Out of the Theatre: Popular Faces of a Military Band in Croatia

• In Event: Habsburg-Pop: Musical Markets and Multiculturalism in the Late Habsburg Empire

Abstract

Military musical ensembles in the past performed on various occasions, from private to public, from military to civilian. In the late 19th century, regimental ensembles primarily had to be in the service of their regiment, but playing music outside it represented additional income for their musicians, as well as for the regiment itself. On the example of the 79th regiment, which was stationed in the Austro-Hungarian port of Rijeka / Fiume at the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries, its popular side will be presented. Their military orchestra performed in nearby towns for civilian purposes. In fact, in neighbouring Opatija / Abbazia, an eminent imperial summer resort, they even competed with two other local civilian ensembles in entertaining prominent tourists. Their operating conditions, locations and, according to preserved sources, a specific repertoire will be presented.

Author

• Vjera Katalinić, Croatian Academy of Sciences and Arts (Croatia)