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Introduction
For centuries, military musicians have played a vital role in conflict, ceremony, and remembrance. From lifting the spirits of soldiers on the battlefield to leading the nation in moments of reflection, their music is more than performance—it is a powerful tool for communication, motivation, and unity.
Featuring first-hand accounts from military veterans, these resources bring history to life. Hear musicians share their experiences—from playing the Last Post to performing in remote communities across the world. Through short video clips, engaging resource sheets, and a thought-provoking activity book, students are encouraged to discuss, explore, and reflect on the enduring role of music in military tradition.
Discover the power of military music—where history is heard, not just told.
Resource 1 – Kneller Hall
Learn about the history of military music in this impressive building in the suburbs of West London.
Resource 2 – Music for morale
Find out about the role music plays in maintaining the morale of the modern army – how has music remained such an important part of military life?
Resource 3 – Musical messages
Discover how the military uses its regimental bands as a source of influence through the common language of music.
Resource 4 – Ceremony and Celebration
No major life event is complete without music. From a school ensemble playing at a local fete to a military band at a royal wedding, music sets the tone of any gathering. Find out how the military use music to set the mood.
Resource 5 – Remembrance and the last post
Listen to and learn how the British bugle calls developed and find out more about how we remember those who sacrificed their lives for their country.
Activity book
This activity book links to the individual resources listed above.
learning outcomes
Using these resources students will explore:
🎵 Kneller Hall – The historic home of British Army music.
🎵 Music for Morale – How music has supported soldiers in times of war.
🎵 Musical Messages – The role of sound in signalling commands and warnings.
🎵 Celebration and Ceremony – The grandeur of military pageantry.
🎵 Remembrance – The lasting significance of music in honouring service and sacrifice.
Curriculum Links
As well as providing unique historical insight, these resources support tie in closely with the requirements in Music to study musical contexts:
- the effect of purpose and intention on how music is created, developed and performed in different historical, social and cultural contexts
- the effect of audience, time and place on how music is created, developed and performed in different historical, social and cultural contexts
In addition they provide the opportunity to develop awareness of military band instruments, styles and approaches and encourage students to develop as effective and independent learners with enquiring minds. (Music GCSE Subject Content, 2015)
usage information
Our resources are all provided free of charge. Whilst they remain the intellectual property of Legasee Educational Trust, we would be delighted if you would download, print off, photocopy and use in the way that best suits your learning and teaching styles.
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Interested in our educational resources for teachers about Military Musicians?
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Watch the untold stories of our Veterans about
Military Musicians
Military Musicians is part of the collection:
Cross-Conflict Military Projects
It was clearly a confrontation and we clearly won it. It rates up there with the Cuban missile crisis.
– robert van der linden, smithsonian historian