Vol 11 No 3 i The Ancient Times Published by The Company of Fifers & Drummers, Inc. M t MHHIMH VOL. XI No.3 One Dollar and Twenty-Five Cents WINTER 1984 $26,000.00 Grant Approved, Governor Makes Presentation at Westbrook's Silver Combined Mariners Dazzle Crowd with Anniversary Muster Dave Clark Honored Virtuosity and Class Muster Features As Founding Father bY. .Phil Truitl Before Big Crowd Thanks to the efforts of Bill Pace, by Phil Truitl Carl Balestracci, Freddie Bruder and the full cast of both Ancient and Swiss Blessed with beautiful, crisp Fall New Mariners-the full and awesome scope England weather, the 25th Westbrook of talent in these corps is no longer a Muster was truly a memorable occasion: secret! On Friday evening of the Gathered were 36 invited corps pl us Westbrook Muster on August 24th these another dozen who joined in the parade combined corps produced a slick and for this very unique occasion. Connec delightful performance of music that ticut Governor William O'Neill was on was as noteworthy for its content and had to present a $26,000 grant to The structure as it was for its precise Company for its new Head execution. quarters/Museum project as well as to The anticipation of the audience was enjoy the music and festivities. more than fulfilled as the Mariners roll ed off one sterling effort after another Dave Clark Honored in a tight, well disciplined program. Saturday brought many special There was highly moving Chantey sing awards and tributes, but none more ing led by Cliff Haslam, concert calibre moving and deserved than those directed flute and fife solos, folk music, Swiss J to Westbrook DC drummer Dave Clark who was the impetus behind the foun stick fencing, beautiful and stirring ar President of THE COMPANY l<:ldrick Arsenaulttbanks Connecticut's Gover ding of this muster a quarter of a cen rangements by Roy Watrous and Ed nor Bill O'Neill for the $26,000 contribution to the Head tury ago. Dave had gifts bestowed on Olson and, of course, the superlative fif. quarters/Museum/Library which was announced at the 1984 Westbrook- Muster. him by his own corps, The Company ing and drumming efforts of both Dodie McGrath of the host Westbrook Drum Corps, and a member of THE and both the Swiss and Ancient Mariner corps. It was, in short, a COMPANY'S Executive Committee, applauds the scene. Th~ contribution Mariners. Among these were a beautiful Vol 11 No 3
!YC UC IOW 11,c or l C V rcuost C talent within the Mariner ranks. memora t ive plaque, a hardwood Polish and Precision dr..imstick rack and a set of scicks. Dave T he Mariners, celebrating their 25ch was visably touched and received a well appearance at the Westbrook Muster, deserved , standing ovation for his vision dedicated the performance to Timmy and dedication in conceiving what has Emanuelson, their former bass drum evolved into our premier gathering each mer who passed away this past April. year. This was an evening in which the nor Throughout the weekend there was an mally bawdy air o f the Mariners was air of sheer electricity and warmth as o ld replaced by a serio us dedication to the friends renewed past memories and wealth of music to be performed. The gathered to play music thac thundered "Brig Rat" and Boarding Party were from the muster field to the Sea Horse very much in evidence, buc rescrained Tavern and chroughout the screets of for this special performance. Westbrook. It was the place to be and T he informative and often humorous tents began lo spring up as early as Fri• narrative was ably handled by Carl day morning as early birds arrived to Balestracci wbo kepi the evening mov claim their choice locations. By parade ing at a brisk pace. cime the full encampment provided a Swiss Outstanding colo rful a nd authentic background to Dave Clark, second from right, receives recognition from Company Presidenc The Swiss Ma riners, dedicated co the perform.ances that foll owed. Eldrick Arsenaull while Lee Zudeima, Westbrook, Bill Pace, Ancient Mariners, preserving the Basel style of drumming Dynamic Field of Corps and to bringing American style fifing and Freddy Bruder of the Swiss Mariners look on in approval. Dodie McGrath also of the Westbrook Corps is at the right. Photo by Mal Hinckley If you are a regular A ncient Times and drumming to Europe were excep reader, there is lillle that I can add to tional. Banked with champions in both the accolades of past Westbrook their fife and drum lines, the Swiss clear Ninth Annual Jaybirds Day Held musters. T he English language simply ly stood out as premier musicians in goes so far. Coming off the spectacular their own right ....on e of the vivid at Company Headquarters Friday evening pageant of the flag lessons brought forth a c Westbrook. ceremonies, Liberty Pole, che joint All evening both corps exhibited It was a beautiful day as che Jay-Birds that the party was still going scrong at Mariner concert and the jollificacion in unbelievable precision in their drumm and their friends gathered at The Com 2 am. It was a most successful ga ther to tf1e wee hours of the morning-most ing with both che snare and bass lines pany's headquarters building in ing, both socially and financ ially. awoke Saturday wich chrobbing heads sounding as a single drummer even on lvoryton o n Occober 6. Jodie Bedard, (Ancient Mariners) did and less chan complete recall of che prior the most complex of arrangements by They came from near and far to yoeman d uty at the door, making sure evening's events. Roy Watrous and Ed Olsen. renew friendships, talk about "the good that all the friends of the Jay-Birds paid However, come parade time everyo ne Special Highlights old days" and join in the Jollification. their way, even to the point of going was in line and playing wich a spedal In a concerc o f chis exceptio na l na It was the first time that Jay-Birds Day downstairs to collect from his mother flare generated by the 25th anniversary ture, it is d ifficult if not unj ust 10 cite was held ac our new building and for and the bartenders. and fueled by the always enchusiastic individuals because every musician on many, it was their first look at our new Barcenders Roger Clark and Lefty crowd. the field was a n integral part of the headquarters, museum/ Ii brary See Jaybirds, page 4 Sec Westbrook, page 12 s heer enjoyment and musical expertise building-they were impressed. The at which were superbly realized. However, tendees were from all seccors of d rum Major Improvements Under Way at the fifework of Skip Healy, John Ciaglia corps activity-Ancienc , modern, a nd and John Benoit bears note as rarely is yes, even marching and maneuvering. Headquarters Building one privileged LO hear the calibre of They came fro m Connecticut, New music they brought fo rth at Westbrook. York, New Jersey, Maryland , No rth Representatives from eleven corps gram has an expiratio n dace of May 15, Cliff Haslam and cohorts were in great Carolina, California, Massachusetts, were in a ctenda nce ac the November 3rd 1985 and it is importa nt that all the work voice all evening and their opening ver Rhode Island and even, Brooklyn. They open meet ing called by the Build ing co be done with this grant be completed sion of Whoop Jamboree and finale of came for a good cime and they had it. Commictee for the purpose o f by that dace. A Parting Glass were especially moving The commi11ee had assured thac all che establishing priorities on the im Chairman Bill Gallagher announced and meaningful. necessities for a good party were provid provements to be made wich the recent that the Saybrook Ronfing Company See Mariners, page 12 ed and this was confirmed by the face ly acquired $26,000 State Grant. The See Improvements, page 4
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Page 2 WINTER 1984 TF,e Aneient 1i111es
