The HMS Heron Volunteer Band will return to Royal Navy Museums: Naval Aviation this December for two evenings of festive music beneath the iconic Concorde aircraft.
Taking place on Thursday 10 and Friday 11 December, Christmas Concert under Concorde will feature seasonal favourites and classic pieces, continuing a Christmas tradition for audiences in the local area.
Based at Royal Naval Air Station (RNAS) Yeovilton in Somerset, the band brings together serving and former members of the Armed Forces, alongside civilians from the base and surrounding area. For its members, the band is as much about friendship and community as it is about music.
“The Christmas Concert under Concorde is a great venue to play in and is a firm favourite with all members of the band as well as the people who come to see us,” said Musical Director, Mr Bob Spiller. “We like to showcase all aspects of what we can do and audiences can look forward to some exciting new pieces that we have for this year, interspersed with some Christmas standards that will involve audience participation to warm up the vocal cords for the festive period. Our Corps of Drums will also feature and all in all, a great night of entertainment is there to be had.”
The concert’s distinctive setting is part of its appeal. One visitor who attended last year’s event said: “It was our first time attending and the four of us really enjoyed it. The band was amazing, and what an honour to sit beneath Concorde and listen to them perform.”
General Manager Marc Farrance said, “We’re delighted to welcome the HMS Heron Volunteer Band back for another year of Christmas Concerts under Concorde. It’s a truly special setting for an evening of festive music, and the concerts have become a much-loved part of the Museum calendar. We look forward to welcoming visitors to share in the atmosphere, celebrate the season and enjoy this unique experience beneath Concorde.“
Concertgoers will be welcomed with mulled wine and a mince pie on arrival, with tea and coffee served during the interval.
By attending events at Royal Navy Museums, visitors also help support the conservation and preservation of Britain’s naval heritage. Revenue from events such as Christmas Concert under Concorde contributes towards the ongoing care of the UK’s historic naval collections and vessels.
Doors open at 7pm, with the concert starting at 7.30pm. Tickets start at £22.
Tickets are available at Royal Navy Museums: Naval Aviation.
