HOW TO GUIDE #29 RAF AIR CADETS MUSIC
MUSIC IN THE RAF AIR CADETS
Do you play a musical instrument or sing in a choir? Record how you achieved this badge in your Blue
If you do, read on to find out how to get recognised Badge Logbook, where the criteria can also be found.
and progress with music within the RAF Air Cadets.
After achieving your introductory blue badge. You BRONZE & SILVER BADGES
can enter competitions, represent your Unit, Wing,
Region or CCF Area, attend a national music camp If you wish to join an RAF Air Cadets band, then speak
and take part in public performances. to your unit staff, who may put you in touch with your
Wing or Area Music Officer.
TYPES OF BADGES Cadets who achieve bronze and silver badges are
normally a member of a Wing or Regional/Area band.
You can qualify for a bronze or silver badge in one of
three ways. The level of badge will depend on the level
of competition and/or examination grade:
Pass a recognised music board exam at grade 5
(bronze) or grade 8 (silver).
If you play a musical instrument or sing in a choir you Perform in a band in a representative capacity at
may be awarded a musician badge. There are four types Wing (bronze) or Regional/Area (silver) level.
of badge available at blue, bronze, silver and gold:
Perform regularly in a band or ensemble judged to
Trumpeter (crossed trumpets) be at bronze or silver level.
Drummer (drums)
Instrumentalist (lyre) GOLD BADGE
Piper (bagpipes) Gold badges are awarded for national representation.
For each badge you must meet certain criteria as You could gain a gold badge if you have attended an
described below. Ask a member of your unit staff for a RAF Air Cadets national music camp/workshop and
full list of eligible instruments (ACTO 123). played with the relevant national ensemble at a
recognised public performance.
BLUE BADGES Current national music bands and ensembles include:
Blue badges are awarded on your musical ability. You Concert Band
can qualify for a blue badge in one of three ways:
Marching Band
Pass a recognised music board exam at grade 3.
Choir
Provide an expert witness testimony (for example a
Strings Ensemble
school music teacher) which states your instrument
can be played to grade 3 standard. Pipes and Drums
Assessment by a competent person to state that The gold piper and gold drum badges can also be
musical ability has been demonstrated. awarded for cadets who have successfully completed
the ACF Annual Pipes and Drums Concentration.
If you feel you are eligible for this badge, speak to your
unit staff, who may put you in touch with your Wing or
Area Music Officer.
HQ RAFAC Training Team Version 2
