15/10/2026
The Royal Marines Oceanaires bring Big Band magic to HMS Raleigh.
On a blustery afternoon at HMS Raleigh, the whistle of the wind across the parade ground was soon eclipsed by a far more captivating
sound drifting from the Concert Hall within the Royal Marines Band Complex.
For a moment, those passing by could have been forgiven for thinking they had stepped through time and onto the famous dance floor
of Blackpool Tower Ballroom. The unmistakable sound of a big band filled the air, transporting listeners to an era of foxtrots, swing music and packed dance halls. The rich brass harmonies, soaring vocals and driving rhythms created an atmosphere steeped in
nostalgia, where "toe-tapping" and "spine-tingling" may be clichés, but they perfectly described the experience.
The source of the music was The Oceanaires, the Royal Marines' renowned big band, who were visiting HMS Raleigh to deliver a development
and training course open to personnel of all ranks wishing to gain experience of performing within a specialised big band environment.
Bringing together instrumentalists and vocalists from across the Royal Marines Band Service and beyond, the course provided participants
with a unique opportunity to develop their musicianship, explore the distinctive style and techniques required for big band performance, and gain valuable experience rehearsing and performing within a large ensemble.
Throughout the course, attendees worked closely with experienced musicians from The Oceanaires, honing their skills while learning
the discipline, precision and musicality that define the big band genre. From intricate brass arrangements and swinging rhythms to powerful vocal performances, participants were immersed in a style of music that continues to captivate audiences generations
after its heyday.
The training not only enhanced musical development but also reinforced the importance of collaboration and teamwork, with musicians coming together from varied backgrounds and levels of experience to produce a cohesive and polished performance.
As the final notes echoed around the concert hall, it was clear that the course had delivered much more than technical instruction.
For participants and listeners alike, it offered a memorable journey through some of the most iconic sounds in musical history, demonstrating the enduring appeal of big band music and the exceptional talent that continues to thrive within the Royal Marines Band Service.