Over twenty years ago in 1984, we went on to the football field with a total 15 musicians and Color Guard. We were the Spring Valley High School Marching Band back then. In 1988, the Spring Valley High School Marching Band Combined with the Ramapo High School Marching Band to form the East Ramapo Marching Band. Since 1984, the band participated in an average of nine football games, ten competitions, six parades, and five "other" performances each season. Thirty performances a year over twenty years equals six hundred performances. Over 200 awards including three championships, fill our rooms. The New York State's Governors Inaugural, numerous television appearances including Good Day New York, CBS Greenwich Polo Match, A command performance with J C Chasez before 50,000 people at Giant Stadium, as well as a full length movie, and of course, our standing ovation at the world famous Apollo theater this past may are some of the many boasts of our organization.
Our Band has become the leader of "uniqueness: in show performance amongst all bands. We are usually the most anticipated band to watch. Many parents, teachers, and students are interested in the "secrets" to our success. THERE ARE NO SECRETS. Hard work is the key to our achievement. There are many "traditions" to our band as well as rules and policies that form our program.
Our Program is designed to help students learn and practice ways to maximize their achievement in the classroom. In this "micro society" that encompasses students from all over the East Ramapo community, students learn to work together with an emphasis on community spirit that has been demonstrated with our performances and fund-raising for charitable organizations.
We do not guarantee students the "richness" of a "championship," however students will find more wealth in a program designed to make champions in life. We have grown from 15 members to 150 members. Our numbers boast commitment. Let us enjoy the tradition, pride, and achievement of the famous East Ramapo High School Marching Band.
Sincerely,
Mr. Michael E. Smith
East Ramapo Marching Band Director
1984- present
