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"While books on the military abound, there are certain aspects of Army life that have had little or no attention paid to them. One of these is the music of the armed forces, which once regulated every area of a soldier's life and accompanied his every activity. From waking up in the morning, through meal-times, on the parade-ground, while marching and on the battlefield, music was an integral part of military life and acted as a timekeeper, a rallying cry and a system to relay orders. Most of all, it provided regimental identity. With Music of the Scottish Regiments, David Murray has produced a history and overview of all aspects of the music found within Scottish regiments, both Lowland and Highland. From the origins of military music to what the future holds for the regimental bands, which are now under further threat from amalgamation; and from the music played by marching bands - much admired by many from around the world at showcase events such as the Edinburgh Military Tattoo - to the everyday calls which governed soldier's lives, as well as giving them comfort in unfamiliar surroundings and in times of conflict. In fact, all facets of the fife, drums, bugles and pipes that carried on the proud tradition of martial music are examined. There are detailed accounts of how the music has evolved over the last three centuries and how it is related to the traditions of Scotland and its clans, as well as descriptions of the ceremonies, rituals and dress that were once a fundamental part of military life. The book is illustrated throughout with black-and-white photographs, which represent the pipe and military bands over the centuries and the men who played them. It also contains a wealth of military folklore and personal experience, derived from David Murray's thirty years of service and a lifelong passion for the music of the Scottish regiments."--BOOK JACKET.