13 March 2024
Graham Jones
Synopsis
Great Britain provides some of the biggest ceremonial events in the world and, arguably, has a reputation of being the best in the world when it comes to ceremonial parades and pageantry – but why is that so? How do the military prepare for major events such as State Opening of Parliament, the National Day of Remembrance, State Visits, Royal Weddings, or even a State Funeral? Drawing on personal experience, Graham follows the golden thread of history, heritage and tradition that still has such an impact on today’s ceremonial events.
CV
Dr Graham Jones MBE is a highly respected military music historian, having served as a musician in the British Army for forty years. He started his military career in the Royal Artillery Band, progressing until, in 2001, he achieved his lifelong ambition to be appointed Director of Music of the Coldstream Guards, a position unequalled in military music. His subsequent promotion to Lieutenant Colonel and appointment to the prestigious role of Senior Director of Music, Household Division, handed him the daunting responsibility for the delivery of all State Ceremonial music. Now retired from his musical career in the Army, Graham remains as busy as ever: conducting, organising music events around the world, and lecturing.