held on the
South Lawn of the
White House. The musicians of this unit recall the
fifes and drums from the days of the American Revolution as they perform in uniforms patterned after those worn by the musicians of Gen.
George Washington's
Continental Army. Military musicians of the period wore the reverse colors of the regiments to which they were assigned. The uniforms worn by the members of the Corps are dated circa 1781, and consist of black tricorn hats, white wigs, waistcoats, colonial coveralls, and
red regimental coats. The 69-member Corps uses 10-hole fifes, handmade rope-tensioned drums and two-valve bugles, which bring to life the exciting sounds of the Continental Army.
The Troop Step Perhaps the most distinctive signature of the musicians of this unit is the
troop step, reminiscent of the ceremonial steps of the
Household Regiments of the
British Army. While playing their instruments, the musicians march forward at a slow, ceremonial pace (
pass in review), while pointing their toes, toe touching the ground first. After these troop steps, typically, the Fife and Drum Corps changes back to normal pace, stepping off at normal step, playing
Yankee Doodle, to the applause of the crowds.
Drum Major The drum major of the unit is distinguished from the other musicians by his headgear, the light-infantry Cap. In contrast to modern Army bands, and as an indication of prominence, he carries an
espontoon instead of the standard mace. The espontoon is an 18th-century weapon carried by officers. However, it is used by the drum major to issue silent commands to the Corps. ==Performances==