Rob H.

I have a passion for music and now get paid to play music

I have been a percussionist since a young age and joined the British Army as a musician when I completed my A levels. After completing Basic Training and Initial Trade Training at the Royal Military School of Music, I was assigned to the Band of the Scots Guards in London. I spent 13 years with the band and had the privilege of performing at all state ceremonial occasions and travelled the world.

I am a professional musician.

As a percussionist in the British Army, I have visited Bermuda, United States of America, Japan and performed at high profile events included the London Olympics Closing Ceremony in 2012. The main day to day Duties are performing at the Changing of the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace.

The opportunity to perform to 1000s on a daily basis.

On a daily basis, 1000s travel to London to watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace. Being able to perform regularly to a large audience gives any musician a feeling of achievement. I also like that Army musicians have the opportunity to travel. I have performed in Bermuda, Japan, USA and Canada, to name a few. I have also performed live on stage with Robbie Williams, Rod Stewart and Alicia Dixon.

Work hard and strive for a world class standard

As a musician, you can always develop. It doesn’t matter if you are a beginner or a seasoned professional, you can always grow as a player and a performer.

I performed many times at the Queen’s Birthday Parade.

The Queen’s Birthday Parade is probably the largest ‘gig’ of the year for Army Musicians. Being able to perform many times in front of HM The Queen has been a career highlight.