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The "Pirate"
Marching Band program began in 1974, under the direction of Mr.
Anthony Pappalardo, performing for school pep rallies and football
games. Most of the musicians had been playing their instruments for
just two years. In spite of this, the enthusiasm and determination
of both the students and staff resulted in the band becoming one of
Mercer County's top bands in its first season.
Besides supporting
the school and community at football games and other functions, the
band began competing extensively. Over the next two decades, the
Pirate Marching Band garnered many championships and numerous music,
percussion, and colorguard awards on the competition and parade
circuits. In 2000, the band’s size was cut in half with the split
into High School North and High School South. The band persevered
through the division, continued its path of excellence and won the
Group I Open State Championship. In 2004, the band experienced
substantial growth and resumed competing as a Group II, the largest
band since 1999.
In 2005-06, the
first season under the leadership of Mr. Scott Collins, the
band showcased “Ghost Train” and took First Place in USSBA Regional,
States, and All-States, winning many special awards along the way,
including: Best Visual/Overall Effect, Best Music, and Best
Colorguard.
In 2006-2007, the
band unveiled one of its most challenging field shows, “Nightmares”,
again winning numerous special awards including a first place for
the Colorguard at All-States. The band was invited to play at the
first annual USSBA National Championship held at the US Naval
Academy, Annapolis, Maryland.
The touring
tradition began with the Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival in 1976
and has continued throughout the years - Walt Disney World, Florida;
Toronto, Canada; the Springfield Festival of Bands, New York;
Washington DC; and West Virginia. In Spring 2006, the band toured
Walt Disney World, where it participated in Magic Music Days,
recorded music at Disney’s studio and paraded down Main Street,
Magic Kingdom. The band has performed for many dignitaries such as
President George W. Bush, Vice-Presidents Al Gore and Dan Quayle, NJ
Governors Brendan Byrne and Christine Todd Whitman and NJ
Congresswoman Millicent Fenwick.
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