(Old Comrades) is one of the most famous German military marches in the world. Composed around 1889 by Carl Teike in Ulm, it has become a staple of brass band repertoire, transcends its military origins, and is frequently played at international sporting events and festivals. The Story Behind the Song
Alte Kameraden auf dem Marsch durchs LandHalten Freundschaft felsenfest und treu die Hand.Ob in Not oder in Gefahr,Stets zusammen an der Hand,Wie es früher einmal war. (Old Comrades) is one of the most famous
Haben wir die Jugendzeit auch längst verbannt,Bleiben wir doch Freunde, fest an der Hand.Alte Kameraden, das ist unser Stolz,Aus dem gleichen Schlage, aus dem gleichen Holz. Why It Endures Haben wir die Jugendzeit auch längst verbannt,Bleiben wir
The march is celebrated for its balance of a powerful, driving opening and a melodic, lyrical "trio" section. Unlike many marches from that era, it focuses on the and shared history rather than aggression or specific conflict, which helped it regain popularity globally after WWII. When Teike first presented the score to his
When Teike first presented the score to his bandmaster, he was told: "We have enough marches. Put this one in the stove!" Fortunately, Teike ignored the advice. He named it "Alte Kameraden" as a tribute to the fellow soldiers he was leaving behind upon finishing his service.
Ganz egal, ob es stürmt oder schneit,Alte Kameraden sind stets bereit.Wenn die Trompete ruft,Ziehen sie hinaus,Alte Kameraden kennen keinen Schmerz.