Elizabeth- In the early part of the war, once the bands
quit playing before a battle it's my understanding that the men were used as stretcher bearers and hospital orderlies until it was over. However, later on I think everyone fought due to critical manpower shortages. Many bands were disbanded after the first year, although the band of the 7th Va hung on at least until 1863. Photos of the day show a variety of brass horns, fifes, and drummers in most of the regimental bands.