The Snare Drum Section performs on custom, handmade rope-tension snare drums in ceremonies, parades, and concerts.
Our snare drum musicians come from a variety of backgrounds including classical percussion, drumset, Ancient fife and drum, and Drum Corps International. It is these broad stylistic influences that make the section so unique.
The origin of the snare drum can be traced back hundreds of years to Switzerland, where it was first used by Swiss mercenary forces to coordinate troops on the battlefield. For centuries, this practice spread throughout Europe and was eventually brought to the American colonies. At its founding in 1775, the Continental Army inherited the British methods of snare drumming, a tradition which continued as an essential tool of military communication through the American Civil War.
After the Civil War, thousands of drummers from both sides went home, taking with them their drumming knowledge and skills. Many would start community music groups, sparking a rich American tradition of drum corps and marching bands that grew through the 20th century and fostered by The Old Guard Drumline to this day!
The Snare Drum Section performs on handmade, rope-tensioned snare drums designed specifically for their performance demands. The drums employ synthetic heads and measure 17" in diameter by 20" long. All drums are emblazoned with the Regimental Colors of the 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard) flanked by the campaign streamers for all battles in which The Old Guard has participated.
