Become a drummer with the Earl of Manchester's Regiment of Foote

Join up now by emailing theearlofmanchesters@ The sound of war drums can be an incredibly stirring experience, which creates atmosphere on the battlefield and produces a real spectacle for the public. Drummers were a vital part of a 17th Century army - because battlefields are noisy places they signalled a commander's orders to the army by using different drum beats. They also helped intimidate the enemy and stir troops into action. The idea of a 'drummer boy' is a relatively modern one - 17th Century drummers would have been strong, experienced and high ranking officers who could be entrusted with such an important role.