A Darlington-based Army Reserve band is striking a chord with local musicians, offering unique opportunities to hone their talents while serving the community. The Royal Signals (Northern) Band, part of 37 Signal Regiment, is welcoming new members following a highly successful recruitment initiative.
Play Day Success Leads to New Recruits
The band's innovative Play Day in October proved to be a major draw, attracting fifty musicians from the region. The event allowed players to experience rehearsing and performing alongside serving military musicians without any initial obligation. This hands-on approach has already borne fruit, with several attendees now in the process of formally joining the ranks.
Among those signing up is Hazel Clifton, a 39-year-old project management director and mother. Her journey to the band began when she saw them perform at Darlington's Proms in the Park in 2023. "It was such a wonderful day; the band members are so incredibly friendly and welcoming," she said. "I thoroughly enjoyed playing with such a talented bunch of musicians."
A Band of Diverse Backgrounds
The Royal Signals (Northern) Band is a true cross-section of the community, uniting 32 members from all walks of life. Its ranks include teachers, students, civil servants, doctors, and retail workers. As reservists, these musicians gain valuable training, performance experience, and travel opportunities, all while supporting military families and local community events.
The band recently performed its annual Christmas concert, featuring a mix of traditional and contemporary music for an audience of military families and local dignitaries. They also performed at Catterick Garrison Memorial Church alongside the Catterick Military WAGS choir this month.
A Musical Legacy and Future Opportunities
The Christmas concert was a poignant moment for Captain Tom Milford, who is retiring as Director of Music after leading the band since 2003. He reflected on the dual benefits of being a reservist. “Having a full-time and part time occupation, doing something that you really enjoy is an opportunity that not everyone will experience," he said. He highlighted music's unique power to forge lasting connections and friendships.
With Captain Milford's departure, the search for a new Musical Director is now underway, with applications closing at the end of January. The band continues to look forward, scheduling its next Play Day for March 2026.
The band actively recruits woodwind, brass, and percussion players of all backgrounds and experience levels. Musicians interested in joining can find more information on the band's Facebook page at facebook.com/royalsignals.northernband or by emailing 37SIG-50-Band-Recruiting@mod.gov.uk.
