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The Civilian ArchiveLegasee’s Military Musicians Project explores the vital role of music in the British Military. From battlefield morale to state ceremonies, military musicians have shaped history. Through veteran interviews and community engagement, this project ensures their legacy and the story of Kneller Hall lives on.
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Geordie Thomson
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Paul Collis-Smith
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Stuart Hall
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Roger Swift
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Louis Davies
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Len Tyler
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Robert Ely
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Jeremy Ansell
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Geoff Pratt
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David Timms
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David Loftus
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Alan Carcary
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About Military Musicians
For centuries, music has been at the heart of military life—boosting morale on the battlefield, leading troops into action, and representing the British Military at ceremonial and international events. Military musicians are both soldiers and performers, combining their craft with service to their country.
At the core of this project is Kneller Hall, the historic home of the Royal Military School of Music in Twickenham. For over 150 years, it trained musicians for the Corps of Army Music, shaping generations of military performers. Though the school closed in 2021, its legacy endures.
To honour this heritage, Legasee partnered with Chase Bridge Primary School in Twickenham, engaging students in the history of military music and its local significance. The project included a visit to Kneller Hall and an oral history interview with Major Roger Swift, a wonderful veteran with great stories to tell.
Through these recordings, we ensure that the voices and contributions of military musicians are preserved for future generations.
Are you a teacher?
Download our Military Musicians teaching resource...
Military Musicians is part of the collection:
Cross-Conflict Military Projects
Join us in honoring the legacy of and inspiring future generations with the power of human resilience and international cooperation. Through our interviews and lesson plans, you can help to ensure that the stories of continue to be remembered and celebrated for generations to come.
