The 25th Anniversary Rorke's Drift Concert
A Night of Music, Memories, and Milestones
The 25th Anniversary Rorke’s Drift Concert took place this past weekend, marking a spectacular celebration of cadet musical talent and military heritage and the end of an unforgettable era. Held at Theatr Brycheiniog in Brecon, the event brought together cadets and adult volunteers from across the Army Cadet Force (ACF), with participants travelling from 15 counties, battalions, and contingents to take part. These were musicians from Gwent & Powys ACF, Derbyshire ACF, Dorset ACF, Durham ACF, Hampshire & Isle of Wight ACF, Hereford & Worcester ACF, King Edwards’s School Bath CCF, Lincolnshire ACF, 1st Northern Ireland Bn ACF, Oxfordshire ACF, Black Watch Battalion ACF, and Somerset ACF.
Originally founded in 1997 by Captain Adrian Beckett MBE and his team from the Army Tasking Authority, the Rorke’s Drift Concert has grown in stature. Despite a short hiatus during the Covid pandemic, the concert has remained a cherished tradition, showcasing the dedication and skill of young cadets. This year, 119 performers took to the stage, delivering a captivating display of music and military pageantry.
More Than Just a Concert
What sets the Rorke’s Drift Concert apart isn’t just the impressive music — it’s the sense of family and camaraderie that has developed over the years. As SMI Kerrie Green, County Bandmaster, beautifully put it:
“There’s something about the Rorke’s Drift Concert that is completely unique. It’s bringing together a family with a love of music that unites them in a common cause — to share that with others. The weekend is a meeting of friends, old and new, and the thousands who have taken part over the years have strong memories of that and what it means. That is why it has lasted so long — it’s not just a concert; it’s about being a part of the Rorke’s Drift family.”
The concert is a reunion of familiar faces and a vital opportunity for musical growth. Advanced players are given the chance to push their skills to new heights, working alongside fellow musicians of a similar standard and receiving mentoring from Regular and Reservist bandmasters.
When asked about what learning music through the ACF means to them, cadets said:
“The Army Cadets have already changed my life. And now, joining the Gwent & Powys Corps of Drums band, I have changed for good. Music in the ACF has made me want to do music as a future career. I’m extremely thankful to the ACF for how much this has helped me.” – Cdt Samual Clements from Gwent & Powys ACF
“To me, music is an art form that helps me express myself in ways no other art can. It’s an escape from reality and an escape into a new one. The ACF has helped me grow both my confidence and my abilities. I’ve met so many types of people and will forever hold dearly.” – Aisha Lamaj from Gwent & Powys ACF
“It has encouraged me to push myself both musically and emotionally. It’s been very rewarding and inspiring.” – SI Claire Wood from Lincolnshire ACF
“Music within the Army Cadets has been one of the greatest opportunities of my life. I’ve enjoyed every second spent with the cadets and adults here, and I feel it’s made me into the best version of myself.” – Phoenix Charles from Gwent & Powys ACF
“Music has helped me discover new pathways and a career, helped me to find out what I want to do with my life, create social groups and learn my favourite instrument ever.” – Cdt LCpl Zack Kennedy from Hampshire & Isle of Wight ACF
A Fitting Farewell — and a New Beginning
This year’s concert felt especially poignant, marking the final Rorke’s Drift Concert in its current form. Reflecting on this milestone, SMI Green added:
“This concert is the end of an era. It’s been a journey like no other, and we are incredibly grateful to all of those who have supported us throughout the years. From the very start, right through to the fifteen counties, battalions and contingents who took part in the final concert, it’s been an absolute blast. Now it’s time for new beginnings — a new era of concerts with Gwent & Powys. As for next year, you will have to wait and see — we’re keeping that under our bearskins for now!”
As the final note rang out and the audience rose to their feet in heartfelt applause, it was clear that while this chapter of the Rorke’s Drift Concert may be closing, its legacy will live on. The friendships formed, the skills sharpened, and the memories made will continue to inspire future generations of cadet musicians.