What largely explained the rise in brass bands' popularity between the 1860s and 1910s?

The significant rise in brass bands' popularity between the 1860s and 1910s is closely linked to the presence of decommissioned soldiers returning home after the Civil War. Many of these soldiers were trained musicians who had played in military bands during the war. Upon their return, they sought to continue their musical pursuits and formed or joined brass bands in their communities. This transition facilitated a burgeoning interest in brass band music, as these groups became a key form of entertainment and social engagement within towns and cities across the United States.

The connection between decommissioned soldiers and brass bands also reflects the broader social context of the time—bands often served as a means of expression, camaraderie, and healing for many veterans. Additionally, the existing infrastructure to support these brass bands, including instruments and the practice of musicianship fostered during military service, provided a ready-made environment for their growth, making the impact of returning soldiers particularly pivotal to the brass band phenomenon during this era.