Established in 1817, the West Point Band is the Army’s oldest band and the oldest continuously-operating unit at West Point, tracing its lineage to the field musicians assigned by George Washington when he established the post in 1778. Since that time, the band has evolved into one of the most capable and versatile professional performing groups in the world. Through its 2,600 annual missions, the West Point Band continues to serve the nation as a piece of America’s living history.
Read More + HISTORY TIMELINEThe West Point Band is proud to release its recording of the Roy Harris Symphony for Band, a monumental work commissioned as part of the United States Military Academy's sesquicentennial celebration in 1952. Through this recording, the West Point Band invites listeners to explore and appreciate the significance of this iconic composition, shining a light on a lesser-known masterpiece in American musical history.
Continue readingThe graduation parade is the most involved Academy pass in review of the year, in which the entire Corps of Cadets convenes on the Plain to witness the transfer of seniority from the graduating class, known as the “firsties,” to the junior class, the “cows.”
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In 1952, the West Point Band commissioned 13 new works for military band in celebration of West Point’s 150th anniversary.
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In anticipation of the band’s official recognition as a unit by Congress in 1817, musical life at West Point had evolved to the point of not only a full-time band, but also an appointed Teacher of Music to train and lead them.
Continue readingFrom its inception in 1817 until 1974, the West Point Band and all cadet musical activities were led by a series of innovative and dedicated musicians under the title of Teacher of Music.
Continue readingExplore this digital collection of items that were displayed at the West Point Museum's exhibit commemorating the West Point Band's 200 years of service to the Academy and the nation.
Click hereIf you talk to any cadet about life at West Point, you are bound to hear about quiet mornings interrupted by the sound of a lone bugler playing reveille at 0530. Bugle calls have sounded across West Point since the days of the American Revolution.
Continue readingThere's perhaps no name more auspicious in the wind band world than that of Percy Grainger, whose monumental work Lincolnshire Posy represents to many the pinnacle of craftsmanship for wind ensemble.
Continue readingThe history of two Army Football favorites: “Slum and Gravy” and “Gridiron Grenadiers”
Continue readingThroughout its over 200-year legacy, the West Point Band has performed for some incredible historical figures, including American leaders, and monarchs, dignitaries, and figureheads from across the globe.
Continue readingThere are so many fascinating and noteworthy leaders in the band’s history, all of whom have incredible legacies we can’t wait to share with you. But for now, let’s introduce you to the band’s sixth Teacher of Music, Charles Rehm.
Continue readingUnlike most military bands where musicians rotate from one band to the next, West Point Band members will work together at West Point for their entire careers. So inevitably, there will be some friendly pranks and fond memories along the way.
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