The inseparable melody: fire brigade music as part of our culture

What does the fiery world of the fire brigade have in common with the sonorous harmonies of music? This exciting question asked Thorsten Zywietz, the federal leader of the German Fire Brigade Association (DFV), in the latest online event "DFV Direkt". A topic that is burning! He took the audience on an acoustic journey through history and the inseparable connection between fire brigade and music.

From the beginnings of the fire brigade to this day: music plays a central role! Zywietz revealed that the first fire departments were already dependent on musical signals when they were founded. "Commands such as 'water march' or 'hose extension' were transmitted with a clear transmission by signal horns and pipes," said Zywietz. It was a time when the sound of the instruments was vital to coordinate measures during an assignment.

alarm horns, tradition and camaraderie

The alarm itself happened through majestic sound signals. The “special signal” for emergency vehicles known today has its origins at the German signal instrument factory 'Martin' from Markneukirchen. "This special horn became the standard and created the basis for our modern alarm procedures," said the federal leader. A sound that is unmistakable and knows every firefighter in Germany!

But the fire brigade music is more than just signaling! It was and is an important part of the community and office that maintains the camaraderie. Whether marching, at festivals or other meetings - the fire brigade music is a symbol of unity and pride. Interestingly, there was close cooperation with military orchestras that brought valuable experiences and skills into the ranks of the fire brigade.

a return to music after dark times

Despite the dark chapter of history, such as National Socialism, the fire brigade music remained, albeit severely restricted. The 1960s brought a turning point-the recognition and promotion of the music units flourished! In 1963, Germany already had 1,100 music units with over 30,000 active fire brigade musicians. That was no coincidence, but a respected tradition!

With the constant further development of fire music music, their tasks also grow. Today she sees herself as a figurehead of the fire brigade and represents the values ​​of camaraderie and teamwork. "Networking is crucial in order to continue to put the importance of the fire brigade music in the spotlight in the future. We are an indispensable part of the fire brigade family," emphasized Zywietz with emphasis!

The importance of the fire brigade music stretches far beyond the sound: it promotes youth, is committed to forming democracy and fulfills a cultural mandate. "We can already inspire children for fire music music with creative musical approaches," Zywietz is convinced. The further development is a central concern, because digital teaching formats open up new ways of address.

And so the DFV invites everyone interested to find out about the exciting world of fire music music and to keep this tradition alive. Find out more about the next meeting of "DFV Direkt": On Wednesday, October 16, 2024, fire engineer Jochen Fries will report on important topics related to dangerous goods accidents - another exciting aspect of fire work!

(Matthias Oestreicher, DFV press team)