In 1798, an advertisement under the heading MARTIAL MUSIC petitioned the citizens of Alexandria to organize a wind band “for the accommodation and embellishment” of the city’s nine militia companies. The advertisement called for the establishment of a band of music to be funded by the militia and to be comprised of four clarinets, two horns, and two bassoons. This band, known as the Alexandria Band, was one of several “martial” ensembles that were active in Alexandria and, more broadly, Washington City during the early Federal Period (1790–1830). Featuring music and arrangements by J. C. Bach (1735–1782), C. F. Eley (1756–1832), and Samuel Holyoke (1762–1820), this concert presentation explores the early history of martial music in the Capital Region.

Elise Bonhivert & Dominic Giardino, historical clarinets
Christopher Caudill & Rachel Niketopoulos, natural horns
Kelsey Schilling, classical bassoon
Chris Troiano, serpent

This concert is generously sponsored by the Office of Historic Alexandria and supported by a grant from the Alexandria Historical Society.