Good Sounds in Bad Times - Music among the Anzacs in WW1

 An interesting new book has been published on music and the Anzacs.
Robert Holden's new book And the Band Played On explores a different sound of war, the music and live entertainment that helped divert our soldiers from the horrors of the front line, where death was never far from mind. Our troops trained and marched to war to the sound of brass bands, buglers summoned soldiers into action from morning to night and, when there was a break, be it in the mess huts, transport vehicles or the endless time spent in lice-ridden trenches, the men sang songs, recited poems or made music on simple instruments such as the harmonica, jaw harp, tin whistle or concertina. This ''down time'' was important in fortifying our troops, encouraging relaxation, camaraderie and a reminder of better times. It was diversion therapy of the best kind.

 

The author draws on extensive research from the National Archives and Australian War Memorial.

The book is published by Hardie Grant and sells for $29.95

To read the full review from the Melbourne Age, click here.

Jim Claven
Secretary
Lemnos Gallipoli Commemorative Committee