Sunday October 19th, 2008

Royal Concert Hall, Glasgow

PRIVATE PIKE DRAFTED IN FOR RAF CONCERT TOUR

DAD'S ARMY star Ian Lavender has joined up for real . . . as compere at the Royal Air Force bands' concert at Glasgow's prestigious Royal Concert Hall on Sunday October 19. This is the first tour to feature the actor, best known for his role as Private Pike in the BBC comedy series, as compere. Ian says:

"I was delighted to be asked to work with the Bands of the Royal Air Force, and I'm looking forward to taking part in a very special concert, celebrating the 90th anniversary of the Royal Air Force."

The Glasgow event is the tour's only engagement north of the border, so it's fitting that it features two Scottish performers, internationally-renowned mezzo soprano Thora Ker, from the Scottish Borders, and percussionist Corporal Chris I'Anson, who studied at the Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama.

The concert features the Band of the Royal Air Force College and the Band of the Royal Air Force Regiment, both of which are based at RAF Cranwell. They're augmented by the big-band sound of Swing Wing plus the Salon Orchestra, a quintet of musicians who provide a stringed element to the performance. And the special anniversary programme promises a mix of light classics, jazz, big band and music from the shows to appeal to all ages.

The musical journey, reflecting the Service's past, present and future, includes a triumphant finale, reminiscent of the Last Night of the Proms. Each performance starts at 7.30pm and tickets are available from the Royal Concert Hall (tel: 0141 353 8000) priced at £13.50, £16.50 and £19.50.

Wing Commander Stuart Stirling will be conducting the programme, and musical highlights will include the swing classic String of Pearls; John Addison's theme from the film A Bridge Too Far; the coronation march, Crown Imperial, by Sir William Walton; and Hubert Parry's hymn Jerusalem, one of the traditional elements of the Last Night.

For full concert tour details, visit www.airtattoo.com/events/RAFInConcert/