market for a used barrel bass drum and there are probably people out there in snare drums. We prefer Eames drums, the Ancient World who have pictures and would consider two basket cases if and articles of our corps that I would The Ancient 1imes the shells and hoops are in good appreciate as being part of our Archives PublhhNI by Tbr Company of Flf,ro 4 Drumm•n condition. committee of our corps. All that is h,(', necessary is the picture and/or article The Company of Filers and Qrummers is Sincerely yours, with the name and date of the pub incorporated in the state of Connecticut as a Hicksville, N.Y. William A. Stavey lication from which it was taken. charitable and educational, non•proli! Fort Penn Fife & Drum Corps I am sure future members would ap lnsMution and is officially and legall~· recognized as such by the U.S. Treasury Editor: (71 7) 992-764 I preciate looking back on some of this Department. The Company's purposes are to Thank you for the reminder that my collected material. If anyone out there perpetuate the tradition or Early American subscription is expiring. Enclosed is a marttal music, to encourage greater in our Ancient World would be in knowledge of the historical significance or fife money order for $7.00 for two more Windsor, CT terested in forming some sort of a ser and drum music and to foster the spirit of years. vice like this I would be happy to assist. fellowship among the fifers and drummers I look forward to receiving it each everywhere. Dear Moe: Any feedback would be appreciated time especially since they up-graded the I have enjoyed receiving my copy of to the undersigned. paper stock... it appears clearer and EDITOR...... Moc Schoos The Ancient Times for some time now In The Ancient Spirit, EDITORIAL STAFF...... Ed Olsen sharper, both type and photos, and of and must admit I am under the impres Dick McNally Bill Pace, Phil Truill course, keeps me up to date on the do sion 1hat we all have a sense of vanity Sgt. Daniel Bissell F&D Corps ART DIRECTOR ...... Bob Riley ings of the Ancients. about us where we enjoy seeing a pic PHOTO ED ITOR...... Mal Hinckley Sincerely, ture of ourselves or our corps in print. ADVERT. MGR ...... Dodie McGrath Ray Fardy My intention in writing to the Editor CIRCUL. MGR ...... Judy Barrows BUSINESS MGR ...... Moe Schoos is if anyone has had the idea of form CORRESPONDENTS ing some sort of clearing house for pic NORTHEAST: Dave Boddie, An Ferrante, West Hartford, CT tures or articles that may appear in local Jack O'Brien, Ron DaSilva, Scott Dear Editor: news media that pertain to a certain Greens1ree1. Sorry that forgot about my corps that may be located in another SOUTH: Ann Feder, Bill Krug subscription-Thanks for the reminder. area that may never have a chance of MIDWEST: Bill Baugh. Mark Logsdon Glad to hear that Deep River has clean knowing that their picture appeared in EUROPE: Alfons Greider, Robert Goute, ed up its act. Things were gettting out the local paper. Anne Marie Bruder. • of hand down there. This year my hus Could we in some way establish a clip band and I decided that we would not ping service that would benefit all of our T H£ ANCl£NT TIMt.S, lht ncwipap,er 111 THI; COMPANY O f-· FIFERS Afll[) DJHJ!i-1Mf.K$, IS go down to the field because we were so corps? For example, I have several PUBLISHED QUARTERLY TO Kf.EP \U•MIU'R'> A NU disgusted with what went on down there THE PUBLIC JNFORMEO ABOUT A nt1c111 Urnn1 Co1p\ newspaper articles and pictures of out 1(11v111n and 1ub.t«11 rt"l11cd Lhtr«o last year. We have been coming down of-town corps that their Archives com Tht nt"'1ptp(t rn«1uu11n 1h, rrpfodU<"111m ..:ir ;I\ ntH\· from Hartford to the muster for many ('(:lpyu1,hLed Conlcnu . 8yl1nn mwl be rt11111rd •nd 1hr crC'd1: mittee might appreciate and in turn 1h0\l.ld rc•d '"from The Ancicni Timu, ll'lr q uartrrl)' years because my father, Charles L. nc-w-spepcr of THE COMPANY OF FIF'ERS ANO DRUMMERS." Ridgeway was in the old Essex Corps in The opintOru oprn.K'd in .tlanod 11t1c!c-1 1u not nt<:~u.uity 1930-35. thow of Tht AnC'it:nt Timc..i, M<111ion o f• prod,m KrviC< or prof""lonaJ In our (olumns is not ro bt ron,idtttd an Next year we will be back again and tndort.nntnl by TUE COMPANY , will be happy to stay the whole day and D;rca all mail 10 P.O. Beu, )II, Whlbrook.. 0. $end EDITORIAL tdi1on&I mactria!-t:,~ doublt ir1aeC'd, upper and lower enjoy the muster, like in the old days. cuc- 10 Moe S(hoo1 For re.uons C1f 1patt &nd clarity. m&trriW may br C'dilC'd. For Adver1i11111.
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WINTER 1984 Page 3 The Ancient limes
forged the FOB Corps that was to Harold Ripperger dominate the New York FDC scene for Ancients Speak With the passing of Harold Ripperger more than thirty years. on October 11, 1984, we suffered the Credited with being one of the men Your Piece loss of the last panicipanl in what had to introduce the art of rudimental bass by Phil Truilt once been drum corps' mos, illustrious drumming to New York State, Harold At the last Company Meeting in trio. was a successful individual contestant Shortly after separation from the and went on to judge as well as teach. April, my motion to create an Ancient Honor Roll/ Hall of Fame type concept WWII Army, Harold's position in the On his 70th birthday he was elected Lan for The Company Headquarters was banking profession propelled him into craft Man of the Year. He was pan of tabled for further discussion. I would a constant series of moves and reloca the great rudimental drum line for which tions that rarely allowed indulgence in " T he Kirks" became famous and helped like to hear your opinions and input on this subject. his early interest--rudimental bass drum import an Ancient Sound which had Historically, Ancient fifers and drum ming. " Hardly an activity for a banker, heretofore been restricted to the state of anyhow" some said. Connecticut. mers are rarely recognized for their ef forts ... until they are dead. It seems 10 He made his final move in 1982, and Harold's passing all but depletes the that a brief column in T he Ancicnr that was to Cheshire, CT.- a location ranks of the corps. Only his nephew, me Times is a paltry reward for the efforts that allowed a resumption of his old George's son, Phil continues to drum, these men ancj women have made to our HAROLD RIPPERGER 71 hobby. Soon thereafter, Hal joined the and he in a different idiom and in the Lancraft FDC, a unit which he had long distant clime of Florida. Ancient movement and to T he Com pany. Do you agree? Almost every BASS DRUMMER admired, and continued with them, in legitimate organization I know of makes LANCRAnFDC varying degrees of activity, until the very end. a point of honoring its leaders and OCTOBER 11, 1984 outstanding contributors. It was during an earlier time, however, and in a different location, My concept is to create an Ancient that he made his mark upon the drum Honor Roll comprised of any individual who has made outstanding contribu APRIL ALLYN SCOTT 24 ·· corps world. Harold joined Brooklyn's Chas. T. tions to The Company or to the better ment of Ancient fifing and drumming FIFER Kirk FDBC in September, 1933. In so 1ST MICHIGAN FDC doing, he followed in the footsteps of per se - both past and present. Drum corps activity will not enter the picture OCTOBER 22, 1984 his father August, the legendary "Pop Ripp", and preceded his brother as this is to be an Ancient Honor Roll. George, (with whom he would compose Every year a select committee of 8 fifers and drummers would select up to the now standard beat , "Paddy on the April Allyn Scott Handcar" ). Together with the Hansen ten candidates for entry 10 the honor roll. T he committee will be comprised April Allyn Scott died on October 22, orothers, who had helped organize t_he corps in 1899, and in company with the only of recognized and highly ·1984 at the early age of 24. She was a knowledgeable musicians so that each fifer in the First Michigan Colonial Fife eccentric J. Frank Martin and Connec ticut emigre Ed. Lemley, the Rippergers Harold Ripperger candidate will be fairly evaluated. There and Drum Corps from 1976 until will be no domination of any one corps September 1977 when she moved to on the body. Pennsylvania with her family. Her in Entrance to the honor roll will bring terest and love of history is what. led T.hank You an engraved plaque to the honoree as April to join the First Michigan Corps. Dear Fellow Ancients, to do. And last but not least, and best well as a listing on the master plaque at She accompanied the corps on its first I would like to take a minute to of all, he was "Daddy" which needs Company HQ. trip to the East Coast, a trip which in thank you all for your kindness to no explanation at at all. He was an That is my concept. No doubt you cluded a mini muster on the green in myself and my family upon the un incredibly thoughtful, caring man may have additional ideas. What I Guilford, Connecticut and the Battle of timely death of my Dad, Ray Arnow. who loved life and I feel rivile ed would like as many of ou as ossiblc Vol 11 No 3
