(May 23, 2013) Yorba Linda, CA - The Richard Nixon Library recently hosted a salute to POW's from the Viet Nam War as a prelude to the Memorial Day commemoration of American Veterans.  Nearly 200 POW's were welcomed by Villa Park High School's Drum and Bugle Corps -- playing tribute to our heros with God Bless America, This is My Country, America the Beautiful, Stars & Stripes Forever, and a military salute to all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces.  For those who were able to attend, it was an honor to show our thanks to those who fought and endured through such a difficult part of American history.  For those who didn't, we have captured some of the images and sounds to share this special day with you.  If you wish to read more about this event, you can click here to see the article on the Nixon Library's website.

(Feb 22, 2013) Villa Park, CA - This year's winter concert paid special tribute to world-renowned trombonist, composer, arranger, and conductor, James Christensen.  Before joining Disneyland, he led the University of Wisconson Marching Band as well as serving as staff arranger/trombonist at West Point Band.  Jim also worked as arranger/conductor in TV shows, radio, records, commercials, and road shows starring Bob Hope, Pat Boone, and Rosemary Clooney.  Composing and arranging over 400 works during his career, Jim is well-known for many Disney tunes having spent over 37 years at Walt Disney Productions.

We were so blessed to play some of the Jim's favorite compositions while he and his wife, Karen, enjoyed them from the front row in the Villa Park High School auditorium.  Karen led the VPHS band with her piccolo in Piccol-O'Riley, which is a recent creation of her husband.  Karen Christensen is the Music Director at Faith Lutheran Church in Anaheim, CA, and the Flutist and Leader of the Pacific Woodwinds for the Philharmonic Society of Orange County.  You can enjoy some of these special moments from Friday night's performance here:

(Feb 18, 2013) Indio, CA - The VPHS Marchin Spartans travelled to Indio for the 67th annual Riverside County Fair and National Date Festival.  We didn't see too many actual dates, and the ones we did see didn't look too "fair"; however, it was quite an exciting day for the color guard, baton, and drum majors who all won trophies, including the entire band that took 1st place overall.  The parade started at 9am and the band performed around 10:30am, followed by the award ceremony at noon, and enjoying the fairgrounds before heading back just after 5pm.  Take a look in the photo gallery, and watch the video below as they performed in their uniforms for the last time this year.

(Dec 24, 2012) El Segundo, CA - A small group of Villa Park High School musicians played Christmas carols, including Joy to the World, Hark the Herald Angels Sing, and finishing with everyone lighting a candle and singing Silent Night.  It was a beautiful way to spend Christmas Eve, giving thanks for the blessings we have and for those to come.  We would like to thank each of you for all your support of the Villa Park Instrumental Music program, and wish you a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

 

(Dec 13, 2012) Villa Park, CA - The joyful sounds of Christmas were in the air as musicians and signers from the Villa Park High School Instrumental Music program performed for a full house (actual two full houses).  The first concert at 7pm was packed, and a repeat at 8:15 was held to allow everyone a seat to watch the show.  Some jazzy arrangements from Charlie Brown, the Grinch, and several classics featured the Orchestra, Vocal Soloists, Jazz Choir, and Band.  If you were unable to attend this concert, or wish to hear some if it again, we have captured it for you to enjoy once more!

(Dec 9, 2012) Villa Park, CA - The City of Villa Park is recognizing it's 50 year anniversary, so between this historic milestone and Christmas, there are a lot of reasons to celebrate this season with a parade.

This past Sunday, many folks gathered along Santiago Blvd for the annual procession of decorated boats, including the serenade by Villa Park's Marchin' Spartans playing Polar Express.

(Dec 9, 2012) El Segundo, CA - Villa Park's Drum and Bugle Corps marched in the 49th annual "Let it Snow" holiday parade sponsored by El Segundo's Chamber of Commerce and Chevron.  Over 30 various clubs and organizations were represented in the event.  The weather couldn't have been more beautiful as the 27-member VPHS D&B Corps strolled down Main St. from Imperial down to El Segundo Blvd.

Take a look at some of the pictures by clicking here to see the band in their stylish black uniform with glittering blue sash.

(Nov 29, 2012) Anaheim, CA - The Villa Park High School Marchin Spartans performed during the half-time show at Angel's Stadium during the CIF-SS Southwest Division Championship football game against Edision.  Even though VIlla Park lost to Edision, it was a great night for the band and the crowd.  Take a look at some photos taken of the band throughout the evening by clicking here.

 

(Nov 25, 2012) Hollywood, CA - The Marchin' Spartans were at it again, performing in the 81st Annual Hollywood Christmas Parade.  With the help of the boosters, the band marched along the 2.5-mile route starting at La Brea & Hollywood Blvd, then turning south along Vine, follwed by the home stretch coming back on Sunset Blvd.  Watch the video clip taken along the red carpet stage, or click here to see some pictures taken during the event with the band.

If you were unable to see the parade in person this year, the Hallmark Channel is one of the parade sponsors and will be broadcasting the event on their network December 10, 2012.  Hallmark is available through some providers (Time Warner, DirecTV, and the Dish Network), so check your local listing for channel and time.  KTLA will also be airing the parade on December 14 from 8pm to 10pm.  Finally on December 21, the Hallmark Movie Channel will broadcast one more time.

(Nov 11, 2012) - Veterans Day ceremonies at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library included patriotic musical performances by the Orange High School choir and Villa Park High School band, a presentation of the colors by the Seal Beach Navy Sea Cadets, and keynote address by former National Security Adviser Bud McFarlane.