Figure 1.--We notice several German boys bands. We have been able to identify a few. Others we have found photographs, but are unable to identify. The boys here weraring blazers, white short pants, while knee socks, and leather shoes. We think the photograph was taken during the late-1950s or early-60s.

We notice several German boys bands. They were different than village bands in that only boys participated. Some have a long histor dating to the early-19th century like the Kleine Schuetzentrommler. Some may be even earlier. Most have more recent histories. They have been formed by adults interested in music. They are similar in way with choirs, although with the band, the Church was not important in supporting them. we have identified some if these bands. We see others, but can not yet identify them. Perhap our German readers will know more. These groups are important in part because the schools offer a less importnt extra-curricular program. Germam schools, unlike American schools, for exmple do not normally have marching bands.

Knabenmusik Meeresburg

A German reader reports on The Knabenmusik Meeresburg. He tells us, "The band was founded after World War II in 1953 and has since then risen to high standards. They perform usually in summer at the Meersburger Schloss as well as other events. They are well-known not only in Meersburg and Baden-Württemberg but also other cities in Germany (Hannover). There have also been trips to foreign coiuntries, including the United States, Hungary, Norway, Moscow, and Belgium (Bruxelles). In addition they can be heared by radio, TV or on CDs. They won awards at international competitions as well. As a costume the 10-18 year olds wear a white shirt, red vest, black knickerbockerlike trousers, with white stockings, black shoes and a black hat with a white ring (Rokkoko style ca 1730-1780)." [Mueller] Our German reader does not think that the Knabenmusik Meersburg is only marching, but sometimes it could be doing so.

Kleine Schuetzentrommler

This is the "Kleine Schuetzentrommler". It`s a music band with a traditional costume. The members are boys between 6 and 15 years. The Kleinen Schuetzentrommler has a long history. They were mentioned the first time in 1816. A German reader tells us, "In the mid of the 20th century the boys got their first costumes. These costumes were similar to other traditional student costumes and because of that the Kleine Schuetzentrommler adopted their own costumes. Since 1959 their costumes changed only in few points. Today the only part of the uniform, which remind to the old student like uniform is the cap. These caps are still part of German students fraternity. The costumes of the Kleine Schuetzentrommler is a traditional costumes with many old elements. It consists of a white longsleeved shirt, a blue vest with the coat of arms of Biberach at the chest, beige short pants, white kneesocks, sandals, and a blue cap."

Other Bands

We see several other German boy bands. Unfortunately many are not identified. We can destinguih different groups from their uniforms, but can not yet identify them. The boys here weraring blazers and white shorts we think during the late-1950s or early-60s are a good example. Perhap our German readers will know more.

Sources

Mueller, Reinhard. E-mail message, September 17, 2003.

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Created: 3:12 AM 3/11/2014
Last updated: 3:12 AM 3/11/2014