Bugles Across America

[Chadtuba]

Are any of you members of BAA or on your own do you play Taps for funerals or other memorial events? If so, would you mind sharing your expriences/wisdom concerning this particular topic? I'm seriously considering getting a good bugle and putting my name out there to help out. I'm sure all of you know, but just in case you don't, there is a shortage of buglers for military/first responder funerals. While I never served (medically unable to) I have the deepest respect for those that do and would like to help out in any way that I can. My father passed away a couple of years ago and was given a military honors funeral but the VFW had a recorded version of Taps. While I appreciate their effort and the fact that they were there I was more than a little disturbed at the tape being played through something that looked like a bugle.

For those that play what instrument do you use? I'm leaning towards getting one of the Getzen Heritage bugles but I'm also finding good information on the Kanstul bugles, which seem to be a few less dollars. This is however one case where I do not want to let money be the deciding factor over quality.

Thanks for the advice and help.

[SRanney]

I think my father (Capt., USNR ret.) has played Taps before at military funerals, but I don't know if the organization is Bugles Across America. Though he owns a bugle, I believe that he uses a regular trumpet (Bach stradivarius model) on which to play.

I have heard recorded Taps played at funerals before. While still moving, it does not compare to the honor of having that bugle call played live.

If you have the talent, this seems like a charity worthy of your time. Thanks for considering it.

[Chadtuba]

I do agree with you bloke, it is a lot of pressure and I promise that if I am unable to do it well I will not even consider putting my name out there for this. While I realize that I always have the potential to make a mistake I will not go out until I can do this in my sleep, upside down, forward & backwards & sideways, and any other way as I consider this to be one of the most important performances that anyone could do.

[bearphonium]

I tell you, this is something I could never do. I get way too choked up. That is why I chose rifle squad for our honor guard. You're away from everyone else, and only 6 guys know you're crying instead of 30.

[Carroll]

I have played taps for MANY, many funerals. After my students (mostly scouts) learn of this, they also volunteer. It is a nerve racking experience, but well worth it when the family expresses their appreciation for your efforts. I play a lot more bagpipes (Amazing Grace) these days, but still get an occasional call for taps. I use a trumpet and play in G... the high notes are lower that way.

I say... do it!

[tofu]

When we've done this for local veterans we have sent a small 10 person group (when possible) to play a couple of pieces and then for taps we use two guys. One up front to play first and then one hidden at a distance to do the soft echo. I am moved every time we do it. It is a fitting tribute and send off.