u or , onncc cu an c a · o timely death of my Dad, Ray Arnow. who loved life, and I feel privileged would like as many of you as possible Monmouth Parade and Muster in New I was very lucky to have known him to have been able to be such a large to do is to write me with your thoughts, Jersey. The trip east was for her the as many different people. For a part of that life. He is missed so very suport or lack thereof for this wor realization of a dream. daughter to be a plumber's helper is much, but the comfort that your thwhile idea. The more evidence I have April is remembered by all who know unusual, but I was and I got to know words, cards, and actions have given of interest around the country the bet her as a quiet young woman who was him as a boss and a fellow worker. us makes this terrible loss a little ter we can ac1ivate chis new program in always smiling. It is with sadness and He was the director and bass drum easier to bear. Thank you again. 1985 and thereafter. You can write me sorrow that the Michigan corps reports mer of the Milford Volunteers and Geri Iliff at 16 Garabranl Street, Mendham, N.J. her passing, the first loss of a present or we worked together and played Milford Volunteers 07945. former member of that organization. together in something he truly loved We have many dedicated individuals in our Ancient world who deserve recognition - while they are alive to en Finding Fifes & Drums in Germany joy it. If you agree or if you disagree by Ralph Sweet send me a note and let's see what The Company really feels on this issue. For two weeks one August, we visited to Bildstock, a suburb of Saarbrucken Thanks! our son Bill Sweet (formerly Nathan to a village festival. This was the 3rd day Hale F & D) and his wife and son in Ger- of a weekend "Fest" and in the market many, where we were able to spend square a huge circus-style tent was set some of our time seeking out the Ger- up (Aluminum Frame) with all manner Fund Raising A Corp's Lifeline man fifers and drummers. They were of-German refreshments available, and by Phil Truitt easier to find when we found the pro- a stage at one end. The tables an had In an effort to assist all corps within lose the payday. Naturally, the decision per word for it: "Spielmannszug". names of Drum Corps on cards · there our ranks, I thought it might be of in- is influenced by the state of your finan- Our search started in Idar-Oberstein were about 24 different Corps - and terest to pass on to you some of the cial reserve. Parades, in most areas, in a music store - we were directed to the after a parade, each group performed on many methods through which Ancients represent the major source of a corps' local "Kulturamt" (culture office) the stage. about the land direct their efforts and income. We an love musters, but you where Frau Schultz, after a few phone Our host corps was a "Fanfaren- energies towards raising funds. must bear in mind that there are only so calls, located a member of the "Blaue corps", like about 75 percent of the Regardless of your regional location, many playing dates and your schedule Husaren" (Blue Hussars) Fanfaren- others - consisting of Brass and Drums. some of these devices may well prove must include enough paid jobs to pro- corps, and got us an invitation to visit There are no rules about number of helpful to you in building your war chest vide the income your outfit needs. Every a rehearsal. valves allowable, and it included for special trips, new uniforms, new corps faces those seasons where muster We arrived at their hall about 9:30 everything from Sousaphones to equipment or merely a cash flow to help appearances must be curtailed and p.m., after a big day in Frankfurt at the trumpets. Some had Glockenspiels too. meet basic expenses. In light of helping parades increased for basic economics. zoo and shops, some 100 miles away . Some of the tunes we heard were one another in this most critical area, Our goal is survival and when these completely missing the rehearsal. "Cherry Pink and Apple Blossom any of you who can add to what follows seasons arise ...you do what you have to However, the "Blaue Husaren" own White", "Aloha Oe", "Mr. Sand- may pass on your proven successes to do. their own ha!! and "Gasthaus", which man", "Theme from 1he Pink Pan- The Ancient Times, we will be happy to Parades also serve as indirect sources is like an English Pub, with food from ther", "Rock around the Clock", relay them to 1he membership in future of revenue through exposure of your snacks to meals, beer and wine, and "Tiger Rag", "Beer Barrel Polka", and issues. corps to the public and to prospec1ivc most everyone was still there socializing. "Guantanamera". Mostly American patrons who may be watching. Don't We met Herr Conrad, who introduced music · but that is what you hear on Parades shy away from occasionally doing a us to Herr Reiner Wild (he spoke some German radio. In the parade, they used Ancient corps are extremely popular freebie or taking a sub-par fee, for your English!) and was one of the adults help- "marching" drums, but on the stage our all over the country for we portray a presence may well lead to future dates. ing to manage the group. Between their group had set up ahead of time two patriotism unmatched by any other It is a good idea to have someone in the English and our German, we explained complete sets of trap drums · as did musical unit. Remember that! In some corps armed with business cards so that we had played with. American other groups. We got to see four or five parts of the country corps command as patrons know where to contact you for Corps, and wanted to see what was hap- fife and drum corps in the parade, but high as $700-$800 per performance yet a date. Remember, very few of us adver pening there. Not 100 long afterward, before we had a chance to get ac- in others parade committees simply do tise in the phone book and it can be very they found they had two extra seats on quainted or to see them on stage, our not pay at all. In the New England area difficult for someone to locate your the bus and invited us to come along host corps had to leave for another where corps abound, parade fees range corps. The expense of business cards is that Sunday while they made 1wo ap- festival in "Dorf im Warndt" - a small in the $150 - $350 generany and a a highly worthwhile cost. Doing a free pearances, and we would also get to see village also nearby. business manager must be very cautious parade one year can also set you up for many other groups. Here again, about the same program in his bids. You want to get as much as a paid job next yeac after the commit- So Sunday, Carol, myself and Polly See Germany, page9 you can, but you also do not want to See Lifeline, page 8 (then I 3 months old) rode on their bus
Vol 11 No 3
The Ancient limes
*JAYBIRDS from page I Stony Creek drummer, who was in Alaska, former Kirk and Brooklyn The Almost First European Muster Lemay, (Deep River) and Toby Lazor CWV bass drummer, Joe Irwin from by Miney Hourigan and Scott Greenstreet, (Ancient Wilmington, DE. John Calamari, OinoSwitzerland and their guests again boarded the vans Mariners) made sure that everyone was 86-ycar old Yalesville bass drummer Well, if "The Almost First European for a ride up into the surrounding moun well taken care of. Kegs were donated sent his regards, Jim McEleney was in Muster" sounds a bit incredulous, tains to a "grotto", the name given to by Pat Cooperman, the Ancient Ireland, Ernie Lancaster, 81 ½ missed would you settle for "The First Euro the mountain wine cellars, for a supper Mariners, Leo Brennan and the Camden the party due to an accident injury, Lan pean Jollification"? Whatever you of local delicacies enlivened by a trio of Continentals who brought down a keg craft's F.X. O'Connell was in Virginia, choose to call it, it was a memorable musicians from a nearby village. of their local Matts Beer. Bill Krug (Krugs Corner) Sons of Liberty event when the Mendon Bannock Drum (Reports have it that a short pre-dinner The kitchen crew, Helen Arsenault, said "maybe next year," Earl Sturtze wa~ Band (see A.T. vol. XI no. 2, Fall 19.84) concert given by the Mariners outside Cathy Olsen, Evelyn Chapman, Maura not feeling well, former Westbrookitc, of Lugano, Switzerland, could welcome the grotto was heard by people on the Ott and Eleanor Schoos performed ad Ken Morgan, sent his regrets along with the Swiss Mariners down from their other side of the valley, two miles mirably keeping the buffet table well a check for $500 towards the Building home port of Basel to Lugano's annual away!) Later in the evening the sound stocked. Bernie McKeon of the Deep Fund, Lou Papp, fifer with