DESCRIPTION:
A song entitled "The New Bath" found in John Playford's dance books from the 17th century is thought to be the origin. However, it is also suggested that it was derived from the Dutch march "Mars van de jonge Prins van Friesland" ("March of the young Prince of Friesland", referring to Prince Johan Willem Friso); the first notes of this tune are similar. The march was introduced to Britain during the reign of the Dutch Stadholder-King William III. Today it is played at special events in the Netherlands, as a musical tribute to the Ministry of Defence and as a substitute for the Wilhelmus in absence of the monarch.
The first known association of the tune with the regiment is in 1706 as 'The Granadeer's March', and the first version printed with lyrics from around 1750. It was a popular tune throughout the 18th and 19th centuries, and remains so until this day. During Operation Market Garden, a few men of the British 1st Airborne Division are said to have played this song using a flute and a few helmets and sticks as drums.
It is played annually at the Trooping the Colour in London. Additionally, the first eight measures are played during the ceremony when the Escort for the Colour marches into position on Horse Guards Parade.