Best of young Highland musicians to perform Beating Retreat at Inverness Leisure
Inverness Leisure is once again hosting the spectacle that is ‘Beating Retreat’, performed by High Life Highland’s (HLH) young musicians next month.
Taking place on the afternoon of Sunday, June 16, the miniature tattoo marks the debut performance of HLH’s new youth pipe band, who will be joined by fellow musicians from across the HLH music tuition spectrum including wind and folk bands.
‘Beating Retreat’ is an iconic military parade dating back to the 1690s. The beating of the drum was originally used to order troops to break off fighting and withdraw, but later signified the closing of camp gates and calling troops back to base. These days, it is strictly ceremonial, and remains a popular element of events such as the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo.
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Norman Bolton, head of music development for HLH, said: “We are delighted to be bringing this fantastic event back to audiences in Inverness for the third year in a row.
“Our talented young musicians, who come from across the Highlands, have been preparing independently ahead of ‘Beating Retreat’, coming together on the morning of June 16 for one final rehearsal before curtain up.
“The event gives these youngsters a rare opportunity to play together in a format that is steeped in tradition and - for the pipe band and folk band - an ideal opportunity to rehearse together before heading to Belgium in September to perform and compete in the Schotsweekend Festival.”
Steve Walsh, chief executive of HLH said: “This event demonstrates brilliantly the importance of access to music tuition for our young people. It offers them a really positive experience and I am grateful to all the dedicated team of Instructors who help to make this all happen.”
Tickets for ‘Beating Retreat’, taking place at 3pm on Sunday, June 16 are £10 for adults and £5 for children. They can be purchased in advanced via EventBrite or people can pay cash at the door. Donations are also welcomed both online and at the event, with all donations going directly into funding young musician opportunities.
The High Life Highland youth pipe band is also looking for a business sponsor to help them rehearse and perform both at home and further afield over the next few years.
The new sponsor will have their business name included in the pipe band’s title and their name and logo featured on the bass drum – as well as mentions in press and publicity associated with the band.
Any businesses interested should email norman.bolton@highlifehighland.com
