The legacy of one of the region’s most beloved musical traditions has been permanently memorialized. The event brought together community members, alumni, and supporters for the unveiling and dedication of a new mural celebrating the Gorham Pageant of Bands.
Titled “Bandstand,” a new mural that honors the history and legacy of the Gorham Pageant of Bands was revealed last Saturday. The mural featuring various uniforms worn by the Marcus Whitman Marching Wildcat Band, as well as tributes to late pageant founder Jack Bullock and longtime director Robert “Bob” Steele. It was painted by and designed in collaboration with Mural Mania, best known for their work creating the world’s longest mural trail along the Erie Canal.
“’Bandstand’ is more than paint on a wall, it’s a tribute to the power of music, the pride of performance, and the legacy of arts education at Marcus Whitman. The Gorham Pageant of Bands brought our community together for decades, and this artwork honors that spirit,” said Dr. Chris Brown, Marcus Whitman CSD Superintendent.
Held outside the Old Mill Restaurant on Main Street in Gorham, the celebration drew hundreds, featured complimentary refreshments provided by the Marcus Whitman Band & Guard Boosters, a performance by the Marcus Whitman Marching Wildcat Band, remarks from local leaders and organizers, and a ribbon cutting led by the family of Jack Bullock.
“We are overwhelmed by the level of community support we’ve received throughout this project,” said Lisa Grefrath, Marcus Whitman Band & Guard Booster President. “As we continue to bolster Whitman’s Marching Arts programs in a variety of ways, we hope that the Pageant’s legacy will continue to inspire students for generations to come.”
Established in 1960, the Gorham Pageant of Bands stood as a cherished local tradition for nearly 60 years, bringing together tens of thousands of student musicians from across Upstate New York and beyond. At its peak, the pageant drew more than twenty thousand spectators annually, serving as the gem of the Marcus Whitman community and one of New York State’s premier celebrations of the arts.
The project was funded exclusively through donations from community members, local businesses, and civic organizations. The Gorham Rotary Club served as the project’s Presenting Donor.
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