Richard Kerr
Born in Portadown in 1984, Richard began learning cornet and piano at age 7 and joined St Mark’s Band in 1992, where his father and family also played. In 2001 he enlisted in the British Army, training at the Royal Military School of Music, Kneller Hall.
His career took him across the world with The Royal Irish Regiment Band, the REME Band, and later the Band of The Royal Regiment of Scotland, performing in countries including France, Bosnia, Iraq, India, Canada, Switzerland, Russia, Hong Kong, Australia and New Zealand.
A career highlight was serving as Drum Major during Operation UNICORN and Operation LONDON BRIDGE, where he led ceremonial rehearsals and processions for the late Queen Elizabeth II’s state funeral, both in Edinburgh and Windsor.
After 22 years of service, Richard returned home to Northern Ireland in 2024. He now plays with Murley Silver Band, Fivemiletown, as Principal Cornet.
Aaron Watson
Aaron joined St Mark’s Silver Band at the age of 11 when his dad brought him along to meet Freddie Woods. After his very first cornet lesson, he was hooked—and for the next seven years, every Thursday night was band night. By the age of 17 he had risen to Principal Cornet before leaving to pursue a career as a musician in the British Army.
His service took him around the world, performing in Royal Palaces, major stadiums, and at prestigious venues such as the Royal Albert Hall. He even had the honour of playing at Buckingham Palace as part of his military career.
Now back home, Aaron has rejoined St Mark’s Silver Band. He is passionate about giving back to the band that first nurtured his talent, not only through performance but also by tutoring and helping inspire the next generation of players.
