The Band of the Mercian Regiment

01/09/2026

in 2007, the Mercian Regiment was formed at Tamworth Castle. This was the result of the amalgamation of the Cheshire Regiment, the Worcestershire and Sherwood Foresters Regiment, and the Staffordshire Regiment. Present was the Regiment's then Colonel in Chief, HRH The Prince of Wales; now HM King Charles III.

In the years since our formation, the Mercian Regiment has gone on to be known as one of the most operationally deployed Regiments in the Infantry, while also being coined 'The Heart of England's Infantry'. Although we have achieved many great things as the Mercian Regiment, we must not forget our 330+ years of history that have shaped our existence.

To all our Mercian family out there, we thank you for your support. And to all of our soldiers, we thank you for protecting our country so our families can stay safe.

💪

22/08/2026

Sunshine. Pride. Belonging.

This afternoon, Quarry Park in Shrewsbury came alive as the Band of the Mercian Regiment filled the air with music, energy and community spirit. From stirring marches to film favourites, the mastery of Sousa to the lilting Amazing Grace, every note reminded us of the power music has to bring people together.

It was a privilege to share the Bandstand with friends from other bands and to celebrate what happens when people come together with purpose, passion and commitment. It was the perfect day to be in the park, and the reaction from the crowds was fantastic!

If today inspired you — if you love music, want to be part of something bigger, or are looking for a place to belong — we’d love to hear from you. We’re recruiting NOW. For more information, contact C/Sgt Jason Pickin: [email protected]

22/08/2026

See you at 2pm!

Today in The Quarry!

This afternoon from 2pm, we’re delighted to welcome the fantastic Band of the Mercian Regiment to the Quarry Bandstand! 🇬🇧

Come along and enjoy an afternoon of live military music in one of Shrewsbury’s most beautiful outdoor spaces. 🎶🌳

It’s free to attend, so bring a picnic, grab a chair and enjoy the music!

📍 Quarry Bandstand
⏰ Today, 2pm–4pm

Part of our Summer of Music programme.

https://www.shrewsburytowncouncil.gov.uk/latest-events/

20/08/2026

Musicians are a multi talented bunch. Some of the pieces that we are performing at our upcoming concert on Shrewsbury Bandstand, require more percussion parts than there are hands in the percussion section. This means players within the band have an opportunity to join in some of the more raucous percussion features. In today's final rehearsals Musician Kirk in particular has been enjoying himself!

On Saturday can you spot who else is moonlighting with the percussion team?

2pm Saturday, Shrewsbury Bandstand, The Quarry. See you there!

Are you a percussionist and interested in joining us in our musical adventures? Get in touch now for more information by contacting C/Sgt Jason Pickin at [email protected].

19/08/2026

This Saturday – Free Concert!

Quarry Park Band Stand, Shrewsbury

The Band of the Mercian Regiment will be performing on the Quarry Park Band Stand on 22nd August, starting at 2pm, as part of the Summer of Music 2026.

Why not pack a picnic, get an ice cream and come for a FREE afternoon’s entertainment on a traditional English band stand?

18/08/2026

Musical Professional Development

Today it was the turn of the Bandmaster, with recordings being done of conducting and rehearsal techniques to analyse and use in his own professional development. This provided a rare opportunity for the Band to hear and see themselves perform from the audience’s point of view.

The music for our free concert later this week is sounding good, with lots to sing along to and something to suit all musical tastes: from Benny Goodman, with classy swinging solos, to the Welsh classic All Through the Night. Even the weather is looking good for a day out with music and ice cream! See you on Saturday, at the bandstand in The Quarry, Shrewsbury!

17/08/2026

Mercians on Camp Day 8

Today’s fact of the day, courtesy of Musician Kirk, is that Ramsbottom’s Famous Chocolate and Cheese Festival has included world record attempts at Ferrero Rocher eating! A challenge for the next band social maybe?

Today’s schedule included full band sight reading and choosing potential new repertoire from an enticing selection featuring all ages and genres of music, giving the musicians plenty to get their fingers around. This was followed by small group work, with a chance for the saxophone group and the brass group to spend time on their set lists. Then it was time put aside for mentoring sessions for those musicians working for professional musical qualifications, aural training for upcoming assessments and time to complete online professional education packages. Everyone is taking full advantage of the space, time and support available.

Oh and it’s raining!

16/08/2026

Mercians on Camp Day 7 - Collaboration

Holcombe Moor has been buzzing with energy well into the evening as our Mercians musicians made full use of the time and space to practise, create and collaborate. From scales and aural training for CEQ assessments, to programme planning and conversations about future careers, the camp has been alive with purposeful activity.

Musicians have been trying out new solos for upcoming events — and when the perfect solo doesn’t exist, why not write one? Our double‑reed team has been hard at work crafting an exciting Cor Anglais solo to debut later in the week. Having the freedom to explore music software, develop arranging skills and collaborate with others is one of the great benefits of being away together as a band.

With time, teamwork and encouragement to grow new skills, who knows where your musical journey could lead.

15/08/2026

Mercians on Camp Day 6 – Being Social!

One of the great things about being away on camp is the opportunity to socialise with other members of the band. After all, a band that socialises together plays well together. Spending time together outside of music is incredibly important and, with busy lives, work commitments, and family responsibilities, it is not always easy to do throughout the year. A camp away from home gives us the chance to spend our evenings together, strengthening friendships and building team spirit.

So far, the band has enjoyed a wide range of activities, including games, a BBQ, walks in the local area, visits to the Country Park, sampling treats from the local ice cream shop, bowling, and even testing our skills at Flight Club darts. Things can get a little competitive at times, but that only adds to the fun!

If you would like to find out more about what we get up to, why not get in touch? We are recruiting now. For more information, please contact C/Sgt Jason Pickin at [email protected].

14/08/2026

Find out just some of the things that our musicians get up to on their annual training exercise. If you’d like to find out more about how you can involved, why not get in touch? You never know, we might be just what you’re looking for!

Send a message to learn more