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British RoyalsThe Sussexes

Prince Harry to undertake his first engagement as Captain General of the Royal Marines

Prince Harry will undertake his first engagement as Captain General of the Royal Marines since assuming the post from the retiring Prince Philip in December when he attends the Mountbatten Festival of Music on Saturday evening.

Prince Philip held the Captain General post for 63 years until he relinquished the role in December. Prior to Prince Philip, the post had been held by King George VI.

The Mountbatten Festival of Music “sees the Royal Marines showcase their incredible musicianship and pageantry and features a wide range of musical styles, including music from the big screen and superb solo items, as well as the traditional marches and overtures that have proved such a hit with audiences over the years,” according to its official website.

All music is performed by Massed Bands of Her Majesty’s Royal Marines.

Proceeds from the Festival, which runs all weekend, go to the Royal Marines Charity and CLIC Sargent.

At the time of Prince Harry’s appointment as Captain General, The Queen said that she “has been pleased to give her formal approval to the appointment…” Prince Harry and his grandfather were then photographed wearing the Royal Marines’ regimental ties.

When Prince Philip retired last August, his final engagement was to receive a salute from the Royal Marines at Buckingham Palace.

Prince Philip and Prince Harry met with the out-going Commandant General Royal Marines Major General Rob Magowan and incoming Commandant General Major General Charles Strickland at Buckingham Palace when Prince Harry took over the post.

Major General Magowan published a message on the Royal Marines’ website at the time saying, “In an ever-changing world His Royal Highness [The Duke of Edinburgh] has remained a reassuring constant. The Duke’s interest, support, encouragement, inspiration and ready humour will be sorely missed.”

Talking of Prince Harry, he said: “I look forward to His Royal Highness developing a deep and enduring relationship with the Royal Marines and know that the Corps Family will provide the warmest of welcomes.”

The Mountbatten Festival of Music will be live-streamed on YouTube and took place at the Royal Albert Hall in London.

About author

Jess Ilse is the Assistant Editor at Royal Central. She specialises in the British, Danish, Norwegian and Swedish Royal Families and has been following royalty since Queen Elizabeth II’s Golden Jubilee. Jess has provided commentary for media outlets in Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia. Jess works in communications and her debut novel THE MAJESTIC SISTERS will publish in Fall 2024.