Bandmaster 1857

The bandmaster had a unique uniform because he was the only member of the band to hold a commissioned rank, as shown by his crimson sash which is on his left shoulder and hangs well below the hem if his tunic. The tunic is well laced with gold and the wings are also gold laced. The cuffs are in a similar style to the rest of the band, having no slashed flap. The collar is not very clear but does not seem to have the amount of gold that other officers had. It was quite common for the bandmaster to play an instrument, which here, is a clarinet. I cannot explain the prominence of La Traviata on the pile of music scores behind him. In the 18th century, bandmasters were civilian musicians paid for by the officers of the regiment. In the 19th century, only serving soldiers played in the band, in wartime acting as medics.

Band | Regimental details