Cadet shines bright with gold at national music course

The gold cup was presented to Cadet Colour Sergeant Tal McMaster Christie at the conclusion of a week-long training course gathering 400 of the best young military musicians from across the country.

Another Christ’s Hospital student, Cadet Callum Chapman also attended the course held in Altcar, Merseyside and was awarded the Two Star cadet music award.

Both students are members of the school’s contingent of the Combined Cadet Force (CCF), a national organisation developing leadership, responsibility, self-reliance and resourcefulness in young people through military and adventure training activities.

The seven day course included intensive professional tuition from senior military musicians in musical technique, performance and band drill. The cadets also performed in a variety of concerts and parades.

Tal commented: “It was an honour once again to be invited to play alongside the National Cadet Force Band.

“We really enjoyed playing with some very talented musicians from all over the country. I greatly look forward to performing with them again at future concerts.”

The cadets spent their spare time enjoying a number of adventure training activities, including archery and clay pigeon shooting, as well as improving their military skills on the assault course and dismounted close combat trainer.

Lieutenant Alistair Goddard, CCF Adjutant said: “Tal’s appointment as principal trumpeter and receipt of the gold prize is a significant achievement. He is a talented musician and benefits from constant practice as part of the school’s own marching band.

“The cadet force offers so many opportunities to students of all interests. This term cadets from Christ’s Hospital have participated in activities as diverse as mountain biking, cliff abseiling, kayaking and flying.”

One hundred and twenty students are members of the Christ’s Hospital CCF, which includes Army, Navy and Royal Air Force sections.