Pioneer Bands - History

History

In the summer of 1993 Sacred Heart University played host to an unknown drum corps while they were in Connecticut for a competition. Shortly after, Duane Melzer was hired as the first band director for the University, and he put together a small Pep Band of 13 players to play for football and basketball games. By the fall of 1994, the band had grown to 30 players and presented its first halftime field show. This was followed by their first performance in the New York City Columbus Day Parade and Saint Patrick's Day Parade.

In 1997, following Melzer's departure, the University appointed Marvin McNeill as the new Director of Bands. Under McNeill’s direction, the Pioneer Marching Band experienced steady growth, reaching a membership of 65. During this time, the band began to make appearances at local and regional Marching Band events, showing off their new uniform design. The band also made its first appearance at the Boston St. Patrick’s Day Parade. The band also made its first visit to an away football game, traveling to Pittsburgh when the team played against Robert Morris University. McNeill wrote the Pioneer Fight Song, which is still the Fight Song of SHU, and is played at football, basketball, and hockey games.

In 2002 McNeill left to take a position with the University of Connecticut Band program, at which time Charles Bennedum was appointed interim Director. In 2003, Keith Johnston was hired as the new Director of Bands, and Charles Bennedum was appointed Assistant Director.