The U.S. Army Old Guard Fife and Drum Corps

Small Team Show

12 Soldiers

Our 12-Soldier Small Team is our most versatile ensemble. Designed to be utilized in smaller venues, this ensemble is perfect for school presentations, galas, and State dinners.

Offering one drum major leading four fifes, four bugles, two snare drums, and one bass drum, this group is both adaptable and inspiring.

(Approximate show duration: 15 minutes)

Standard Show

22 Soldiers

Our 22-Soldier Standard Show is a dynamic mid-sized ensemble. Designed to be featured in larger venues, this ensemble is the perfect choice for opening ceremonies or professional sporting events.

Offering one drum major leading eight fifes, eight bugles, three snare drums and two bass drums, this show has entertained audiences from the Olympics to the White House.

(Approximate show duration: 12 minutes)

Arena Show

33 Soldiers

Our 33-Soldier Arena Show is the largest and most visually striking performance. Designed specifically for use in arena-sized venues, such as military tattoos, this ensemble is available by special request only.

Featuring one drum major leading twelve fifes, twelve bugles, five snare drums, and three bass drums, this show entertains audiences in the tens-of-thousands.

(Approximate show duration: 14 minutes)

Parade

12 or more Soldiers

Nothing is more American than a parade, so why not have yours step-off with one of the Nation’s premier marching organizations? Featuring either 12 or 22 Soldiers, our Parade presentation offers a unique spectacle of marching and music that is bound to be the highlight of your parade.

Colors Presentation

Three Soldiers supporting a Color Guard

An embodiment of National Pride and honor, our National Colors are the foundation of ceremonies and special events. Nothing in the world stirs the patriotic spirit in your audience more than the sound of The United States National Anthem performed on early-American instruments. Our Colors Presentation is designed to bring this experience to life at your major sporting event, gala or civic function.

**When presenting the colors in conjunction with a marching Color Guard, please request the participation of an Old Guard or Joint Service Honor Guard Colors team from the Military District of Washington.

Special Performances

The United States Army Old Guard Fife and Drum Corps is uniquely versatile in our performance capabilities. Our ability to perform in a variety of musical settings allows us to appear in locations such as symphony concert halls, professional sports venues, as well as on television and film.

We encourage you to contact our Operations office to inquire about your specialized performance needs.

Why do you wear red coats?

Military musicians of the period wore the reverse colors of the regiments to which they were assigned. According to General Orders, signed by General George Washington October 2, 1779, regiments from Virginia were to wear Blue Coats with Red Facing [Trim]. Thus, the Fife and Drum Corps wears red coats with blue facing.

Is this your full-time job?

Musicians in the Corps are full-time, Active Duty Soldiers in the United States Army. Our Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) is 42S – Special Band Musician. All Soldiers must complete Basic Combat Training upon entering the Army, and Soldier-Musicians are no exception. An assignment to The United States Army Old Guard Fife and Drum Corps is a permanent duty assignment, which means Soldiers remain a member of the Corps for their entire enlistment.

I only saw a small group perform – is that all the members you have in the Unit?

The United States Army Old Guard Fife and Drum Corps’ unique capabilities allow us the flexibility to perform in a wide range of settings. Our performances include many different sizes, configurations and content that is appropriate for a variety of venues and audiences.

What is the painting on the drums?

The painting on the front of the drums is the regimental colors of the 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard). In the center is the Old Guard Crest, of which each element holds symbolism for the unit. Around the edges are battle streamers for every campaign The Old Guard has participated in.

What is the spear the Drum Major uses? What about the hat?

The Drum Major of the Corps carries an Espontoon, an 18th century weapon that was carried by officers. It is used by the Drum Major to issue silent commands to the Corps. The Drum Major also wears the Light Infantry Cap, made of leather and bear fur. The red waist sash and baldric with two drum sticks further distinguish the Drum Major from other members of the Corps.

Where do you get your music from?

Our Production Staff writes and arranges all music and marching drill performed by the Corps. Soldiers are chosen for Production Staff following a rigorous selection process. An extensive knowledge of and experience with music, arranging, traditional music history, and drill writing is essential. Music is drawn from our own extensive collection at The United States Army Center for Martial Music.

How can I get a recording?

Recordings are available to download for free on our website here. Photographs, videos, and other media are also available. Please visit one of our Social Media link below here.

How do I request the Fife and Drum Corps?

The Old Guard Fife and Drum Corps, when requested and in appropriate situations, can take part in public events sponsored by non-military organizations. The U.S. Army Military District of Washington facilitates requests for such support. Approval and tasking authority is exercised according to governing regulations and practices. More information about requesting the Corps can be found here.