Band

South Hagerstown High School is proud to offer band classes and a marching band to students. In fact, the Rebel Marching Band boasts a rich history dating back to the fall of 1956 when the school opened. Over the years, the Rebel Marching Band has performed in numerous states, countries, and competitions ranging from local to national.

Did you know the Rebel Marching Band was selected to perform in the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City in 1960? Just a few months later on January 20, 1961, the Rebel Marching Band braved frigid temperatures, strong wind and nearly a foot of snow to march in President John F. Kennedy's inaugural parade. The Rebels were filling in since Utah elected not to send a high school band for the parade. The frozen marching band was named the parade's runner-up!

The band performs all school year including a seasonal concert, the WCPS Showcase of Marching Bands, festivals, pep rallies at South High and elementary and middle school feeder schools, and so many more opportunties!

Performing arts are an important part of the high school experience for students. Performing arts foster essential life skills like communication, critical thinking, and collaboration. Group performances require deep collaboration, teaching students how to give and receive constructive feedback. Performing arts also offer students a healthy, productive medium for self-expression, which is highly beneficial for coping with stress and maintaining student wellness.

Learn more about music programs offered by WCPS here: https://www.wcpsmd.com/curriculum/visual-performing-arts/music 

WCPS Showcase of Marching Bands

The Washington County Public Schools Showcase of Marching Bands was introduced in the fall of 1977. This event provides the opportunity for all seven WCPS high school marching bands to perform their field show in a non-judged showcase. Showcase is usually in October and has been at South Hagerstown's historic School Stadium since 1977 despite having a rotating "host" band every year. Antietam Broadband (formerly Antietam Cable) has recorded and broadcasted this event on local television for many years.

Tickets can be purchased at a discounted rate in advance every fall from each WCPS band in addition to full-price admission at the gate the night of the event. Contact your school's band director for ticket information.

Learn more about the SHHS bandThe best way to learn more about the band, learn how to join or how to support the band and the band boosters is to contact our band director.

Andrew Gallagher
Director of Bands
301-766-8369 (ext. 78012)
gallaand@wcps.k12.md.us