The Art of State Ceremonial Music

Wednesday 3 September 2025 at 2.00 pm at the Lowther Pavilion. Guests may attend the lecture – £10 pp (pay on door)

Lecturer: Graham Jones

Dr Graham Jones started his professional life as a musician in the British Army and over a career spanning nearly 40 years he retired as the Senior Director of Music, Household Division and Director of Music, Coldstream Guards. During his career he has recorded over 40 albums, commissioned over 30 new works for wind band, and pioneered a music education programme with the University of Salford for military musicians. Having retired from military service at the start of 2012, Graham is enjoying a second career as a guest conductor, adjudicator, guest speaker, lecturer, clinician, recording consultant and educator. Further information is available on Graham’s website.

The Lecture

The UK provides some of the biggest Ceremonial Events in the world and arguably the best in the world but why is that? How do the military prepare for major events such as State Opening of Parliament, State Visits, National day of Remembrance, Royal Weddings or even a State Funeral?

Caption: Major Tim Cooper, Director of Music of The Blues and Royals conducting the Massed Bands of the Household Cavalry. Creative Commons. Attribution 2.0 Generic license (Sandstein)