The drum was used as a communication device during the time of war.

There were different drumbeats for different activities - such as a beat to perform camp duties, a beat to march, a beat for a call to arms, even a beat for loading and firing weapons.

Drummers were usually young boys and were trained by the drum-major who supervised the drummers. They were given the same pay as a private.

The uniform of the drummer was very fancy and bright, so that he would be easy to locate on the field of battle by the officers.