What is the Military Tattoo in Edinburgh?
A Tradition of Excellence since 1950
The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, also known as the Edinburgh Tattoo, is an annual live music event held in the city of Edinburgh, Scotland. First held in 1950, the Military Tattoo is a celebration of military music, dance, and spectacle, showcasing the best of British and international military talents. One of the most popular outdoor events in the world, the Military Tattoo attracts an audience of over 200,000 spectators each year.
History and Traditions
The Military Tattoo was conceived by Major-General Sir Noel Mason-Mackenzie, a Scottish aristocrat and military officer. In the aftermath of World War II, Mason-Mackenzie wanted to bring together soldiers from different parts of the world to demonstrate the cultural and military significance of traditional Scottish music, dance, and pipe band performances. The first edition of the Military Tattoo was held in 1950 on the esplanade of Edinburgh Castle, attracting a small but enthusiastic audience.
Since then, the event has grown in scale and popularity, becoming a beloved annual tradition in Scotland. Over the years, the Military Tattoo has honored various countries, organizations, and units, featuring military bands, pipe bands, drumming corps, and precision marching units from around the world.
Types of Acts and Performers
The Military Tattoo is a carefully curated spectacle that features an array of talented performers from various military forces, countries, and units. Here are some examples of acts and performers that typically appear at the Military Tattoo:
• British Armed Forces: The Royal Marines, Royal Navy, British Army, and Royal Air Force (RAF) often perform at the Military Tattoo, showcasing their respective music, dance, and drumming traditions.
• International Military Performers: Representatives from the militaries of Canada, United States, Australia, and other nations have performed at the event, sharing their unique military music, dance, and cultural traditions.
• Pipe Bands: More than 150 pipe bands from Scotland, England, Ireland, and Canada have performed at the Military Tattoo, adding to the event’s distinctly Scottish flavor.
• Precision Drill and Marching: Elite military units, such as the Scots Guards, Gordon Highlanders, and Highland Fusiliers, showcase their precision drill and marching skills, performing complex maneuvers and formations.
• Showmanship and Pyrotechnics: To add excitement and spectacle, the Military Tattoo often incorporates high-tech lighting and pyrotechnics into the performances, transforming the castle esplanade into a dazzling display of sound, light, and movement.
Performing at the Military Tattoo
Becoming a part of the Military Tattoo is an elite honor, requiring strict auditioning and qualification processes. Performers are selected from military units and organizations, as well as from private pipe bands, drumming corps, and dance groups. The strict standards and selection process ensure that only the best talents are invited to participate, making the event a showcase of exceptional musical and visual performances.
Logistics and Venue
The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo takes place on the esplanade of Edinburgh Castle, a majestic and historic fortress situated above the city of Edinburgh. The castle esplanade provides a unique natural amphitheater, allowing the performances to be experienced by thousands of spectators while the medieval castle provides an atmospheric backdrop.
Key Dates and Schedule
The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo usually takes place over 11 nights in late August, with performances typically starting at 9:00 pm. Ticket sales open several months in advance, and the event typically sells out quickly due to high demand.
Conclusion
The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo is a testament to the rich cultural heritage and military traditions of Scotland and beyond. Over the past 70 years, the event has established itself as a premier celebration of music, dance, and precision performance, featuring some of the world’s finest military talents. With its unique setting, historic significance, and superb entertainment, the Military Tattoo is a must-see experience for anyone interested in military heritage, culture, and showmanship.
Important Facts:
- The first Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo took place in 1950.
- The event typically features around 1,000 performers from over 50 different countries.
- The esplanade of Edinburgh Castle provides a seating capacity for over 21,000 spectators.
- The event is broadcast worldwide, with an estimated audience of 100 million people.
Table: Typical Performer Categories
| Category | Description |
|---|---|
| Military Bands | Performing groups from the British Armed Forces and other international military units |
| Pipe Bands | Scottish-style pipe bands and Highland music ensembles |
| Drill and Marching Units | Elite military units performing precision drill and marching maneuvers |
| Show and Display Units | Performances featuring tanks, planes, and other military vehicles |
Important Dates:
- March: Ticket sales open
- Late August: Event takes place
- Late September: Closing date for ticket sales
Note: Dates may vary depending on the year, so always check the official Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo website for up-to-date information.