the old St. Grape Harvest Festival and parade. of Bruce and Emmett's "Quickstep No. River Inn donated 20 pounds of potato John's of Noroton was traveling, and Memorable because it marked the first 3" announced Mendon Bannock's ar salad. Ice was provided by Roger Clark former Company President Ron meeting ever of European-based corps rival and before long a 'til-the-wee hours and Bob Parmalee made presentations Chambers was on vacation. Hudson on European soil. jam session had started. The first bet of customized Jay-Birds tee shirts. The Valleyites who sent regrets were former It all started Saturday noon October ween European corps. above donations made it possible to Regimental, Ron Peterson of Peekskill, 6th wl)en the Swiss Mariners were given Sunday, October 7th saw the two keep the budget low, assuring a finan Ex-West Point Drum Sgt. Hal Green a surprise musical salute by the Mendon units separated in the line of march by cial success. and Lake Katrine's Nick Attanasio. Bannock Drum Band as they and their only a few hundred yards and one float Some 20 people donated items rang From the mosquito state came regrets guests, drum-maker Fredy Werber and so parade watchers in this area were ing from "Ancient Spirits" to drum from Dick Hatch of the N.J. Colonial (more surprises) American Drummers given thei r first one-two punch of An sticks, records, drum slings, practice Militia and Grace Stonelake of the Ken Lemley and Walter Sprance, cient fifing and drumming. At parade's pads, a calculator, plaques, and picture North Haven Girls. The Long Island descended from the train at the Lugano end the two groups again assembled for frames for the raffle. We won't attempt Minutemen had planned on attending en station. There, after a round of pieces more jollifying and.. . what else? Wine to list all the donors because we are sure masse but a parade job lured them by the Band (including Kenny's "Pop tasting. that we missed some in the confusion away. Corn") and also a round of the local The trip to the hotel in preparation but a sincere thank you goes to all who The surprise lantern show was indeed wine (you don't really think those grapes for the Swiss Mariners' departure was ,. gave. a surprise inasmuch as there was none. end up at the Welch's factory, do you?), done on foot this time to the strains of Ed Classey led the afternoon Jollifica The planned showing of films of the the visitors from Basel were presented "Stillman's Reel" and "Downfall of tion and did an excellent job of keeping I 952 North Eastern Ass'n Field Day at with a memento of the occasion: a hand Paris" as farmers and sailors of 1812 the choice of selections to those known Westfield, MA. was cancelled when the carved and inscribed wooden knife of America joined flags and forces in by all. Observed enjoying the Jollifica projector seized up and became in the type used to serve up Mendon Ban Europe for their own private parade, a tion were former snare drum champions operable. (Perhaps to make up for this, nock, and were then whisked off to their real highlight of the weekend. Bob Redican, Howie Kenealy, Hugh Jack Kowal, who brought the films and hotel by (patiently waiting) van tax.is. Amid cries of "Arrivederci" and Quigley and Eric Perriloux. George projector has since offered to donate a The afternoon was given over to sight "Let's do this again some time!" (or at Cullen and Carlo Balestracci, Sr., who sound system for the hall-he can't get seeing in the beautiful lake-front city least its Swiss German equivalent), new each have taken many prizes were show out of it now-it's in print.) and ...more wine-tasting. friends parted as old friends and some ing their winning styles. Traditional The Jollification and good fellowsh ip In the evening, while the Mendon one was heard to remark that as another Valley corps were represented by continued through the late afternoon Bannock played a few numbers down in first it's the first time the jollification Clarence Strickland and Irving Nichols and into the evening. It was truly a great the city as part of the festivities there, has been held before the muster. (What of East Hampton, Oscar Kulish and Ed day for the Jay-Birds. The committee the Swiss Mariners - now in uniform - do you say America?) Carlson of Chester, Herbert Johnson of urges all to send recommendations for Higganum and John Golet of Moodus. persons to be enrolled as Jay-Birds. Dick Sussmier, drummer with the pre Basically, the proposed must have been WWJLAlh Pcao:c..K of Co( Brooklyn str:onelv assaciarnd- wi · · Vol 11 No 3
WWII 4th Degree K of C of Brooklyn, strongly associated with fifing and was there after Oying from Odenton, drumming or have participated in a Maryland for the event. corps. The minimum age is sixty years. Chairman Ed Olsen presided over All recommendations are reviewed by the "formal" part of the program and the standing Jay-Birds Committee. introduced the Honorary Chairmen, Qualified Jay-Birds are the guests of Lou Lavassa of Stony Creek, and Ar The Company at the Annual Jay-Birds thur 'Doc' Ferrante of the N.J. Field Day. In nine years, the day has Music. Doc Ferrante was unable to at developed into a great day for senior tend. Letters of regrets were read from drum corps people, active or retired, it several regular attendees who could not offers an opportunity for reminiscing, attend this year. Among the letters was playing, eating, drinking or just plain one from Stony Creeker, Jack Doyle relaxing in the atmosphere that we all who is in San Francisco, has Landon, love.
Displaying memento of their respective ~ corps first meeting together are Men <:=~ - 51f-:: ;._ .. - =iiE~J¥U0 don Bannock Drum Band's Mike Quinn SWEETHEART FLUTE CO. and Swiss Mariner Commodore Fredy JI So. M,pl< Str Vol 11 No 3 WINTER 1984 Page 5 1h<' 11ncienl Times SOUTHLAND !HCIEITS By Ann M. Feder A new arrival in the John Hanson New officers were elected to the Patriots Fire & Drum Corps of Indian Patowmack Ancients' Executive Board Head, Maryland, was welcomed in Oc- at their annual meeting in October. tober when John Hanson Co-director James L. Hicks, Jr. was re-elected By Bob Riley John Painter and Beverly Painter, Director; Ann Feder and Laura Ewen former fifer with Patowmack Ancients, were elected Business Manager and announced the birth of Brandie Marie Secretary respectively; Cathy Amburgey ADrumRou Painter. She hasn't touched a fife yet,. was re-elected Treasurer; Chester but we'll bet she'll cut her teeth on one. DaBaldo was elected to the post of :_fi-S hot heard round Patowmack Ancients Fife & Drum Quartermaster, while Randy Hauck will _ the world- Corps of Arlington, Virginia, regretfully serve as Musick Master. Representing bids goodbye to Mark and Brendan the performing members will be Aman- II ffl oi ffl ~ [IfNation is born ... Horn, who will be returning to their da Feder, and Ross Andrews will rcpre- native Australia in December. Mark and sent the instructors. Brendan have studied the fife and drum John Willett, Jr., formerly of the Built in 1690, Buckman's Hostlery respectivley, and served in the Color John Hanson Patriots, and his wife .was a rallying point and headquarters Guard for the past year. The corps Judy, formerly of the New Jersey Col- for Lexington minutemen. members have enjoyed getting to know onial Militia, are in Durham, NC, at- Along with owner John Buckman, the the boys and learning something about tempting to form a f.fe and drum corps minutemen numbering approximately Australia, and the boys have had an op- there. If there is anyone in that section 130 and their leader, John Parker, portunity to learn a little about the roots of the country who can give them some would retire to the Buckman taproom of America. They will be missed- assistance, please contact them at 311 S. after.training on the adjoining green. wouldn't it be great to learn of a fife & LaSalle St., #18-A, Durham 27705. Ttie night of April 18, 1775 was a drum corps in Australia! tense one for the minutemen particularly following Paul Revere's midnight Reviewing Our Music alarm. John Parkcr sent out scouts to by Phil Truitt determine the British whereabouts but A Matter of Pride 1st Michigan FDC many were captured by the British and This beautiful and brand new release others. But you w111 also hear such rarely intelligence filtered back slowly and in from Mark Logsden and his 1st recorded gems as "Lilliburlero," fragmentary form. Michigan corps without question bears "Marionettes " "Bonnie Dundee " At 4:30 a.m. the word flashed: the