History of NACWM

Civil War Musicians: The Unsung Heroes

 

In the annals of Civil War history, the feats of valiant generals and daring infantrymen are well-documented. However, often overlooked are the brave men who served not with rifles, but with instruments. The musicians of the Civil War played roles far beyond simple entertainment, displaying courage that was on par with those on the front lines.

 

Beyond the Music: Duty and Service

 

Contrary to popular belief, Civil War musicians did far more than just play their instruments. They served as stretcher bearers, assisted the wounded, ran ambulances during skirmishes, and relayed crucial audible orders during battle. Theirs was a role that demanded both bravery and resilience.

 

For instance, drummers, despite being unarmed, would venture out into the heat of battle to signal troop movements and orders. Given their pivotal role in communication, they often became prime targets for the enemy, exposing them to significant risk.

 

A Misunderstood Rivalry: Field Musicians vs. Brass Bands

 

It's essential to understand that all musicians, regardless of their specific roles, made substantial sacrifices and contributions. Field musicians, primarily consisting of drummers and buglers, sometimes viewed brass bands as having an easier task. This sentiment arose because brass bands, "in theory," were perceived as mainly entertaining troops from a safer distance.

 

However, stories like that of the Philadelphia Brigade Band debunk this notion. This ensemble, a mix of brass and drummers, displayed unparalleled bravery during the Battle of Gettysburg. On its third day, amid the largest cannonade in North American history, the band was ordered to stand at the artillery's epicenter, playing patriotic tunes. This defiant act served as a morale booster, showing infantrymen that if musicians could withstand the cannonade while playing, they could lay in wait with their rifles.

 

The NACWM: Uniting Musicians Past and Present

 

The National Association of Civil War Musicians (NACWM) stands as a testament to the vital role these musicians played. As efforts are underway to resurrect this organization, it's crucial to dispel the rumor that it only represented fife and drum players. Every Civil War musician, regardless of their instrument, deserves recognition.

 

Brass horn musicians, as with their counterparts, were heroes in their right, and they too should find representation in the new NACWM. To exclude them based on antiquated beliefs or misunderstandings is to forget the immense sacrifices and contributions they made.

 

Conclusion

 

The musicians of the Civil War were more than mere entertainers; they were soldiers, heroes, and bearers of hope in some of the nation's darkest hours. As we look back and honor their sacrifices, let us do so without prejudice or division, remembering that every musician, be it from a brass band or the infantry line, played a part in shaping history. In resurrecting the NACWM, let's celebrate all musicians' bravery and unity during the Civil War, ensuring that their legacy is never forgotten.