Comments on: VFMA Drum Cadences

By: Bill Waterman '53

Bill Waterman '53 — Sat, 03 Feb 2024 22:41:10 +0000

Very good to see (and hear in my head) the cadences I played! In my years at the VFMA there were no records of the Band made – to my great regret in the years since. I still remember marching in the 1953 Parade for President Eisenhour. In those days we Played “Them Basses” when passing the Reviewing Stand and the tubas right behind us were on the verge of blowing our Shakos off! (as I remember every accented note in the written beats shown above were played as “Flams” not just accented.)

By: Roy Lambson

Roy Lambson — Mon, 25 Sep 2023 17:02:06 +0000

Remember…without a front row of drummers…nobody turns the corner. Great memories and thank you all…wiping the tears, as I post this.

By: Tim Long, 69-71JC

Tim Long, 69-71JC — Sat, 03 Dec 2022 01:18:47 +0000

This is not a comment on the VFMA Drum Cadence, although I thank you Mr Rogers for putting this altogether for those who experienced it are able to relive the memory. It was indeed and honor and a privilege to work and discuss with you the order of the cadence parts. Great job, Dave! My question is: does anyone know if cadet rooms still have open shelf lockers (you know, where you folded all your laundry around 4×6 index cards)? Also, if this practice is no longer utilized, does anyone know when it stopped? These are the questions that plague a 71 year old VF alum!! Best wishes to all for a Safe and Happy Holiday Season.

By: Harry F. Mansell

Harry F. Mansell — Sun, 27 Sep 2020 02:04:20 +0000

I appreciate the sound of drums you provided. I loved hearing the VFMA marching band during parade reviews while marching and standing at attention during 1960-1961 assembly. I would love to find a CD of the band music on parade, not so much in concert. If you have knowledge of such send it to my mailbox 7p1u6m7kin@innernet.net Thanks, Cadet Sgt. Harry Mansell (7167).

By: Jeffrey Tobin

Jeffrey Tobin — Sat, 17 Aug 2019 20:22:24 +0000

You guys are awesome. Thank you for taking time to do this.

By: Timothy Long

Timothy Long — Sat, 17 Aug 2019 03:53:45 +0000

In reply to Gerry Maynard. A true Band Captain you were, Mr Maynard. It was indeed an honor to play in the band under your guidance and leadership.

By: Dan Witter

Dan Witter — Fri, 16 Aug 2019 22:02:23 +0000

Good night. I remember Jim Bedison (in front row) playing those cadences in front of me for 3 years. I marveled at how the drummers played in unison; well, they were wonderfully accomplished. We took our bandsmen’s talents for granted, I suppose. Don’t know how Jim stood my trombone blaring in his ear for 3 yrs. Actually, don’t know how Duke stood it; he marched to the immediate right of Jim. Certainly elegant cadences, reflecting Duke’s no nonsense elegance and stride. Thank you.

By: Gerry Maynard

Gerry Maynard — Fri, 16 Aug 2019 21:20:14 +0000

Yes, great memories. As the Band Captain and Drum Major, both David and Tim were right behind me, keeping me and 54 other VF bandsmen in step. Still play periodically the BandSir.com music in the background at my office. Thanks for the memories.

By: Dave Shaffer '55

Dave Shaffer '55 — Fri, 16 Aug 2019 20:27:12 +0000

Glad to get new material on the Band Sir! web site. We’re out here paying attention — or is that “Atten Hut!”

By: Jason Leader

Jason Leader — Fri, 16 Aug 2019 20:06:42 +0000

Wow, memories came flooding back.