attention of the true fife and drum "Ah Ca Ira/• "The Drunken Pipe~•; '.'They're Nigh! Scanty reserves of ball aficionado. Its appeal as a listening ex and on and on and on. The repertoire and powder were distributed and sixteen perience extends its enjoyment range to is performed at the proper pace to bring out the true beatuty of the music and it year old drummer, Billy Diamond, leav all musicians, past and present, as well as to those many history buffs who really strikes homes as you listen. ing Buckman's warm shelter, took his follow the Ancient trail. This is truly an position in the chilling dawn. exceptional recording and well worth Historical Value A roll on Billy's drum assembled adding to your personal record library. If its authenticity and sound minutemen from the tavern and adjoin reproduction alone this album will stand ing houses on Lexington's famous Unique Digital Sound the test of time as an Ancient classic. green. To start with this is the first Ancient However, the beautiful music is Sun's first rays glinted on British album ever recorded digitally and the something that will bring you timeless sound is pure and nawless. enjoyment worth many times over the bayonets as the lobster backs marched great mysteries concerning the Ameri ~n to Lexington's green. You will experience the feeling that very reasonable purchase price. The can Revolution and may never be four color front cover is tastefully done Who fired that first shot shortly after. you were there at Detroit's Orchestral . . known. The aftermath is common Hall close to the musicians as the to set the mood and theme for the music Vol 11 No 3 -----..--_...... ,.,v-n,.., Vol 11 No 3 Page 6 WINTER 1984 TheAnc Around Yalesville Jrs. move towards their formation point. (Phulo h) Phil Truill) New Jersey Colonial Militia's John Belles, Ancient Mariner Rick Klimowicz and New Jersey Colonial Militia's Frank Orsini ask, "What's holding up the parade"? (Pho..-. by Phil T rui11) Vol 11 No 3 The Long Island Minulemen march lhrough Weslbrook's Honor Guard. (Photo h) Phil Truill) WESTBROOK CT. " Who me?" asks Westbrook's Dave Clark, honored Iha! day, (Pholo b) Phil T ruill) East Hampton, 3rd Conn. Rcg'I back on the road afler a few years absence ... Welcome back! (Ph 011, h) Phil Trui11) Capt. Buxlon's do not lei lhe lack of drums deter them from taking parl in the muster. (Pholo by Elhel 1.nvclk) The New Jersey Field Music enters lhe muster field, Company Sgt. Daniel Bissell FDC slrul Ih eir sluff as Ihey leave the musler stand. First Vice President Art Ferrante fifes al lhe lefl. (Phc,10 by Phil Truill) Vol 11 No 3 WINTER 1984 Page 7 :he Circuit Fi_fer's punishment for nol paying atlenlion lo the instructor is in keeping with the Marine Corps' training of' the Chatham Marine Cadets. We s~spcct that "laughing boy" standing at ease i•1 the rear is about 10 gel h1s, (Ph111u h,\ Hon l>,tSih~11 The honorable Artillery Company, Corps of Drums of London, England, use drums with wooden shells and hoops, unlike the pipe bands of today. (Pho10 by Ron OaSi"•a) IN JOLLY OLD TAUNTON MA Vol 11 No 3 The C uccia famih ·., contri~ut.u ;"(jto s ll•l·Oo Youni.:m inick, Ccilo J osephni~ls, h H T rei n Coton,. ·,, I Minntcml'n (or - i,- ~1"'ii1 of Carmel, N.Y. (Left to_ni; t u '(l'hoio b., Mal H im·kk)) os· 1 Corpsn. s?) ataun 1he 1. r Oclo b,er Musttr .( Plwio h~ \1:II me: • Nicholas, Kathy and Oeb b1e . Minuteperso . 11 HIGGANUM, CT TIVERTON R.I. ++ HNI Olde Ripton turned out a strong co~~t;, by F.ihel Lavelle) - 10 . I o n specia l show al the Higganum- TheHad dSwami ssFDC. Mariner's Musst erpu las t August. (Pholo hr Mal Hin Vol 11 No 3 Page s WIN TER /984 The 1lncienl Times By BILLll1irs KRUG DID YOU KNOW ...... On May 7, 1834, when England col anytime; the sort allotted for them onized many countries of the world, should be short and light sabre blades Daniel Webster made a speech in which with a brass mounting. The swords of he quoted, "A power which has dotted Drummers should be distinguished by over the surface of the whole globe with small additonal bars upon the hilt; those her possessions and military posts, of Drum and Fife-Majors to be like the whose morning drum-beat, following Battalion Serjeants and the whole to be the sun, and keeping company with the ornamented with mohair swordknots, or hours, circles the earth with one con mixed colours, which will contribute tinuous and unbroken strain of the mar vastly to the smartness of the hilts." Ar tial airs of England." ticle XXXI, "Drums to be of wood, the ... that in Jane's Military Dictionary,, front to be painted with the colour of 1816, is says: It has often been asked the facing of the Regiments, the King's why the uniforms of Fifers and Drum cypher and crown, and the number of mers, should be so varied in color and the Regiment under it." Article composition, making them appear so XXXIII, "The coats of Drummers and much more outstanding than the Fifers of all the Royal Regiments are to regimental soldier? According to the be red, faced and lappelled with blue, British Service, it had always been the and laced with royal lace." Article custom to uniform Fifers and Drum XXXIV, "Drumsticks should be made mers very differently, especially in col of ebony or brazilwood, that being fit or and design from the rank and file. test for the purpose, and not easily During the period of which Jane's broken in practice." Article XXXV speaks of, the general practice according "When new drums are issued, th; to the Clothing Warrant of 1751, was to Drum-Major must be directed to take use the colors of the regimental facings, them entirely to pieces, in order to ex so that the musicians would be seen in amine, if every part is formed in a pro many hues- orange, green, buff, per manner, both for sound and service, yellow, red, black and blue! that all defects (should there be any) ...that in London, 1540, "droumes may be made good, before they are and ffyffers" were very well liked. The delivered to the Drummers, painted Grenadier Company, drums and fires, and Fool Guards. c. 1789. fife's popularity ran so high, that Henry linen cases should be given with them, the VIII, sent to Vienna, Austria to ob to be worn constantly, when off duty, The book finally returned from the one, try to order with a corps or get a tain more. But during this period, drum or on the march." Article XXXVI, printers and I sent books to quite a few group of fifers together. If the response mers and fifers were hard to find "The sword belts of Drummers and corps. I also received two letters from is great, I'll then release my second, because of the discipline and conduct re Fifers, should be of buff and there can fifers who did not understand what I third and fourth books. Contact me as quired of t hem to obey the following be no pretence, for their not being meant! If I sold the book individually soon as possible with at least a ten book rules. "All captains must have drums always white and clean." Article XL, and it was copied, then it would "not" order for your corps, at $5 .00 for each and fifes and men to use the same, who "If it is expected, that the Fifers should pay to print the books-the composing, book. BILL KRUG, 2120 Tenth St., shall be faithful, secret and ingenious, attain to any degree of perfection, care the copying, the cover design, the photo, Saint Cloud, Florida 32769. of able personage to use their in must be taken to provide them with a and the mailing. If an individual wants struments and office of sundry proper set of instruments, approved by Ian ua cs for oft ntim h a 'ud e of music after w i . · · Vol 11 No 3 anguagcs, or oftentimes they be sent a ju Vol 11 No 3 •♦ '- , • • , •, -.: • ••, . I I ' ·w,Nr't:n , -••~•--::----::-"."'.""-::::'""'.".