Educated and often linguists, drummers were highly regarded and paid the same rate as officers.

Drums were used to relay orders on the battlefield and to lead the way when marching. They were also sent to parley with the enemy, often going into their camps and returning with vital information about supplies and numbers.

Drumming is a very honourable and rewarding role; you are the focal point of the regiment when marching, keeping up the morale on marches and ensuring that manoeuvres are done to exact timing. You do not necessarily need to be musical - the beats are easy to learn, and full training will be given. Although the drummer's role is non- combatant, during battles they are situated behind the pike & musket blocks to beat encouragement and convey atmosphere, so you experience the tension and excitement of the battle as much as anyone else.