Bugle

• According to Vegetius, orders were passed in the Roman Army using basic signals on Horns, so that these calls could be heard above the sound of Battle.
• The Bugle was still in use until recently, to pass signals on a Military Base, Battlefield or Naval Ship.

Types of Horn

• The Tuba
  • A straight Trumpet, about 4 feet (1.2m) long.
• The Cornu or Cornum
  • Played by the Cornicen (Horn-Blower).
  • This was a longer Trumpet, about 10 feet long, bent into a circle and worn on the shoulder by the Cornicen. It was made of Brass.
• The Buccina
  • Made of Brass.
  • Played by the Buccinator.
  • This resembled the Cornu, but was slightly longer at 11-12 feet (3.5m) long.

Types of Calls

• Calls were given to:
  • Charge
  • Retreat
  • Assemble
  • Disperse
  • Mount (cavalry)
  • Dismount (cavalry)
• The ‘Classicum’ was a particular call sounded only in the presence of the General.