Last weekend’s 52nd Mountbatten Festival of Music at the Royal Albert Hall was a once-in-a-lifetime experience for attendees, with three sold-out concerts featuring the Massed Bands of His Majesty’s Royal Marines. A highlight of the event was a dynamic ‘drum-off’ between the world-renowned Corps of Drums and legendary heavy metal drummer Nicko McBrain from Iron Maiden.
McBrain, known for his work with Iron Maiden, performed a special medley titled ‘The Maiden Legacy,’ which included iconic hits like ‘The Trooper,’ ‘Wasted Years,’ and ‘Run To The Hills.’ Using a custom drum kit called ‘Legacy of the Royals,’ McBrain showcased his talent alongside the Royal Marines Massed Band and Corps of Drums.
The historic drum kit, ‘Legacy of the Royals,’ is now up for auction to support RMA – The Royal Marines Charity and the Grand Order of Water Rats charity. The online auction, closing on November 14, 2024, features 11 custom-made drums by the British Drum Company, Paiste cymbals, a 40” gong, and custom Hardcase© protective cases for each item.
In celebration of the 360th anniversary of His Majesty’s Royal Marines, each drum in the kit features Iron Maiden’s Eddie mascot in different Royal Marines uniforms from 1664 to the present, with a backdrop of the Spean Bridge Memorial.
Caroline Casey, Director of Fundraising at RMA – The Royal Marines Charity, remarked on the uniqueness and significance of the ‘Legacy of the Royals’ drum kit. She expressed gratitude for the generosity of Nicko McBrain and the British Drum Company in supporting the auction, which she believes will attract global interest and become a coveted collector’s item. The auction is already generating excitement and is expected to draw attention worldwide.
