Face the Music

An American expression from the early 19th century, though a British periodical uses a version of it as far back as 1774. No single documented source explains where it comes from, though several theories circulate. One points to theatre, performers literally facing the orchestra pit while battling stage fright. Another cites military tradition, disgraced soldiers "drummed out" of their regiment to the sound of their own regimental band. A third, less convincing theory involves 18th-century church musicians facing public criticism from a gallery. None has been confirmed over the others.