The United States Merchant Marine Academy Band of Kings Point, New York, performs for the opening ceremonies of the Canadian National Exposition in Toronto on August 18, 2007.
As a member of the band from 1977 - 1981, I can assure all that there were no "core" members of the band. In fact quite the opposite. In any given year, only the seniors (1st class midshipmen) and freshmen (4th class) were there the whole year. We spent half of our 3rd and 2nd class years (i.e., sophomore and junior years) out at sea.
The band no dount maintains a core group of musicians upon which additional players are added whrn required for ceremonial events like this one. The band has been to Canada several times now and is a great ambassador for the US there. With Mr. Force near retiremet age now, lets us hope that the traditions he has created for this band will pass on to a new director in the near future. This band is unique among US military bands for its style, drill and professionalism.
This little known US band performs in the manner of a British Royal Marines band. The style of the drum major and the stick drill of the drummers clearly show that influence. the director, Kenneth R. Force has maintained this band for many years now. His fascination with British military bands has been responsible for the distinct style of play that the US Merchant Marine Band has. The band has to formed anew every year with new Merchant Marine Members.
The U.S.M.M.A. is the only federal academy authorized to fly battle streamers on its flag. During WWII, 142 midshipmen lost their lives while serving on merchant ships.
The U.S. Merchant Marine Academy is only federal service academy to have a regimental band comprised entirely of midshipmen. Its members must complete a rigorous course of study as well as their band duties.
As a member of the band from 1977 - 1981, I can assure all that there were no "core" members of the band. In fact quite the opposite. In any given year, only the seniors (1st class midshipmen) and freshmen (4th class) were there the whole year. We spent half of our 3rd and 2nd class years (i.e., sophomore and junior years) out at sea.
johnechickering 1 year ago
The band no dount maintains a core group of musicians upon which additional players are added whrn required for ceremonial events like this one. The band has been to Canada several times now and is a great ambassador for the US there. With Mr. Force near retiremet age now, lets us hope that the traditions he has created for this band will pass on to a new director in the near future. This band is unique among US military bands for its style, drill and professionalism.
waterloo3 3 years ago
This little known US band performs in the manner of a British Royal Marines band. The style of the drum major and the stick drill of the drummers clearly show that influence. the director, Kenneth R. Force has maintained this band for many years now. His fascination with British military bands has been responsible for the distinct style of play that the US Merchant Marine Band has. The band has to formed anew every year with new Merchant Marine Members.
waterloo3 3 years ago
semper fiedelis
alexpointfan 4 years ago
The U.S.M.M.A. is the only federal academy authorized to fly battle streamers on its flag. During WWII, 142 midshipmen lost their lives while serving on merchant ships.
kerryscattergood 4 years ago
The U.S. Merchant Marine Academy is only federal service academy to have a regimental band comprised entirely of midshipmen. Its members must complete a rigorous course of study as well as their band duties.
kerryscattergood 4 years ago