The Band of the Grenadier Guards, whose poignant playing captured the world’s hearts at Queen Elizabeth II's funeral, are to play in Saddleworth next week.

The 40-strong world famous military ensemble are performing in concert and, privately, at workshops for Saddleworth School students.

The new school in Diggle is hosting a celebration concert on Thursday, October 20 and the iconic band will parade in Uppermill village and play a short public performance in King George V playing fields (Uppermill Park) on Friday, October 21.

The high profile visit has taken months of careful planning by Garrath Beckwith, the school’s head of music.

His lifelong friend Gavin Hall is principal cornet with the band and they grew up together playing in brass bands during the late 90s and beyond.

Garrath said: “The entire band of the Grenadier Guards performed at Queen Elizabeth II funeral procession in Windsor, Her Majesty’s final resting place in St George’s Chapel.

“Gavin was selected to be one of the fanfare team that performed in the Queen's funeral service at Westminster Abbey - an absolute privelege to be one of the seven selected trumpeters from the entire household division in London.

“This is a real testament of how highly regarded Gavin's playing is in British military music.”

The band last played in Saddleworth more than three years ago.

Garrath added: “Once again the aim of this visit is to give the students of Saddleworth School the opportunity to learn from and perform with world class musicians who will inspire and engage them musically.

“We strongly believe having first hand access to musicians of this quality is hugely important to the development of our young musicians.

“The visit is also a tremendous opportunity for the Saddleworth community to come together and share a morning of special music-making in Uppermill, the heart of Saddleworth.

“The Band of the Grenadier Guards were very keen to do parade and perform for the masses again following the incredible reception they received during their last visit in April 2019 before the pandemic.”

Here is the schedule for the visit:

Thursday, October 20:

Band of the Grenadier Guards, plus special guest soloist Matt Lewis, Principal Trombone BBC Concert Orchestra, and Saddleworth School Brass Band will play at Saddleworth School at 7pm with the doors opening at 6pm.

Tickets are free and are available by emailing g.beckwith@saddleworthschool.org.

For those lucky enough to have claimed tickets, please be aware on the evening of the concert you will be required to give your name and show your email confirmation on the door.

Parking will be limited on the night and available on a first come served basis, please arrive in plenty of time, as per your email confirmation.

Friday, October 21

The Band of the Grenadier Guards will parade and march on Uppermill High Street for a public performance at King George V playing fields (Uppermill Park) with the event starting at 11am and expected to finish at 12pm.

Residents are welcome to attend.