Instrumental in preserving the Breton culture, Bagad de Lann-Bihoue are the only military band to represent the French navy and the region's heritage. Formed in 1952 at the naval air station of Lann-Bihoue, the ever-changing lineup of approximately 30 percussionists, bagpipes, and bombard players have performed in front of several French presidents, the Queen, and Pope John Paul II during a career which has seen them survive several attempts by the government to dissolve the group. In the late '80s, they found fame with their self-titled debut album and an appearance on Champs-Elysees with Alain Souchon, who had previously penned a tribute to the band in 1977. In 1997, they recorded the soundtrack for mini-series Entre Terre et Mer and in 2012, celebrated their 60th anniversary with their hit album Degemer Mat, Bienvenue. ~ Jon O'Brien