The Evolution of Social Mission of a Brass Band Conductor under Martial Law: Comparative Analysis of the Experience of 1939–1945 and 2022–2026

Abstract

The purpose of the article is to establish, based on a comparative analysis, the transformation of the role of the conductor from a purely musical director to a moderator of public emotions and a volunteer leader. The methodological basis of the study was: a comparative-historical method (comparison of the functions of the conductor in two time planes); an existential-communicative method (characterisation of the conductor as a public leader, coordinator of value dialogue and volunteer); content analysis of the digital environment (study of the media presence of brass bands in social networks); axiological analysis of musical content (research of the repertoire from the point of view of values (patriotism, sustainability). Scientific novelty: this study is the first to undertake a comparative analysis of the professional activities of bandmasters from the mid-20th century and contemporary military and municipal conductors in Ukraine. This has enabled an analysis of how conducting strategies have adapted to the unprecedented challenges of full-scale war, viewed through the lens of historical events. For the first time, the phenomenon of the digital transformation of military musical culture has been investigated, where the conductor acts not only as the leader of the ensemble, but also as a media manager and content creator, amplifying the spirit of resistance through global digital platforms. Conclusions. Today, the conductor’s role has evolved from that of a mere conduit for state ideology (as in 1939–1945) to that of an active media manager and cultural diplomat. Thanks to digitalisation and social media, the orchestra has ceased to be merely a linear instrument of propaganda, transforming into a source of viral content that shapes the global image of resistance. This transforms the orchestra from a mechanism of propaganda into a living instrument of cultural diplomacy and direct engagement of international support.