A BASINGSTOKE musician has joined one of the world’s top military bands and is set to perform at concerts across the world.

Matthew Taylor will play the trombone in the Band of Her Majesty’s Royal Marines Portsmouth after successfully completing three years of training.

The 20-year-old was taught by top military musicians and civilian professors during his time at the Royal Marines School of Music in Portsmouth.

He has already performed at the Royal Albert Hall and in front of The Queen at the naming ceremony for the Royal Navy’s new aircraft carrier HMS Queen Elizabeth.

His talents will now be showcased throughout the world, when he performs at prestigious engagements involving the royal family, heads of state and other top dignitaries.

The former Peter Symonds College pupil said: “I am extremely proud to have passed out from the Royal Marines School of Music.

It gave me the opportunity to study for my dream job and now I’m looking forward to performing with some of the best musicians in the world.”

As well as being world-class musicians, members of t he Royal Marines Band Service are trained to support military and humanitarian operations across the globe, working as casualty handlers, drivers, radio operators and in convoy protection, giving vital support to troops on the ground and at sea.