The History of Musica Militar

 

Throughout history, the musica militar has played a fundamental role in military life. It has been an expression of the needs of men on the frontline, of the bond between military and civilians and of the army's relations with the nation. It has also been a witness of the great events of war and its aftermath, as well as of the everyday work of armies, such as parades, dawn serenades and concerts.

In Ancient times and the Early Christian era, musical instruments served two purposes: conveying orders and arousing military spirit. These were expressed by calls, monotonous chants and discordant sounds in some nations, while being harmonious and pleasing to the ear in others. Over time, improvements in instruments and technological innovations related to the conveying of orders resulted in a gradual decline in celeustic music and a transition towards martial music.

It was during the reign of Louis XIV that musica militar began to become a separate discipline. The monarch sought to enhance the prestige of his troops and to increase their morale. The military marches he composed and which were later adopted by his peers were designed to evoke the image of the royal soldier and affirm the cohesion of his armies, through a unified repertory. The use of "high" instruments, such as kettledrums and horns, was intended to amplify the sound and create a greater sense of unity and energy in the ranks.

Following the French revolution, the role of martial music changed. It became involved in the normalization and even exaltation of war, thanks to the music hall performances carried out by artists sent to the front and the songs that were sung in the battalion bars and on the battlefield. The musical genre of the symphony orchestra was born and its musicians were invited to accompany ceremonial acts, but also to bring the army closer to its public through concerts and dawn serenades.

In the nineteenth century, when many soldiers Musica militar returned to their homelands after having spent a long period of service abroad, bands were organized in small and large communities. It was at this time that the great American band leader, John Philip Sousa, was born. In the United States, as well as in many European countries, a tradition of military bands developed with the formation of schools that taught the discipline. In these countries, the use of traditional musical instruments was favored, while in other places, jazz appeared for the first time and contributed to the normalization of military music, even within concert halls. It is now a cultural legacy that is transmitted to new generations. It is also a legacy of great patriotic value. It is therefore a source of inspiration to contemporary composers who, through their work, seek to make armed conflicts less tragic and more humane. They know that the symphonies, operas and ballets that they write will help to reshape the perception of the modern conflict in the minds of people.