The Unifying, Comforting, and Organizational Power of Music in the American and French Revolutions

Throughout the American and French revolutions, music was present within the military and in the lives of the civilians. Music was heavily integrated into the Continental Army for organizational purposes with the help of John Hiwell, Inspector and Superintendent of Music in the Army. Signals played by drummers and fifers were used such as reveille, retreat, and tattoo in order to help organize the lives of the soldiers. During the French Revolution, singing was a common means to express political beliefs. Two of the most popular tunes that were sung were Ça ira and La Marseillaise. In addition to revolutionary songs, opéra comique amd comédie héroïque, or rescue opera, was an influential means of political expression in France such as Cherubini’s opera, Lodoiska. Throughout both the American and French revolutions, music had the power to organize, comfort, entertain, and unify individuals in the midst of war.