== =------~~rw.:ffi~, cnamoen:n commerce, etc. By Scotty Greenstreet Our next encounter was in Celle, In spite of early morning cold a:1d where they had an all day state festival, dampness, September 29th presented "Tag der Niedersachsen", with arts and drum corps members and fans alike with crafts, folk dancing, and bands on every fine fall weather to enjoy the 1984 Sud- street corner. Unfortunately it rained, hury Fife & Drum Companie Muster but not before we saw several "Fan- and Colonial Fair. The weather by farencorps", the official Volkswagen muster time was warm and sunshine Band, and we did sec one large fife and prevalent. Held in a field immediately drum unit. There were several snare across the road from Longfellow's drums • again, on stands when they Wayside Inn, fife & drum corps from played a concert • and soprano, alto, over five states gathered for one of the and "bass" fifes, the size of a modern last times of the 1984 season to muster nute. It seems that all the German fifes and visit with friends. are metal with plastic bushings on th~ The Sudbury folks every year mix a fingerholes, molded plastic embouchure number of ideals together to provide a plate and cork, with 7 holes: a D# for consistently enjoyable. day, plentiful the right little finger, and all made by parking within a short walking distance, the same manufacturer. They said that one of the most beautiful and histo& no one in all Germany played wooden muster sites around, better than average fifes. We did see a few rope drums, muster food supplemented by both light though. Even though a few of them beer, dark beer AND ale coupled with dress in early uniforms, they seem to a genuine hospitality make for one of play modern music. Again we had to the finest musters on the circuit today• leave without getting acquainted, this Friday morning saw the arrival of the time because of the rain. first contingent of a group of hardy and Our last encounter was in Salzbergen stalwart muster campers to begin setting on our way home. A " 100 Jahre up tents and other camping gear for the FreiwilUge Feuerwehr" parade stopped coming weekend. By nightfall, at least our car. We saw all sorts of antique three corps from Connecticut and firefighting equipment, every volunteer Rhode Island were represented. And fire department with a band, Brass-and- true to the traditions of the New drum, or Fife-and-drum unit. One out- England autumn, temperatures started fit had the trumpeters carry fifes and the expected decline. But soon bonfires, play them sometimes, but no fife, drum sweaters, and jackets helped to ward off and bugle corps as we have. Costumes the cold and keep everyone dumb range from modern to Fire Dept. circle of friendship of Swiss and Ancient Mariners and members of the host enough to sleep out happy. Sudbury's Uniforms to "Colonial". The tunes Hlgganum-Haddam Drum Corps playing a few traditional tune8;Pho10 b• Mal Hin Vol 11 No 3 Page JO WINTER 1984 Tlie 1lncient Times * LIFELINE, from page 8 Nayaug Fifer to Old Guard Improvisation On the Fife ly never know where it can lead. Fifer Scott Redfield, Nayaug Ancient These are just some guidelines to help FDC has passed his audition and other There is a Trick to It you. Every corps has its own unique qualifications for acceptance into the sources of fund raising that might help Third Infantry, The Old G~ard. He has by Dan Kerl)', Jr. others in need. Take a minute, and write enlisted for a three year tour of duty, There is more than one group of four us of your successes.. or failures. The and will report to Fort Dix, N .J. on Jan. note-holes available on the fife. I use more we can share our experiences the 8 to start basic training. After comple Dan Kerley, Jr. is a11 invemor whose more successful we will become as a tion of basic training, Scott reports to discoveries have been published in a seven different sets of four note-holes. I have given each set a name. and 1he body and that is what The Company Fort Meyers, Virginia for duty with the wide variety ofmagazines. The "mood'' should be all about. In future issues we Old Guard Fife & Drum Corps. Scot! is system of flfe improvisation was sets as such I call moods. Thus I have a French mood, an English mood, an will look at recruiting new members, so the second Nayaug fifer to become a originally i11ve111ed 011 a pennywhistle Irish mood, a Church mood, a Yankee any of you Ol't there who want to give member of the Old Guard. He is the son with a li11/e help Ji-0111 East lndi{/11 music us some advance input on that equally of Mr. & Mrs Richard Redfield of theo1:r by way ofan old interest in R{/vi mood, a Scottish mood, and an Arabic mood. The Arabic mood tends to have as vital subject. . .let it fly. Glastonbury and a graduate of Glaston Slu111kar. The i11 ve111io11 occured in /{lte bury High School. 1974, and after that Mr. Kerley pl{/yed a Middle-Eastern sound, and 1he French ar "sesiwis" ( Irish hootenan11y.,) for mood sounds a little like a composition many years on the pennywhistle. Even• by Debussy or Ravel. The Irish, Yankee, Camden Continentals Do It Again /l/al/y rhe fife was adopted because it is and Scottish moods all sound very louder, more American. Alrhough he Celtic, and are ideal for developing mar by Dave Boddie had played oboe and clarinet i11 his high ches and folk melodies. The English It is very difficult to report on a gooa Continentals, followed by the Charles school hand, Dan Kerley never felt mood has a sound from the Elizabethan thing repeatedly without sounding W. Dickerson Field Music which was the satisfied as a musician until he found era, and is also ideal for folk melodies. redundant so it should suffice to say that featured corps at the muster. The parade the "moo and compose on than simpler in I Z l 4 ei 6 enjoy the music and good fun. 28, 29 and 30. Mark your calendar now struments like the fife. ,, j 0 000000 rw The parade on Saturday started and get ready to enjoy a good time at The fif!! plays in one key only, and promptly at 12 noon, led by the Camden the National Muster in the Empire State. this seems to provide some of the struc ture needed. One is much closer to free FRENCH MOOD IRISHMOOD improvisation on the fi fe than, say, a Omit: 5 & 6 Omit: 1 & 4 clarinet or a chromatic flute. Play: 1, 2, 3 & 4 Play: 2 , 3, 5& 6 Most people, however, get lost even when playing up and down a full scale ENGLISH MOOD SCOTTISH MOOD of a single key. A little more limitation, Omit: 1 & 6 Omit: 4 & 6 Play: 2, 3, 4 & 5 Play: 1, 2,3&5 more structure, seems to be needed. What works for me is to select any CHURCH MOOD YANKEE MOOD five notes out of a complete scale and Omit: 1 & 2 Omit& 1 & 5 "fool" with those exclusively. On a fife, Play: 3. 4, 5 & 6 Play: 2 , 3, 4 & 6 this means that I keep two note-holes unused through the complete improvisa ARABIC MOOD tion, playing exclusively on four chosen Omit: 3&6 note-holes. The " skips" that my two. Play: 1,2, 4&5 unused note-holes provide effortlessly give my scale the form of a melody. Ad ding just a little expression in the form of rhythm, tongueing, and elision, I can *Sudbury, rrom page 9 quickly create something quite melodic. You can too. through before the muster begins. One l play the same foµr note-holes on impeccably dressed elder gentleman both the upper and lower registers. This commented to this writer that "the The reason for Camden's "big sound"-but wait! do we see a ringer in there in the means that the five-note scales I play can music and uniforms bring out the person of Nick Attanasio? Take one step forward, Nick, get in line. They know that deliver seven, eight, or even ten tones history of the area and remind one of you're there. (Pho10 by Mal Hinckley) depending on the particular five-note a simpler time, except the guys in the scale and the capacity of the particular "sailor suits" and bare feet.."." (who?) fife. The Sudbury people also throw a Should you have some initial pro large well attended party Saturday night blems with four note-holes, try im after the muster which carries the day's provising on just two. You won't make spirit long into the evening. One point complete melodies, but, with some ex of the evening featured Sudbury fifer pression, you should be able to create Les Longworth playing the guitar and short musical phrases. What you can do singing songs your mother would not with two note-holes can be improved by want you to hear. While I was there, I using three. Three note-holes are was also introduced to a number of capable of giving some simple melodies legends and stories, of which an amaz and, once this is learned, four note-holes ing number involved the above Mr. should be easy to master. Longworth. knowing my friend Les, I Some of you may be tempted to try believed everyone of them. improvising on five n_ote-holes (which If you've never attended the Sudbury equals six notes). Good luck! I tend to Muster before, make a point to in 1985. get lost playing that many notes. There's You are assured a day of quality music, not enough built-in melodic structure. friendship and that ancient spirit. The Cullen Insurance Agency, Inc. William M . Kinnare, Preside/II 13S Church Street, Guilford, CT 06437 T he Hooghkirk Family, Sylvia, ullve a1ou Daniel in the rumble seat. Who was II that Of'FICE 203-453-4829 said I can't