Countess of Wessex's String Orchestra
The Countess of Wessex's String Orchestra (CWSO) is a 24-member string band from the British Army's Royal Corps of Army Music. It is currently the only independent full-time string band in the British Armed Forces. It is named after Sophie, Countess of Wessex, the daughter-in-law of Queen Elizabeth II and Colonel-in-Chief of RCAM. It is stationed from the former quarters of the Royal Artillery at Woolwich Barracks. History. There have been string bands in existence in the British Army since the mid-18th century, usually being sported  by units of the Royal Artillery. In 1994, the Royal Artillery Band and Orchestra were absorbed in the newly formed Corps of Army Music. It was announced on 30 July 2013 that the Royal Artillery Orchestra would cease to exist in favour of a forthcoming "State String Orchestra", following the most recent cuts to Army Music. On 3 March 2014, Queen Elizabeth approved the title of the "Countess of Wessex’s String Orchestra" for the new military band in honour of the CAMUS Colonel-in-Chief. It was officially created on 1 April 2014. Earlier that February, the Royal Artillery  Band, formed a special "Veterans of the Royal Artillery Band" that paraded on General Gordon's Square for the last time in Woolwich. The Countess of Wessex first visited the orchestra in early December. The visit saw the orchestra perform a piece composed by members of the orchestra in her honor. Duties. It has been invited to perform at events such as investitures, ceremonies at Royal Households, state banquets and dinners. Its task are unique to the group as it is the first dedicated military ensemble designed for non-traditional instruments. It has performed in a combined setting with its  counterparts from the Royal Air Force and Royal Marines: the RAF Music Salon Orchestra and the String Orchestra from the Band of HM Royal Marines Portsmouth. Former Directors of Music include Major Philip Stredwick and Major David Hammond.