Headquarters Music Services (HQMS) is the entity that oversees all threemilitary bands in theRoyal Air Force (RAF). The Central Band with the RAF Salon Orchestra, the Band of theRAF Regiment and the Band of the RAF College.[1][2][3] Acting as the RAF's version of theBritish Army'sRoyal Corps of Army Music, it is part ofRoyal Air Force Music Services, which is the larger organizational body for RAF bands.
The HQMS also provides training courses to all musical personnel and overseers the introduction of new personnel into RAF bands.[4] The HQMS is based out ofRAF Northolt inGreater London.[5][6] The Principal Director of Music, currentlyWing Commander Piers Morrell, is the officer in charge of RAF Music Services. In May 2023, he directed thefanfare trumpeters of the Royal Air Force at the2023 Coronation.[7] Wg Cdr Morrell is accompanied bySquadron Leader Richard Murray as Director of Music for HQMS, as well as an exec team of 1 Warrant Officer, 5 Flight Sergeants, 1 Sergeant & 1 Corporal who are all musicians and two civilians.
Since 1951, bronze and silver medals have been awarded to music students by the HQMS.[8]