Swiss Marching Music (MH 46/1976)

swissmusic

Marching Music in Switzerland dates back to the earliest days of Swiss history, remaining ever present as the Confederation defended against foreign aggression throughout the centuries.

From the harsh and fearsome sounds of primitive horns and the simple but stimulating rhythms of drums and fifes, Swiss marching music developed finally into fully orchestrated works of patriotic fervour.

Musical content

1. Berne Municipal Band: Bernese March
(Trad., arr. Karl Friedemann)
2. Band of the First Reserve Force, Fribourg: De Diessbach March
(Anonymous, arr. Siedler)
3. Swiss Military Band: Marignan
(Jean Daetwyler)
4. Zurich Municipal Band: Gandria
(Gian Battista Mantegnazzi)
5. Ensemble Romand d’Instruments de Cuivre: General Guisan March
(Stephan Jäggi)
6. Country Band Zoge-n-am Boge: March-Waltz
(Trad.)
7. Metallharmonie Bern: Salute to the Isle of Man
(Hans Honegger)
8. Official Band of the Swiss Army: Alpine March
(Hans Honegger)

Programme information

Musica Helvetica MH 46. Swiss Marching Music. Produced 1976 for SBC / SRI by Lance Tschannen.

Background information

Switzerland is a small alpine nation shaped and influenced by great cultural cross-currents that have swept through Europe over centuries. Out of elements of diversity, the people of this country have forged a distinctly Swiss identity. And music is one of its most eloquent expressions. “Musica Helvetica” explores different facets of music in Switzerland from its earliest beginnings to the latest works of modern Swiss composers, from folk music to rock and jazz. This historical series span the years 1973 to 1998. These recordings are not available.