After a two-year hiatus, the iconic event returned for its 139th year on Wednesday 27 July, and the Springwood Concert Band had an integral part to play, entertaining visitors to the show with a range of classic tunes.
“The Springwood Concert Band were invited to perform on the main bandstand at the show as just one of two musical groups, the other being the Essex Police Band from Chelmsford. As they have only two bands in total, this is a huge honour.” explained Robin Norman, Director of Music at Springwood High, part of the West Norfolk Academy Trust.
“It was also a great honour to be playing while the Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall were looking round the show.
“There is a long tradition of the band performing at the show, but, after a two-year break due to covid, it was exciting to be asked to return once again.”
The band comprised 24 musicians playing woodwind, brass and percussion instruments, and included guest appearances from some former band members.
He continued: “All the instrumentalists are from Springwood, with an age range of 12 to 18. However there is a tradition that the Sandringham performance also acts as a mini reunion, with past members coming back to play. This year we had five that returned, going back as far as 1985.”

The band gave two one-hour performances, playing a variety of popular pieces for the enjoyment of some 20,000 visitors who flocked to the show.
“For this type of event, it is always traditional to play a selection of light pieces that the audience can sit back, relax, and just enjoy,” continued Mr Norman. “This year was no exception, with a selection that ranged from ‘Eye of the Tiger’ through hits by the Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin, to music by Stevie Wonder – but with James Bond themes and eighties rock thrown in for good measure!”
Mr Norman added: “To perform for royalty is, without doubt, something many of the young people will not forget. They were thrilled and excited to get the chance to see the royal family in person, and, as one band member commented to me: 'it’s not every day you get the chance to perform in the garden of a royal household'.