Chapter 3
The Sound of Freedom

The American Revolution wasn't fought only by generals and soldiers.

It was also fought by musicians.

Many of them were teenagers.

Some were no older than today's high school freshmen.

Standing beside the Continental Army were young drummers and fifers.

They did not carry rifles.

They carried instruments.

But make no mistake...

They were every bit as important to the army as the soldiers beside them.

In the confusion of battle, voices disappeared beneath the roar of muskets and cannon fire.

The drum became the commander's voice.

A particular rhythm meant "Advance."

Another meant "Retreat."

Still another called soldiers into formation.

The high, piercing sound of the fife carried melodies that inspired weary troops and reminded them why they were fighting.

These young musicians marched beside George Washington's soldiers through some of the darkest days in American history.

Their music provided order during chaos.

Confidence during uncertainty.

Hope during impossible odds.

When the war finally ended and America became a new nation, something remarkable happened.

The military traditions didn't disappear.

They became part of America's identity.

Parades celebrated victories.

Communities gathered to hear military bands perform.

Music became a symbol of patriotism and national pride.

But while America's military bands were inspiring a young nation...

Something else was quietly changing the country's future.

Millions of immigrants were arriving from around the world.

And they weren't arriving empty-handed.

They were bringing their music with them.