April 7, 2025
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The 25th Anniversary Rorke’s Drift Concert took place on 22 February, marking a spectacular celebration of cadet musical talent, 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 to Wales from 15 counties, battalions, and contingents to take part. These included musicians from The Black Watch Battalion 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-19 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.
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.
Scottish cadets on stage at the 25th Anniversary Rorke’s Drift Concert.
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.
This year’s concert felt especially poignant, marking the final Rorke’s Drift Concert in its current form.
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.
