Musical performance in the Canadian military: A preliminary analysis of an institution

The performance of military bands has been a tradition in Canada since they were brought over by the British in the mid-eighteenth century. During the following two centuries, Canadian military bands have changed in terms of numbers, band composition, type of music performed, drill etc., but are still closely rooted in their British traditions. One of the greatest challenges that those involved with military music performance have faced arises from principles embedded in military musical performance itself. As part of the Canadian Forces (CF), military bands maintain certain values, including those of discipline and organization, both of which are displayed through military drill. However, while military bands are obliged to present a certain level of military discipline, they—like non-military ensembles—must uphold standards of musical skill, creativity and expression, while providing entertainment value for the audience. What has resulted is an amalgam of musical performances, comprised of disciplined military drill and music on the one hand and creative drill routines and a variety of entertaining musical styles on the other. This has allowed CF bands to retain the old military music traditions and to attract public interest in order to continue their roles as ambassadors of the CF and as morale boosters.