Post by Rhonda on Oct 17, 2007 3:19:53 GMT -5
"FACE THE MUSIC"
The source of this phrase is generally thought to have been theatrical, referring to an actor who, however nervous, must come boldly on stage before his public; thus literally facing the music, or the orchestra in the pit below the footlights. But other explanations have been offered. Some ascribe it to military origin. If so, its first meaning may have been simply to take one's place in the line of assembly, facing the band. Or it may have referred to a cavalry mount that must be trained to show no restiveness when the band starts to play. Or it may have referred to a cavalryman dishonorably dismissed from service, who it's said, when drummed out of camp would not only be facing the music of the drums but also would be facing the rear end of his horse!
The source of this phrase is generally thought to have been theatrical, referring to an actor who, however nervous, must come boldly on stage before his public; thus literally facing the music, or the orchestra in the pit below the footlights. But other explanations have been offered. Some ascribe it to military origin. If so, its first meaning may have been simply to take one's place in the line of assembly, facing the band. Or it may have referred to a cavalry mount that must be trained to show no restiveness when the band starts to play. Or it may have referred to a cavalryman dishonorably dismissed from service, who it's said, when drummed out of camp would not only be facing the music of the drums but also would be facing the rear end of his horse!