After almost ten years, the Gorham Pageant of Bands is returning to the Hamlet of Gorham, reviving one of the region’s most cherished musical traditions. The 58th annual pageant, sponsored by the Marcus Whitman Band & Guard Boosters, is scheduled for Friday, May 29, and Saturday, May 30, 2026.
Event Highlights
Friday, May 29 – Jazz Festival
Scholastic jazz ensembles from across the region will perform in the recently renovated Marcus Whitman High School auditorium. Students will receive adjudication and hands-on feedback from judges while performing for peers and the community. A professional ensemble will headline the festival. A suggested donation will support future pageants.
Saturday, May 30 – Parade of Bands
Bands from across New York State will march down Gorham’s historic Main Street, competing and performing for the public. The event will also feature an expanded lineup of vendors and community organizations on the lawn of Gorham Elementary School, offering an afternoon of music, fun, and celebration.
“We look forward to providing a meaningful performance opportunity not only for Marcus Whitman’s student musicians, but for performers across the state,” said Lisa Grefrath, Marcus Whitman Band & Guard Booster President. “The Pageant of Bands carries a proud legacy of excellence, and we’re committed to honoring that tradition as planning continues.”
A Storied Tradition
The Gorham Pageant of Bands was first established in 1960 and ran for nearly six decades, bringing together tens of thousands of student musicians before its last event in 2018. Interest in reviving the pageant grew after a mural celebrating its history was dedicated last year.
For updates and additional information, visit the Marcus Whitman Marching Wildcats’ Facebook page. Those interested in volunteering, sponsoring, vending, or otherwise supporting the pageant can email [email protected].
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