Virginia International Tattoo All-American Chorus
Norfolk, Virginia
April 29 – May 2, 2011
Presented annually in Norfolk, Virginia, the Virginia International Tattoo is an exhibition of marching bands, massed pipes and drums, drill teams, gymnasts, Scottish dancers, choirs and more. Each year, a cast of over 800 artists from several countries creates an unforgettable spectacle under one roof for four breathtaking performances. The Virginia International Tattoo is the largest show of its kind in the United States. Choirs from across the country are invited to join together to form the 2011 Virginia International Tattoo All-American Chorus – a powerful force of singers to accompany bands at this world-renowned Tattoo. This will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience you will never forget!
History of the Tattoo
In the old days, field musicians were vital to commanders as the sole means of relaying orders during battle. For marching, the bands kept the company or regiment in proper cadence, and served to beat the daily duty calls and ceremonies such as Reveille, Taps, the General, the Assembly and the Retreat. The distinctive and colorful uniforms were necessary to distinguish them easily on the battlefields, and were often the reverse color of those worn by the line soldiers.
The term "tattoo" derives from the cries of the 17th and 18th century Low Country innkeepers, who, as the fifes and drums of the local regiment signaled a return to quarters would cry, "Doe den tap toe!" -"Turn off the taps!" The sound of the "taps" caused the innkeeper's customers to depart and return to their barracks. The word "tattoo" evolved over time, and refers to what developed as a ceremonial performance of military music by massed bands today.
