History
Founded in 1919, the Harvard Band's original purpose was to support Harvard Football spirit and to entertain the fans at Soldiers Field on the gridiron during halftime. Although support of football in the fall (and hockey in the winter) remain top priorities, the Band's activities, diversity, and community visibility and service have grown considerably.
The Band serves as the official university spirit unit, welcoming special guests and celebrities to Cambridge as well as encouraging alumni to raise song to Harvard at virtually all university and alumni occasions. Other components of the Band include two active Jazz Bands, a Wind Ensemble (specializing in the performance of twentieth-century concert music), herald trumpets, and ceremonial ensembles as required for university events.
The unique spirit, creativity, and camaraderie that typifies the Band can be directly credited to its tradition as an organization entirely organized and operated by students. I hope your visit is both enjoyable and informative.
Illegitimum non carborundum,
Tom Everett
Director
Marching through the Years
by Holly Blumenthal '94
and Dave Strong '96
(amended by various staff members since '95)
1910's | 1920's | 1930's | 1940's | 1950's | 1960's | 1970's | 1980's | 1990's | 2000's
The Leroy Anderson Homepage!
Read more about one of the Band's most famous directors.