Pupils fine-tune their skills as Royal Marines band visits Shropshire school

But that's exactly what pupils from Adam's Grammar School pupils did when they were visited by a Band of the Royal Marines.

They are one of five Royal Marine Bands based around the United Kingdom.

More than 40 musicians took part in the day-long visit which included workshops and rehearsals with the pupils.

Band members and pupils from the Newport school then demonstrated their skills to an enthusiastic audience of pupils, staff and parents in afternoon and evening concerts.

For one visitor, the day was particularly memorable as he's a former pupil at Adams'.

Chris Beal left in 2010 and now plays concerts all over the world with the Royal Marines Band.

He said: "I was very excited to be returning to Adams' with the Band as I had a great time as a pupil. My experience with the school's CCF Marching Band helped to develop my enthusiasm for music and gave me a helping hand in achieving my ambition to join the Royal Marines. I'd heard there had been all sorts of changes at Adams' recently including a new music block and performance space so it's been great seeing it all as well as catching up with some of my old teachers."

Royal Marines Bandmaster Johnny Morrish added: "We've enjoyed a fantastic day at Adams', the pupils have been incredibly enthusiastic and we've been impressed by the large number who've taken part in our workshops and rehearsals, and by their talent and focus. I took part in an event like this when I was at school and it helped spark my enthusiasm for music and the military, so if we can do the same for any of these pupils then we'll have done a great job."

Information about careers opportunities and work experience weeks offered by the Royal Marines Band Service is available on their website www.royalnavy.mod.uk/rmbs or by calling 0345 600 3777.