Songs & Music of the Redcoats: A History of the War Music of the British Army 1642-1902

An authoritative pioneering work that "investigates the real music of war." Included is a long narrative as well as a large collection of soldiers' songs of all types, from "Johnny Cope" to "The Roast Beef of Old England," with over 50 piano arrangements. -Ribald, rousing, sentimental, satirical, The use of instrumental music in war is also covered, old favourites are re-appraised, and some bizarre stories unfold. To find material for his book, the author has combed the memoirs of the soldiers of Cromwell, Wolfe, Marlborough, Wellington, Roberts and Buller, to name but a few. The result is a book of value to the historian and musician, and one which should delight the general reader.