make the parade because I can't get a babysitter? When there's a will, there's a way. (Photo by Mal Hinckley) Vol 11 No 3 WINTER 1984 Page I I TfrP :ilncie-nt Tames MUSTER & BOOSTER I Remember When--Acton Ostling BUTTONS Size: 2 ¼" Round wooden bass beaters, and when and N. Y., was one ofthe great characters in YOU SUPPLY THE ARTWORK where they came in? the movement. He had a unique slogan NO MINIMUM QUANTITY Yet another question: The Mattatuck on his stationery for many years regar You don't have to buy and Moodus corps both traced their ding his Grand Republic drums: "Try 2000 or even 1000 to get origin to the Revolutionary War drum and Get One." This was not only a a good price. mer Samuel Willcox. Though the two clever advertisement for the rare quali AS LOW AS 25' EACH. corps claimed the same roots, they us ty of his drums, but expressed his at For details send self-addressed ed entirely diff-:rent styles. Moodus did titude toward the business, for it was stamped envelope to: not use music and learned by rote, and said he wouldn't sell a drum to any JOHN J. BELLES instead of the standard rudiments it musician he didn't think was worthy of 5 Mendham A,e., Morristown, NJ 07960 followed a list of 7 "rules" for drum it. Gus was a bit skeptical when the Lud 1-(201) 538-3392 ming the "tenor drum." Mattatuck had wig Co. started the National Association a two-line system of music, and fol . of Rudimental Drummers (N.A.R.D.) lowed tile full list of standard rudiments. in the 1930s, considering it a promo Can anyone explain this mystery? tional gimmick, and from a firm famous Dan Stilliman, who founded the for manufacturing the (to him) despis Chester corps in 1868, had a deaf drum ed rod drums. So he remarked that mer who performed with the group in N.A.R.D. stood for "Now Advocating the early days, I'm told. How was this Acton Ostling ... back in his "teaching Rope Drums." days." (Archives Pholo) accomplished? Stilliman taught him the drum rudiments in a unique way, by In a conversation one day I told him Acton Ostling, a Chester, Ct. native pounding them on the sole of his shoe I would remember the Deep River corps andfollower ofthe ancient scene for 56 so he could feel the vibrations. Ap appearing with 8 snares, 2 or 3 basses, years, recently celebrated his 78th birth parently he was able to perform in and only 4 fifes. The fifers seemed out day with son Dick, a writer for "Time" rhythm by watching fellow drummers. numbered. Gus replied that when you magazine who tcok notes on his are nearby a corps it is hard to hear the Tales of drum lovers: Alex Smith, a reminiscences and wrote them up for fifes. But from a distance away, you can Connecticut state champion drummer "Ancient Times." Acton lives at Bay hear a small number o f fifes on top or Village, 8400 Varno Road, Sarasota, who played with the Bunnell Corps of any conceivable number of drummers. Florida 33581. Though his condition New Haven and the Stony Creek corps, Despite this, I usually aimed for an in was a farmer in Clintonville and avid Gus Moeller- always an advocate or does not enable him to write replies, he strumentation of I 6 fifes, 8 snares and drum collector. He would nev.er part big drums. (An ·hh·C's Pholo) always enjoys receiving notes from 4 basses in my own groups. . Drum Corps friends. with his prized instruments. One day a fellow collector, trying to put pressure "Powder" Dunn, a fine performer • • • on him to part with one specimen, tried with the Bridgeport Pioneers, the Pacific the following in desperation: "Suppose Fire Co. #8, and Yalesville, was a left- During my years of research, it ap- there was a fire in your house? Then h and e d fifI er. That 1s,· h e competed as a peared that the period 1800-1850 was they'd all be deStroyed." Alex replied, soloist by playing with the fife to the left pretty much a blank in terms of corps "I'm not sure my home is any more like- o f h'1s mout h rat h er t h an t h e stand ard activity. The great flowering of ancient ly to burn down than your'n." right because he said he was "more sure corps came after the Civil War. If that of himself" that way. However, for the . h d.d El' B 11 II h Speaking of fires, another collector sake of appearance he always played 1s so, w ere 1 1 rown se a t ose was Julian Palmes of Hadlyme, who drums that he manufactured during drummed with the Moodus and Talcott- right-handed when appearing with the ...____ _..th~o~s~e~x~eMar~s~? _W.._..)J~gub~g~u~s~b~1~1~b~cm...... ,~w~h~c~rc~, --....➔ u:~~i...;·.....,.,...... u:1.,,..,1"-"'w,_ £..-~fu~l~l~c~o~r~s~·------"" Vol 11 No 3 on or w Hll purpose. anyone collecting lore, l visited his home and we Frank Fancher, Connecticut state be able to trace this? went upstairs for my first look at the Another lingering question I have: champion snare drummer, often played original copy of the Bruce and Emmett in the same Bridgeport area corps with When did solid wooden beaters for b_ass method. There were 3 or 4 Eli Brown Powder Dunn. He taught me the lesson drummers come into common use drums piled at the head of the stairs. I that even the greats can make mistakes. among the ancient corps? When I was asked why they were there. Julian s~id, growing up, all the "river corps" At a Connecticut state contest, 1saw the there was an electrical storm the rught legendary Fancher on the stand when (Chester, Deep River, Moodus, Kill before, and any time one occurred he Julian Palmes of Talcothille the judge called for him to perform and Mood us Corps. ingworth, etc.) used soft padded sticks, automatically took the prized drums out either the single or the double drag (Ar,·hiVl':,, Pholo) and I have photos of other corps in the of the closest and put them, so they early part of the 20th Century using the (can't recall which for sure). Whichever could be snatched quickly and gotten rudiment it was, Fancher played the same. I have one photo of the Lancraft out in case the home caught fire. Julian, other one by mistake, and after perfor corps showing both types in use at the by the way, was a judge in one of the same time. I myself never saw a wooden ming 5 or 6 he suddenly came to his classic championship faceoffs between senses and realized what he had done. beater in use until Middletown in 1928. Dan English and Earl Sturtze, but I But the cause was lost. Until after the Civil War, there weren't can't recall who won. many bass drums in use by ancient corps at all. So, could anyone provide further Gus Moeller, the renowned teacher In the old days, almost every town information on which first began using and drum maker of Mount Vernon, with a corps would have it play at the town cemetery for a Memorial Day ceremony. Even if the corps had broken up and didn't play any more, they could usually get a few musicians together to keep up at least this tradition. The prac tice of the Moodus corps was to march from the cemetery with the drums silent and fifers playing "Safe in the Arms of Jesus." This always struck me as a fine tradtion, and a compliment to the men to Moodus. 84 year old Lou vane A. Fox, a Mattaluck drummer, who (to be continued) started playing in 1885. (An:hi't'tS Photo) Moodus Drum ;nd Fife Corps, Circa 1870, in its first uniform. , · ( lt ~--,... , ~ 1.,r.' :l.... Frank "Champ" Fancher The Killingworth Fife and Drum Corps in 1897. (Archivrs Photo) Deep River Fife and Drum Corps before the turn of the century. (Archi\,s Photo) Vol 11 No 3 Pa1el2 WINTER/98' I Tile -bdeat Times NonprofitOrg. P.O. Box318 U.S. POSTAGE Westbrook, CT. 06498 PAID Warwick,R.1. Permit No. 336 The Ancient 1imes 1 CJIIDD,~I PubU1hed br Th• Compdt1r di Fllet1 • b1~m~•n. In~. I Vol. XI No. 3 WINTER /984 Everyone comes to Westbrook with special music so you get your money's !IClEITS !CTiilTIES STOP! worth all the way down the line. CHECK YOU LABEL Highlights Observed December 8, 1984-Colonial Saybrook Fifes & Drums Christmas Torchlight Parade and The Milford Volunteers wore black ; Muster, Old Saybrook, CT. The parade steps off at 6:00 P.M. Contact: William Reid, YOUR SUBSCRIPTION armbands in honor of Ray Arnow's 242 Schoolhouse Rd., Old Saybrook, CT. 06475. (203) 399-6571. HAS EXPIRED memory. N ice to see Duke Terreri, Muy 17-19, 198S-Ulysses Watch Fife & Drum Corps of hhaca, NY hosIS the "Muster If the code in the right hand Bobby 1hompson, Doc Ferrante and of Ox & Ale" in Trumansburg, NY . Camping facilities are available. This muster corner of your address is Ellie Borek playing together in Friday is by INVITATION only. Contact: Timothy N. Rush, 317 