The Duchess of Edinburgh's String Orchestra

12/06/2026

On behalf of everyone across the Bands of the Household Division, we offer our sincere congratulations and best wishes to Lieutenant Colonel Stewart Halliday as he concludes an exceptional career spanning more than 40 years in British Army Music.

From his beginnings at the Army Junior School of Music to serving as Commanding Officer of the Bands of the Household Division, his dedication, leadership and commitment to excellence have left a lasting impact on generations of military musicians.

Throughout his career, he has inspired countless musicians through his professionalism, musicianship and unwavering support for those under his command. His influence will continue to be felt across the Household Division and the wider British Army Music family for many years to come.

As he takes his final salute at Trooping the Colour as Commanding Officer, we thank him for his outstanding service and wish him every success, happiness and fulfilment in the next chapter of his life.

Thank you, Sir, for your leadership, friendship and steadfast support of military music.

🎶🇬🇧🎺

04/06/2026

The Duchess of Edinburgh’s String Orchestra had a busy day at Windsor Castle on Tuesday, with lots of celebrities attending the investiture ceremony in the morning!

A big thank you to Adam Dennis for providing us with some great arrangements for the occasion - you can hear us playing by following the link below ⬇️ 🎻

https://www.itv.com/news/london/2026-06-02/luther-star-sir-idris-elba-knighted-by-the-king

02/06/2026

Another great day in the office for DESO!🎻

It was a pleasure to provide music during the Investiture ceremony at Windsor Castle today.🎵

Congratulations to all of the recipients!🎖️

The Duchess of Edinburgh's String Orchestra is actively recruiting string players. If you would like to find out more, click the link below, leave a comment, or message us direct to see what The Royal Corps of Army Music has to offer you !
✅ linktr.ee/britisharmymusic

25/05/2026

Only a few days to go!

Tomorrow, we begin working together Trinity Laban to bring you some fabulous music from some of the greatest British composers, all within the beautiful setting of St Alfege Church.

We hope you join us for what is sure to be a fantastic performance!

Throughout next week, the orchestra will be rehearsing side by side with Trinity Laban's Sinfonia Strings for a lunchtime concert at St Alfege's Church in Greenwich.
Please join us in supporting these fantastic musicians - We'd love to see you there!

24/05/2026

19/05/2026

1 week to go! 🎻✨

The Duchess of Edinburgh's String Orchestra presents a special lunchtime performance featuring the Cello Quartet & Ensembles.

Join us in the beautiful setting of The Royal Military Chapel - The Guards' Chapel for an afternoon of outstanding live music performed by Army musicians.

📍 The Royal Military Chapel (The Guards’ Chapel)
📅 Tuesday 26th May 2026
⏰ 1:10pm
📌 Wellington Barracks, Birdcage Walk, London SW1E 6HQ

We look forward to welcoming you to this special recital.

🎶

18/05/2026

Throughout next week, the orchestra will be rehearsing side by side with Trinity Laban's Sinfonia Strings for a lunchtime concert at St Alfege's Church in Greenwich.
Please join us in supporting these fantastic musicians - We'd love to see you there!

08/05/2026

Check mate! ♟️

Recently, Musn Edwin Podolski took part in the Armed Forces Chess Championship 2026.

He placed 8th overall out of over 90 participants and 1st in the Army, securing him a place, for the third year in a row, in the 36th NATO Chess Championship. This will take place in Jurmala, Latvia this October.

Congratulations Edwin! ♟️

07/05/2026

Join members of the Duchess of Edinburgh’s String Orchestra on Tuesday the 26th May for a lunchtime concert filled with beautiful chamber music at The Royal Military Chapel - The Guards' Chapel.
Everyone is welcome - no tickets required!

30/04/2026

This week the orchestra had a lot to celebrate with several awards!🏆

The Commanding Officer Household Division Bands, Lieutenant Colonel Halliday, conducted a visit featuring an inspection, whilst also presenting a number of awards to members of the orchestra.

LCpl Yasmin Chu achieved her RCAM Sports Colours for Football.

LCpl Grace Moon was awarded The Duchess of Edinburgh’s String Orchestra’s Musician of the Year. This is presented to the musician who has made an outstanding musical contribution to the orchestra, chosen by the Director of Music, Band Sergeant Major and Bandmaster.

Sgt Kate Sandford was awarded The Duchess of Edinburgh’s String Orchestra’s Soldier’s Choice Award. This is voted for by all members of the orchestra for outstanding contribution all round.

Musn Edwin Podolski was presented with an award from the Commanding Officer recognising his recent success at the Armed Forces Chess Championship 2026 where he placed first in the Army.

Last but not least, Musn Evie Phillips was awarded a Colonel’s Coin for outstanding achievement all round and contribution to raising the profile of Household Division Bands.

Congratulations to all for recognition of their outstanding achievements!👏