Battlefield Signals

Simes¹ & later, von Steuben² have listed specific drum signals for maneuvering on the field.  However, there is great debate of how musical signals were actually used in the field. A number of signals which while useful for training or on parade, they certainly would be less than practical for combat situations.  Anyone with military experience will attest what is written in the manuals does not always translate effectively to the battlefield.  Regardless, Samuel Dewees³ notes in his journal:

In going into battle it was customary for the Drum and Fife Majors to send a Field Drummer and Field Fifer along and among their duties this one, the beating a signal tune for an 'advance,' another as a 'retreat' and a third as a 'parley,' etc.

A careful reading of von Steuben & Dewees seems to indicate there was no standardized tune for the Advance & Withdraw signals.  Tunes appear to be chosen on a Regiment by Regiment basis so signals could be used to command Regiment sized elements independently on the battlefield. 

Returns & muster rolls clearly indicate that Warner's Regiment had musicians during the entirety of their service.  General John Stark mentions in his memoirs⁴ "Colonel Warner's drums at the same time gave notice of his approach" at the engagement at Bennington, which we are taking as evidence the Regiment has used drums on the battlefield. 

Based the available information, Warner's Regiment (re-created) has decided to utilize minimal drum & fife signals for simple Company/Battalion level maneuvers, particularly when deploying in linear formations.  Clicking on the call will play the beat or tune associated with the field maneuver.