About Us
East Ramapo Marching Band
The East Ramapo Marching Band is directed by Gerry Davis DeDevitis, as of August 2015, while Michael E. Smith is the East Ramapo School District Director of Fine & Performing Arts. Previous Band Directors: Michael E. Smith, returned as director for August 2014 - June 2015. Tom Kane from August 2013 - June 2014 and Dr. Deborah C. Hodge from September 2012 - June 2013.
The band began in 1984 by Band Director Michael E. Smith as the Spring Valley High School Marching Band. In 1988 the band became the East Ramapo Marching Band for the entire East Ramapo School District. He was director until June 2012.
The band has appeared in competitions, football games, basketball games, parades, special events, Ramapo Town Hall television broadcasts, etc.
A special excitement comes from the band's performances and appearances. Their energy and style is infectious.
WELCOME TO THE EAST RAMAPO MARCHING BAND 2010-2011 SCHOOL YEAR
Over twenty seven years ago in 1984, we went on to the football field with a total 15 musicians and color guard. We were the Spring Valley High School Marching Band back then. In 1988 the Spring Valley High School Marching band combined to form the EAST RAMAPO MARCHING BAND. Since 1984 the band participated in an average of the nine football games, twelve competitions, six parades, and five “other”performances each season. Thirty performances a year over twenty equals six hundred performances.
Over 250 awards including Three championships, fill our rooms. The New York States Governors Inaugural ,numerous television appearances including, Good Day New York, CBS Greenwich Polo match, A command performance with J C Chaze before 50,000 people at Giant stadium, as well as a full length movie ,and of course, our standing ovation at the world famous Apollo theater twice. This past year we became the 2009 MAC champions as well as appeared in the new television drama on AMC ‘RUBICON”.
Our band has become the leader of “uniqueness” in show performance. We are usually one of the most anticipated bands to watch. Many parents, teachers, and students, all are interested in the ‘secrets’ to our success. THERE ARE NO SECRETS. Hard work is the key to our achievement. There are many “traditions” to our band as well as rules and policies that form our program.
Our program is designed to help students to learn and practice ways to maximize their achievement in the classroom. In this “MICRO SOCIETY” that encompasses students from all over the East Ramapo community, students learn to work together with an emphasis on community spirit that has been demonstrated with our performances and fund-raising for charitable organizations.
We do not guarantee students the “RICHNESS” of a Championship . However, students will find more wealth in a program designed to make CHAMPIONS in LIFE. Our history boasts of achievement Let us enjoy the tradition, pride and achievement of the famous “ EAST RAMAPO HIGH SCHOOL MARCHING BAND”.
Sincerely,
Mr. Michael E. Smith
East Ramapo Marching Band Director
1984 - Present
East Ramapo Marching Band Parents Association
The East Ramapo Marching Band Parents Association (ERMBPA) is an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit who work closely with the band. The ERMBPA raises funds (and all efforts go directly to the band members) for:
- uniform and equipment replacements not provided by the school district
- scholarships for graduating seniors
- snacks/meals, water and other necessities for band members during football games, parades, competitions, and other performances
Additionally, the ERMBPA chaperones band appearances and trips. The Band Parents provide other support as well, including the maintenance and costs of this website. The crew for moving equipment often includes Band Parents.
Parents of the band members are always welcome to join the ERMBPA.
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