My husband's grandmother had a trio of brothers who rose to prominence as military bandmasters in Canada. Born into dire poverty in London, England, they prospered by joining the military early, with one ultimately settling in Toronto, one in Vancouver, and one in London, Ontario.
The most famous brother was John Daniel Slatter (1864-1954), who married Sophie Marie Elizabeth Le Gallais (1861-1943) on April 21, 1887 at Christ Church Cathedral in Montreal, Canada. They had three children together before John applied for and was appointed to the position that would make his name.
John became the second bandmaster of the 48th Highlanders Band in Toronto, Canada. He led the band for an astonishing 50 years as they toured the world for months and fueled the fad for kiltie bands.
Here is the story of his appointment, from the Daily Mail and Empire newspaper of Toronto, published 25 January 1896, with my comments in brackets:
The Band Committee of the 48th Highlanders, composed of Major Cosby, Capt. Robertson, and Lt. Hamilton, have selected a successor to Bandmaster Griffin [founding bandmaster]. From a large number of applicants Mr. John Slatter, at present residing in Detroit, has been appointed as bandmaster, and will be here on the first of February [1896] to take charge. Mr. Slatter was highly recommended, and after a careful examination he was given the appointment.
Mr. Slatter, who is between 30 and 35 years of age [actually almost 32], is, in appearance, somewhat like the stalwart sgt-major of the Highlanders. He has served in the 7th Royal Fusiliers' and 1st Life Guards' bands, where he made a reputation as a soloist and instrumentalist, besides being considered a [musical] writer of merit. He has a thorough knowledge of military band music, and has been in the orchestra of the Grand Opera house here, and for a time a member of [John Philip] Sousa's band.
John and Sophie had four more children after Slatter took up his post in Toronto, although one baby sadly died in infancy. The couple enjoyed 55 years of marriage before Sophie's death during World War II.
John continued to lead the 48th Highlanders Band until 1946. He received honors galore and maintained his devotion to military music throughout his life.
Happy 139th anniversary to John and Sophie.
Military bandmaster is quite the unique occupation. I knew the military had bands, and earlier, drummers, etc., but I never thought about them having a bandmaster. This is a fun story and happy anniversary to John and Sophie.
ReplyDelete