Scandinavian sounds of summer return to Scarborough

Annually heralding the early summer season since the late 1960’s, this year included the combined mass ranks of both junior and senior bands (totalling some 70 musicians), of Smågardistene - Stabekk Skoles Musikkorps from Stabekk, near Oslo.

The band which has close ties to the His Majesty’s The Kings Guard in Norway and wear the Guard’s distinctive hats, gave an impressive extended display of their creative formations and drills.

Group leader Ellen Kosberg stated: “We had a lovely day playing with the other Norwegian bands on the seafront.

“Scarborough is a charming town, and we were delighted by the warm welcome and enthusiastic support we received as we marched through the streets.”

With particularly striking red, black and white uniforms, Haukerød Skolekorps from Sandefjord, south of Oslo, who demonstrated their precision marching skills and accomplished musicianship in Westborough, were also amongst the visiting bands.

Susanne Johansen Forsstrom, one of the Haukerød leaders said: “We were delighted to visit Scarborough and grateful for the warm welcome we received.

“It was a wonderful opportunity for our young musicians to experience your beautiful town, show our best sides at marching and playing, meet new people and share the joy of music across cultures.

“Thank you, Scarborough, for your kindness and hospitality!”.

A number of the bands also performed competitively at a special evening hosted at The Grand Hotel and additionally played to both visitors and residents with an outdoor concert staged at Scarborough Spa’s Sun Court.

Ranging in age from seven to 18, the band members accompanied by teachers and parents, took part in an itinerary of specialised activities which also included visits to both York and Flamingo Land.

The yearly music festival is organised by educational organisation Club England which has co-ordinated programmes for Scandinavian visitors since 1968 and will be marking its 60th anniversary in 2028.