First female Bandmaster in the Household Division appointed 15.09.11
41The Household Cavalry has appointed its first female bandmaster.
Warrant Officer First Class Esther Freeborn has broken new ground for women in the army, and will lead the mounted band of the Life Guards on ceremonial occasions.
She will become Bandmaster of The Life Guards, the senior regiment in the British Army, at the home of the Household Cavalry at Hyde Park Barracks, Knightsbridge.
For the last 6 months, WO1 Freeborn has undergone the Household Cavalry Mounted Duty Course, where she was intensely trained in a range of skills, including stable management, as well as learning the full spectrum of riding and looking after their personal uniform and horses' furniture.
This occasion is marked with a sparkling parade in full ceremonial uniform for all trainees who have come to the end of their training.