A Few Websites Reviewed

A History of Military Music and Military Instruments

This short article is a fine summation of some of the world’s military music. It is understandably limited to Europe and mostly British history. This is probably because it is a supplier of instruments to military organizations. Nonetheless, it is worth a read to learn how to effectively encapsulate centuries of practice and tradition of using music during warfare historically and recent developments.

http://www.middlehornleader.com/Evolution%20of%20the%20Bugle%20–%20Section%201.htm

This webpage – and its part 2 – gives a nice overview with fascinating detail of the history of the trumpet and bugle through the 18th century. Several of those details include the color red, shape of the instrument, cultures that used the instruments for ceremony and war, Greek usage, Roman, trumpets in the Bible, Machiavelli’s possible influence, and much more. Excellent information.

https://www.historynet.com/the-music-of-war.htm

Another rich source of information. Libro della arte della guerra makes its appearance again (Machiavelli, too), early tactical strategies giving way to more powerful weapons, the development of calls, von Steuben in America, perspective on historical use of music to inspire populations, and again, much more useful information. This webpage helps to integrate into the conversation about music used in war. Thus far there is a preponderance of attention to Europe, Britain, and the United States. Hmm. Where are the other continents and numerous countries during Europe, Britain, and United States historical periods?