A little history about The Pride of Northside Marching Band
The band started out marching the "Big Ten" style (basically the standard of the day) which involved mostly straight lines and block marching. During the 70's (the John Shook era) and early 80's (the infamous Dave Vail era along with Mike Layland and Steve Kelley) the style would change to what was called "Cassavante", taking the straight lines of the Big Ten style and making shapes to reflect the music, somewhat of a bridge between the old style and the style we march today. In the late 80's and early 90's a man by the name of Greg Denton (who now teaches at Northisde Middle School) took the band director position and used a more current style of marching. All types of formations and music were being used and for the most part this style has remained with the pride to this day. Mr. Denton instilled a strong sense of determination and love of music in his students that has been a characteristic of all Northside band members ever since.
In 1996 Danny Galyen (Greg Denton's student teacher) accepted the position of band director as Mr. Denton moved over to Northside Middle School. The band grew to a tremendous size (at one time 120 strong) and began playing the hippest music of the day (which sometimes happened to be the music of the 60's and 70's!). The Pride has gained a reputation as being one of the coolest AND most well-disciplined, classy groups in the area and has a huge fan-base of non-band students (cheerleaders and athletes), parents, friends and alumni.
In 2001, Tim Galyen applied for the band director position as his oldest brother was leaving to get his masters degree at Syracuse University. He arrived to find the most dedicated, spirited, and talented group of students awaiting him. It has been his goal to keep the traditions of the Pride of Northside strong.
Previous directors:
Guy Briggs
John Shook
David Vail
Mike Layland
Greg Denton
Danny Galyen
Tim Galyen