The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo

Set against the unique backdrop of Edinburgh Castle, the diamond jubilee of the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo features talented performers from Jordan, Poland, Australia, South Africa, New Zealand,Switzerland and the USA, as well as a very strong representation from the UK.

The programme promises a variety of high class acts, filling the castle esplanade with a truly memorable celebration of music and dance. One of this year's highlights is the unique Massed Pipes and Drums from home and from overseas. Also featured is a thrilling display of mini-motorcycle magic from the Imps; the Edinburgh Tattoo debut of the band of the Polish Border Guard, with their blend of traditional mountain music; the Citadel Regimental Band and Pipes from Charleston in South Carolina, who give a precise performance of music and marching; the Bands, Drill Team and Mounted Guard of Honour from the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, who perform a captivating Middle Eastern display of music and drill.

Also featured is the Band of the Brigade of Ghurkhas with a high speed accelerando at 140 paces per minute. Another highlight is a fast-moving gymnastic display from the Army Physical Training Corps with thrills and, hopefully, no spills.

This year the Army takes the lead, represented by the bands of the Coldstream and Grenadier Guards. No Edinburgh Military Tattoo would be complete without impeccable international dance from the Massed Highland Dancers, this year from Scotland and New Zealand. There is also a display from Army Dancers. Not to be missed is an entertaining display courtesy of the the New Zealand Army Band.

The Tattoo ends with the sound of the Lone Piper as Major Gavin Stoddart reprises the role his father performed in the first Tattoo in 1950.