N. Fulton Street, Ithaca, night's jollification. Don and Barbara NY 14850. (607) 272-0695. Xl-3 Young of the Jr. Colonials were June 7-9-Yankcc Tunesmiths muster and parade, Richmond Hill, New York City. The RE-SUBSCRIBE TODAY parade steps off at NOON. This is an OPEN muster. Contact: Ernest P. Kiburis, honored for tl,e super job they have 94-16 Woodhaven Boulevard, Ozone Park, NY 1141 6. (718) 845-3133 done with Westbrook's youngsters. June 22-ISth Connecticut Regiment muster, Central School, Simsbury, CT. The parade Great to sec the Olde Ripton parent con WESTBROOK, from page I steps off at NOON, with the muster to follow. This is an OPEN muster. Contact: * tingent that never misses this affair. Tom Short; muster master, 2 Fairchild Rd., Tariffville, CT 06081. (203) 658-4046 Units from nine states were on hand Ann Peder's daughter is joining The June 23-Connecticut Fifers & Drummers Association 100th Anniversary Parade, Wall and every conceivable style of Ancient Old Guard F&D. John McGrath was on ingford, CT. The parade steps off at 1:30 P.M. This is an OPEN event. Contact: fifing and drumming was a b ly hand from Virginia with "Mickey" a Robert Bailey, 174 Burton St., Bristol~ CT 06010. (203) 583-3934 represented. You know the names new puppy mascot. Hugh Quigley and June 28 & 29-1985 National Muster of the Company of Fifers & Drummers hosted by now. Charles W. Dickerson, Stony Ellie Borek were honored by Yalesville by the Camden Continentals, Camden, NY. There will be an 8 corps tacoo at 7:00 Creek, The Old Guard F&D, The Sail P.M. Friday night. The parade on Saturday will step off at NOON. This is an OPEN for 50 years of service to fifing and ' ing Masters , The Kentish Guard, Lan drumming. event. Contact: Jeffrey Waterman, Wolcoll Hill Rd., Camden, NY 13316. (315) craft, the Yalesville Juniors, Nathan 245-01 25 No longer being in the mainstream of Hale, Moodus, Chester, Olde Ripton, Jul)· 13- East Haven Bicentennial Parade and Muster, East Haven, CT. This is a paid Connecticut fifing and drumming, it cvcm which is by INVITATION only. Contact: Mr. William Zampa, 73 Pleasant the Village Volunteers, the Green Moun was a pleasure to renew friendships with Ave., East Haven, CT 06512. (203) 469-3645 tain Regiment, Hannaford's Volunteers, the likes of Jon Ressler, Ernie Norring, Capt. James Buxton, the Deep River July 13- Pound Ridge Colonial Fife and Drum Corps 10th Anniversary Torchlice Muster, Gordy MacArthur, Bill Bevans, Barbara DC, the Connecticut Blues, the combin Pound Ridge, NY. The muster program will rake place in the late afternoon, dinner Foran, Bob Riley, Benny Emerick, Jim served, then the torchlight parade at dusk, ending around a giant bonfire. This muster ed Mariner corps and so on down the Liguori et al. Also had a chance to meet is by INVITATION only. Contact either: Bill Bevans, Old Stone Hill Rd., Pound !ine. Needless to say, it was a spectacular Ken and Dave Morgan ex-Westbrook Ridge, NY 10576. (914) 764-5628; or Lee Rodgers, P .O . Box 70, Bedford, NY 10506 appetizer to the muster stand entrees denizens now residing in the hinterlands. (914) 234-7710. which followed. ,July 13 & 14- Greenrield Village Annual Colonial Military and Music muster, Dear Good to see Moe Lanzi again and the born, Michigan. This event is by INVITATION only, but inquiries are welcome. Con East Hampton corps which joined the tact: Mrs. Mary Logsdon, 39425 Della Rosa, Sterling Heights Ml 48078. Fifth Muster for parade. Jui)' 27-Moodus Drum & Fife Corps 1251h Anniversary muster and parade in con Paddy Sullivan and Babe Kelly were i junction with the tricentennial celebration of East Haddam, CT. The one mile parade Bartons Raiders impressive leading the Mariners all will step off at NOON, with the muster following immediately. RAIN DATE: July weekend. Dave Boddie was out in top 28th at noon. This event is by INVITATION only, bur inquiries for invitations may It was an ideal day in Tiverton, Rhode form with Dickerson's drum lint be made bv co11t:1c1 in•: David P,•;ir Pinc 1>"·1d Colcli · ·"'I' CT(lA.tl5 1203\ 267-215 1 I ,f,.,uf ,.,,. •n ll, ,_,,, 11•, i.t,, liif, • ···' ' Vol 11 No 3 rum orps 1c Annual Westbrook now the campgrounds arc I hi:'! 1'-1 un invi,ational cvcn1. Muster on August 18. Seplemher 8-Marlborougt_1 Fife and Drum Corp~ parade and muster, Blish Memorial literally an exposition for tenting and Park, Marlborough, C1 . The parade steps off al I :00 P.M. This muster is by IN Thirteen corps from Connecticut, camping equipment. You see every size, VITATION only. Contact: Ralph D. Pemsel, 8 Oak Drive Marlborough CT 06447 Massachusetts, Rhode Island, New style and color imaginable. (203) 295-9210 ' ' . York and Maryland formed for the 1 Closing Tribute ...Additiona l information for 1he Ancients Calendar should be sent to: Janice mile pre-muster parade at 12 noon. It would not be fair to omit a tribute Hoo~hkirk, 149 Leets's Island Road, Guilford, CT 06437. Please try to gi ve the date, The muster location at Fort Barton locall_on, type _of event, and the name of a contact person, along with any other peni School, on a hill, near historical Fort to Dave Clark for starting this great nc111 informauon about the event. Banon is an ideal spot for the muster, traditional muster and also to the with camping on the grounds and a Westbrook DC for their greal work in MARINERS, from page t * beach nearby. hosting us every year. By adhering rigid The opening medley of Roy Watrous' hiliration that this combined Mariner The Raiders led off the muster with ly to their standards and their muster Stirring Muster and the Mariner's tribute contingent has in presenting a major format, they present a super show that 10 the Moodus Drum and Fife Corps', concert of this scope and bringing it off a fine performance under the leadership of Corps Commander Judy Silviera. is just a delight to be part of and to sit Swamp Yankee, were highlights to this sans naw. back and enjoy. Our hats off to you all! reporter, but the entire show was filled George Levesque, whose work caused with musical gems that brought en Tribute to Westbrook him to move out of state and resign as thusiastic applause from the highly This Friday evening was just yet Corps Commander last year, was back knowledgeable audience. another tribute to what the Westbrook with the corps for the muster. "I If you missed it you have my sym Muster has become through the years wouldn't miss it" said George. The Ken pathy, but the evening was recorded for the unquestioned showcase of Ancient tish Guards were the featured corps, ac a new Mariner album so don't give up fifing and drumming. Beyond any doubt companjed by the militia unit's fine Col the ship. I know of no corps which The Ancient and Swiss Mariners made or Guard. possesses the virtuositiy in its talent, their mark this evenjng and set th.e edge Following an excellent show by the diversification in its music and the sheer for yet another great weekend at Ancients, the traditional jollification began and lasted until the evening. ability to exude both drama and ex- Westbrook. rI PLEDGE CARD THE ANCIENTS HEADQUARTERS & MUSEUM FUND Mail to: T he Ancients Fund. The Company of Fifers & Drummers, P.O. Box 318 Westbrook, CT 06498. All contributions are tax deductible. ' Swiss Mariners give a drmons1ration or sHck Tl1e renting 21 the Weslbrook Muster. PA TRON $1,000 PLEDGE. You may enclose lhe lotal amounl, your first year's pledge.or simply return the /'how by Mal Ninck/tJ' (}mpany card ,tsell, Your first pledge ot $250 ,s due on January of 1984 and each January, !hereafter. through Jan. 1987_ of CONTRIBUTOR $100 PLEDGE. You may enclose lhe 101al amount, your first year's pledge, or simply <;],Jen rel urn 11,e pledge card. Your lirst pledge of SSO osdue in January of 1984, the second installmenl o f your pledge is &9 due on June, 1984. Vrummers SUBSCRIBER $25.00 DONATION may be made at any time. This is the minimum dollar amount of an ondivodual donatoo~ Iha! wtll quality The Company of Fifers & Drummers tor the matchtng gtll programs of Amencan corporations. /PLEA SE PRINTJ YOUR PLEDGE (Total Amount) ______AMOUNT ENCLOSED WITH THIS PLEDGE CARD ______Your Name ______ Corps Name ------Address ------City ------State ______Zip ____ The Ktnlish Guards Fife and Dru m Corps and lhe M ilitia Compan)''s Col-Or G uard prepare 10 march ofr lht musttr stand al Bar-con's Raiders DONATIONS ACCEPTED IN ANY AMOUNT, AT ANY TIME. ~ uslc~. lnridentally, the lefl guard who ror201 h1.s while gloves is slill do ing KP duly. Pltow by cthel la Pelle