Musica Militar

Military music (musica militar) is the ensemble playing of musical instruments such as brass, woodwinds and percussion for use in ceremonial occasions and marching. The musical repertoire of military bands includes orchestral compositions, concert marches and popular tunes. Depending on the tradition of their country, military musicians may also play chamber music, jazz and rock.

Musica militar has roots in ancient times, when armies used musical field music to communicate orders on the battlefield. This was done by using natural instruments such as bugles, bagpipes or fifes, and was accompanied by drums. In the Middle Ages, returning Crusaders brought Saracen military instruments and a concept of musical warfare back to Europe. From this, a new tradition of brass and woodwind military bands developed.

The modern world of military bands differs significantly from that of 100 years ago. With advances in communication and weapons, military bands are no longer required on the battlefield, but they continue to perform at ceremonial events. These include welcoming a visiting dignitary, saluting a fallen soldier or service member, or to mark an important event in a city or country.

In the 21st century, military bands are a symbol of national pride and a form of social interaction between soldiers. The Japan Self-Defense Force, for example, has a moderate number of military bands in all its services branches. The band units are located at the Army, Air and Maritime Self-Defense Forces bases, and each uses a different musical style.

Military bands are usually manned by Música militar enlisted members of the nation's army. They are contractually bound to stay with the military for their enlistment period, which can be four to five years. However, most are permitted or even encouraged to pursue other musical projects or teaching gigs in their off time.

Many countries have military bands, but they vary in their traditions and instrumentation. In Chile, military bands follow the same pattern as German military bands, with a few notable exceptions. The band of the Presidential Guard Mounted Ceremonial Squadron "Tarqui Grenadiers", for instance, has a mounted fanfare band section in its ranks.

Ecuadorian military bands have a similar formation to that of the French. Their percussion section is always placed in front of the band when marching for parades.

Cameroonian military bands also follow the French precedent for a military band, with the Yaounde based Music Band Company of the Cameroonian Armed Forces being the most famous example. The band was established in 1959, a year before the country's independence from France, and is now led by Captain Florent Essimbi.