The Guards Division Corps of Drums Association

It was in September 2004 that a Grenadier Guards Drummers Re-Union was held at the Grenadier Guards Club Windsor, where during the proceedings Ex Drummers were invited to take up Instruments for an impromptu General Practice with the visiting Corps of Drums of the Honourable Artillery Company Drummers Association.

The response was a sight to behold, and even after many years, in some cases over forty, since a flute or drum had been played, the performance was most gratifying to see and listen to. As a result, many former Drummers suggested we ought to  set something up on a regular basis which prompted Brian Lane, Peter Taylor and Stuart Sutton to pursue the idea. However, it was decided that to ensure a reasonable number of regular players we should include all Ex Drummers of the five Regiments of Foot Guards and members of the HAC Drummers Association. Within eight weeks, a first Practice Session was organized, which was attended by some 35 Drummers, this being continued on a four to six week cycle ever since.

Major General S.J.L. Roberts. I.G Commanding the Household Division, approved the Guards Division Corps of Drums Association name, and we held our Inaugural General Meeting on Sunday 6th November 2005. We were delighted that Major Denis Burton ARCM psm Director of Music of The Grenadier Guards agreed to become our first President, Major (Rtd) Peter Horsfall (Coldstream Guards), all serving Drum Majors of the five Foot Guards Regiments, and Martyn Pearson the HACDA Chairman accepted positions of Vice Presidents. The elected officers were, Chairman, Major (Rtd) Brian Lane (Grenadier Guards/Blues and Royals), Hon Secretary, Peter Taylor (Grenadier Guards), and Hon Treasurer, Stuart Sutton (Coldstream Guards), The current membership stands at sixty, although due to age and other reasons, not all are playing members, however they are very valuable for encouragement and logistical help.

We would be most happy to hear from any interested Ex Guards Division Drummers, and like minded Drummers of other Regiments, to come along and help keep this unique type of music alive. For further information, please contact Mr. Peter Taylor on 0118979337

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