Following the formal Changing of the Guard ceremony earlier this week, a detachment of 20 talented musicians from the United States Sixth Fleet delighted crowds and dignitaries with a special performance on the Place du Palais.
On Monday 16th September, the same day that Prince Albert II received Italy’s new Ambassador to the Principality of Monaco, Manuela Ruosi, the US Sixth Fleet’s Ceremonial Band delivered a wonderful 12-minute aubade on the square in front of the Palace.
The performance, led by Ensign Adele Demi, followed the Changing of the Guard ceremony, which takes place daily at 11.55 am. Along with the members of the public who had assembled on the square to witness the occasion, Prince Albert and Ambassador Ruosi could be seen enjoying the show from one of the Palace balconies.
Read more: Prince Albert II extends warm welcome to Italy’s new Ambassador to Monaco
The US Sixth Fleet is currently based in Naples, the new ambassador’s hometown, but was previously stationed in Villefranche-sur-Mer from 1956 until 1967. This connection to the Riviera is celebrated each year in the coastal town.
The recent performance in Monaco was also part of the annual commemorations of Admiral de Grasse, François Joseph Paul, who was born in Le Bar-sur-Loup in 1722. He played a significant role in the Battle of the Chesapeake (1781) during the American War of Independence. The success of the French navy, under Paul’s command, led to General Charles Cornwallis’ surrender. In the weeks that followed, the Continental Army secured another important victory at Yorktown, prompting the British Government to negotiate an end to the war.
The Ceremonial Band is the “musical ensemble of reference” for official ceremonies in service to the Commander of US Naval Forces Europe and Africa, said a representative for the Prince’s Palace following the performance.
“This group plays a key role in strengthening ties with European and African partners by performing at official ceremonies, commemorations, parades, tattoos and other public events. Its rich and varied repertoire includes ceremonial music, military marches and popular music pieces,” they added.
See more: In pictures: Remembering the WWII Liberation of Monaco
The performance at the Place du Palais symbolises the strong diplomatic and cultural ties maintained between the Principality and the United States.
To see more of the special event, click on the images below:
Read related:
Prince Albert II takes leading role at 80th anniversary commemorations of Monaco’s 1944 Liberation
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Photo credits: Stéphane Danna / Michael Alesi / Axel Bastello / Palais Princier de Monaco / Monaco Communications Department
