The art of state ceremonial music | National Library of Australia (NLA)

The art of state ceremonial music

ArtsNational Canberra and Graham Jones present a lecture exploring how the military plans and delivers the United Kingdom’s greatest ceremonial events, from state visits to national commemorations.

The United Kingdom stages some of the biggest and most successful ceremonial events in the world. But how does the military prepare for occasions such as the State Opening of Parliament, state visits, national days of Remembrance, royal weddings and state funerals? Graham offers an inside look into the planning, precision and challenges behind these major state ceremonies.

Light refreshments are available in the foyer after the presentation.

A marching military band and parade with many instruments and United Kingdom flags

Trooping the Colour, The Mall, London. Image from the lecturer.

Trooping the Colour, The Mall, London. Image from the lecturer.

About Graham Jones

Graham Jones began his career as a musician in the British Army. After 40 years, he retired as the Senior Director of Music, Household Division and Director of Music, Coldstream Guards. He has recorded over forty albums and commissioned over thirty new works for wind bands. 

Graham also pioneered a music education program for military musicians at the University of Salford. He enjoys his second career as a conductor, lecturer and educator.

This event is presented in partnership with ArtsNational Canberra.

 

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Event details
20 Oct 2026
6:00pm – 7:45pm
$40
Foyer, Theatre
Accessibility
Assistance animals icon Assistance animals icon Assistance animals welcome
Assistive learning icon Assistive learning icon Hearing induction loop
Wheelchair icon Wheelchair icon Wheelchair accessible

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