about their instruments.

One of the professional trombonists, Joe Purbrook, is an OI and was thrilled to be back at Ipswich School. He made time to meet up with teachers and gave an interview about his career to date which we hope to include in a later feature. 

During the lunch break some of the band members held an outdoor concert in the sunshine for school staff and pupils to enjoy.

In the afternoon, Ipswich School musicians split into sectional rehearsals to practise before attending a full rehearsal ahead of taking part in the second half of the evening concert. 

Mrs Beverley Steensma, Director of Music and Festival Director said, "Thank you to the British Army Band Colchester for your time spent working with the students both in rehearsal and of course in the evening concert.

"This was a great opportunity for our wind and brass players to perform with some of the best musicians in the country."

The principal sponsor of the Festival of Music is OI Karl Daniels who continues to be a great supporter of the music department at Ipswich School and its work with pupils.

There was a retiring collection and £789.05 was raised for the Army Benevolent Fund.