Turmmusik im 19. Jahrhundert in Littau
Watchtower Music in the 19th Century in Litovel

Summary/Abstract: The study deals with the tower masters in Litovel (Moravia) in their last period of activity, i. e. 19th century. The tower musicians were acting there from about 1566. They were associated, like in other towns, in artisan corporations. The main person, paid by municipal authorities, was the tower master, who employed a journeyman and some helpers (guards), and also educated some apprentices. During the 19th century, three musicians worked, one after another, as the tower masters. From the end of the 18th century to 1811, it was Franz Josef Schiebel, then, from 1811 to 1841, Ignaz Bartl (1777-?), and finally, from 1841 to 1866, Josef Jiránek (1800-1885). From the practical point of view, they were important as watchmen, i. e. they announced time or danger by means of a short Intrada. Their performing activities in the sphere of secular music enriched musical life, they played both from the town hall tower, and at dances, as well as within other occasions. However, the significant sphere of their performances was also the temple music within masses in the St. Mark's parish church. The educational activities were required only from the tower master as a part of his duty, and it contributed to the continuity of musical life in the town. The above mentioned musical activities of tower masters contributed to the cultural life not only in the 19th century but during the whole three hundred year period of their activities in the town.

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