Taps: The American Military Bugle Call for Lights Out and Remembrance

Origins and early history

The melody now known as "Taps" was composed in 1862 by Union Army officer and brigade commander Daniel Butterfield while his unit was encamped in Virginia. Butterfield revised an existing bugle call to produce the softer, more lyrical phrase that replaced louder traditional signals. The tune was initially called "Extinguish Lights" and was meant to signal the end of the day. Over time the shorter name "Taps" came into common use; the precise reason for this name and its etymology remain uncertain.

Musical characteristics and words

As a bugle call, "Taps" is written in a simple, modal style that fits the limited harmonic range of valveless bugles. It is typically performed slowly and with restraint to convey solemnity. Lyrics beginning with "Day is done; Gone the sun" were added after the melody became popular, but the words are not required: many performances are instrumental. The tune can be rendered by a single bugler, a military band, or recorded tracks, and variations in tempo and ornamentation occur among services and units.

Uses and ceremonial importance

In U.S. military practice, "Taps" is an essential element of funerals and memorial services. It often follows ceremonial gun salutes and accompanies the folding and presentation of a national flag to the next of kin. The call is also sounded each evening on many bases as a formal end to the duty day. Because of its emotional resonance, "Taps" is now widely recognized by the public and is used at civic memorials and moments of silence.

Customs, variations, and notable facts

• When a lone bugler is not available, an "echo" or recorded version may be used to approximate the effect.
• Although primarily associated with the U.S., similar short signals are used in other nations for lights out or funerary purposes; some countries have adopted the melody or comparable gestures of respect.
• The melody’s simple structure allows it to be played on valveless instruments and sung by groups or choirs when words are appended.

For further study of its role among military signals see discussions of the bugle call tradition, accounts of its use at military funerals, and biographical material about Daniel Butterfield.