Michael Rice RMBX 2972 Clarinet Michael Rice Michael Rice (clarinet, and the band’s Hon Treasurer) writes: ‘Join the Navy and See the World!’ said the poster at the 1951 Boys’ Own Exhibition at Earls Court. As my Uncle had done just that, taking in two World Wars on the way, I thought I would apply. “Too young. Try the next table?” was the response. I was just 14. The next table offered the same travel package, with music as an added extra! It was the Royal Marines Band Service. After a little cajoling, my parents agreed, and there I was in Deal wondering what had hit me! In 1955 the travel commenced and I was sent, aged 17, to HMS Phoenicia, in Malta to join the C in C’s Band, and enjoy the hospitality of his flagship, HMS Surprise. We were there for 18 months. In 1959 I was married, and a draft to HMS Blake in Plymouth soon followed, then back to the Med with a trip to the West Indies, for good measure. Back in UK in 1962 I was sent to Eastney for what I told my wife was a shore-based posting. However, this illusion was soon dispelled as the Royal Yacht Britannia set sail for New Zealand just after Christmas 1963. We got as far as Fiji and the seasickness had at last abated, then we were turned around and came back, to take the Queen Mother for convalescence around the West Indies. I was now 26 years old and a band sergeant, and concerned about the future; with the inevitability of more sea time to come, I decided to buy myself out in 1964. I applied to all four Clearing Banks, and Lloyds took me on as a late entrant. To catch up,I did the required exams, and with the £50 gratuity, bought a reconditioned Imperial clarinet. Over the next 30 years I worked in six different branches and only went to sea on the Isle of Wight ferry, for a holiday! I finished up as a manager of a local branch and retired early in 1994. I play the clarinet (I now have five) in the local orchestra which I joined in 1985; and I joined the RMA Concert Band in 2006. I now say:“Thank you for the music....”. Clarinet Class 1953, RMSM Deal. Michael is front row 2nd left