Vineland High School South

2880 E Chestnut Avenue

Vineland, NJ  08361

(856) 794-6800  x2539

History


What began in 1931 as a subgroup of the Engineers' Club, the Marching Band at Vineland High School has seen many changes. In 1932, the band wore Varsity Jackets and beanies for uniforms. In 1936 came Professor Enrico Serra and the first official band uniform that included a flashy cape. The 1940's began the tradition of "snake dances" throughout the city with new red, gray, and gold uniforms. In 1943, the All-girl Drum and Bugle Corps was introduced. This enemble was disbanded when a fire destroyed all of their equipment. The next several decades are a little sketchy (please feel free to fill us in on the gaps). In the 1970's John Parks became the Band Director. During his tenure, the size of everything grew in Vineland. Graduating classes around 1000, and a band that numbered around 200 were common. So were weekend competitions and spring trips that took the band throughout the east coast. While the numbers decreased, the tradition did not. In 1988, William McDevitt was hired as the new Band Director. He has maintained the traditions that began 85 years ago and continues to lead the band to this day.