Military Music & Exhibition

Military Music a Community Curated Exhibition

Military Music is a research project which looks at the evolution of army music and uncovers some fascinating Fusiliers stories. The exhibition traces the history of music from its early origins as a weapon of intimidation on the battle field to its mainly ceremonial role today.

The volunteers of The Fusilier Museum have uncovered some intriguing characters along the way; from Pte Frank Gee a variety performer and comedian to Christopher Stone, 'The first gentleman of the gramophone'.

Pte Gee kept his battalion entertained during training even setting up his own troop, The Fusiloils. Deciding that the battalion was in need of its own marching tune he wrote his own words to the tune of The Battle Hymn Republic. Although he returned to the stage this accomplished entertainer was to die destitute and alone refusing the help of the battalion's Old Comrades Association.

Major Christopher Stone was a soldier, author and broadcaster. After leaving the Fusiliers he become hugely popular as the UK's first radio DJ, playing gramophone records on the radio for the first time.

As well as the stories of individuals the exhibition explores the many different types of music to be found within the army. Many will have seen soldier's Beating Retreat down Horse-Guard's parade or Trooping the Colour in honour of the Sovereign's birthday.

Military bands play at events both at home and abroad and can be found performing as a small ensembles or at huge colourful spectacles such as the Edinburgh tattoo and even at last year's Olympic games.

The pomp and circumstance of big ceremonial occasions is in stark contrast to the brash songs of the everyday soldier. The bawdy and often condemned songs which shine a unique light onto the experience of men who were facing death on a daily basis. Songs which do not glorify a magnificent death but that acknowledged that sometimes things are brutal and unpleasant.

More of the findings from the project are on display at St. Sepulchre-without-Newgate, Holborn Viaduct, Nr St. Paul's Tube, from 14th August - 12th September 2013.