Duke of Gloucester's Band 1811 (plate 1)

Regimental bands for the Foot Guards were formed in 1785. The 1st Foot Guards band was known as the Duke of York's Band and the 3rd Guards band was known as the Duke of Gloucester's. This is Plate 1 of two showing various musicians, probably representing the whole band as it was in 1811. The most distinctive aspect of their uniforms is the large bicorn hat. The rest of the regiment had been wearing a shako since 1800. The coats of the musicians have gold laced button loops placed in threes as per regimental distinction.
The top left figure is the Drum-Major who is a member of the Corps of Drums, but he marches in front of the band while the Corps follows behind. Reading from the left, the next five figures play trumpet, French horn, serpent, trombone and bassoon. Then come two percussionists in exotic costumes, a kettle drummer in peakless shako and embroidered jacket, and a boy with a triangle wearing a turban.

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