Hello, I play clarinet at Northwood. I took up music as a hobby in recent years having previously had a desire to learn either the clarinet or the bagpipes, but never having found the time. In November 2001 I decided “better late than never” and started to learn the clarinet (my husband wasn’t keen on the bagpipes!). I joined the Northwood band just over 2 years later in March ’04 and played all of 6 notes at the first rehearsal. However, the thrill of the music had me hooked and I’ve hardly missed a rehearsal since. Playing in the band has taught me a lot and been great fun (these days I only miss the odd notes)!

Four years ago I never would have believed that I’d be on board a RN ship, sipping drinks, chatting to the CO after playing for 2 hours for a cocktail party for selected guests!A very memorable evening: sunshine; gentle rocking of the deck; Tower Bridge in the background; all my favourite pieces of music; and best of all, played in the company of a very friendly group of people. Roll on the next engagement!