About

Established in 1995, Spirit Fife and Drum Corps reflects the early military history of Cape Cod, Massachusetts. In the War of 1812, Cape Cod militia were involved in numerous Naval conflicts, most notably the Battle of Orleans. On December 19, 1814, local militia blockaded the British from invading Rock Harbor, the town’s gateway into Cape Cod Bay. Building on this local history, the corps honors the courage and vigilance of Americans who defend and preserve our country’s independence. The Corps is comprised of almost thirty young people who play traditional music on handmade keyless wooden fifes and rope tension drums.

The Corps uniform is an exact replica of the musicians’ uniforms from the First U.S. Infantry Regiment in the War of 1812. From the pewter buttons hand-cast in button molds, to hand stitched leather “shako” hats with ostrich feather plumes, every detail is accurate.

Being part of Spirit Fife and Drum has allowed members to “live history,” enriching their appreciation of their American heritage in a way that transcends the usual classroom experience. The ensemble has studied historical figures, events, and local history, applying this historic knowledge to their own performance of Fife and Drum.

Performance highlights include playing for the return of the 1795 Time Capsule to the Massachusetts State House, invitations by former Massachusetts Governor, Mitt Romney, to performing at the Head of State Arrival Ceremonies for both President Kagame of Rwanda and the Afghan Head of State, to performances of 1812 Overture with the Mashpee Pops. The Corps continues to march at musters and parades across New England.

Spirit Fife & Drum | P.O. Box 2831, Orleans, MA 02653 USA
1732 1st Ave, #27457, New York, NY 10128 | 508-255-4044