Figure 1.--the "Bohemian" brass bands (whether Czech or Sudenten German) were famous. Some of the bands became professional touring bands. One of the most popular became "Die Egerlaender Musikanten" (the Egerland Musicians) under the direction of Ernst Mosch. They performed all over Europe and also in Carnegie Hall in their old-fashiond costumes from the pre-WWII era. This photograph was taken in the 1950s. Note the boys in the audience wearing knickers-length lederhosen. |
Germany along with Austria, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, and Slovenia, are THE brass band countries in Europe. Nearly every village and town had its own band. The German musicians always wore a uniform, even in the poorest villages. I am not nore at this time how common it was for boys to participate in these bands historically. A reader informs us,
"Many of the bands still exist today and they seem to have no problem attracting young musicians. I have several videos of German folk music in which a number of brass bands participate and I am absolutely amazed how many young boys and teen agers are active musicians in those bands. They all wear the same uniforms as the older members. Some of the kids do not look older than 9, 10 years of age. In spite of all the rock craze these old-fashioned hoompa bands seem to attract a lot of youngsters. You can see and hear how they enjoy their contribution to the band." The "Bohemian" brass bands (both Czech or Sudenten German) were especially famous. A European reader reports, "One of the most popular became "Die Egerlaender Musikanten" (the Egerland Musicians) under the direction of Ernst Mosch. They performed all over Europe and also in Carnegie Hall in their old-fashiond costumes from the pre-World War II era. Their brass band sound was unique and immediately recognizable. I have several tapes and records of this band and I love the music!"
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