About The Band

Big Red Band
The Johnstown High School Big Red Band, as it is known today, was conceived by the band’s former director, Mr. Marc Zirille, on his arrival to the Johnstown Monroe School District in the winter of 2000. Through his energetic teaching style, and by changing the performance style of the marching band, Marc generated tremendous interest in the instrumental music programs. This is reflected in the fact that during his six marching season tenure, membership in the band grew from 55 members in 2001 to 171 participants in the 2007/2008 band (out of approximately 460 total students in the high school). The tradition of a strong interest in the band continues as over 150 students participate in this year's edition of the Big Red Band, now under the direction of Mr. Joe Carver.

The Johnstown High School Big Red Band performs in a collegiate style, and is best described as a show style marching band that incorporates precision drill and dance routines into its performances. During parades, the JHS Big Red Band not only plays selections from their songlist of contemporary songs, but also performs to a number of drum cadences.

Because of its current style of performance, the band does not routinely compete in marching band competitions, but rather performs at band festivals, sporting events, and parades. In addition to entertaining the crowds at Friday night football contests, in the past few years the Big Red Band has appeared at events such as the:


The band has also performed on WCOL's Woody and the Wake Up Call, a popular morning show broadcast on a Columbus radio station (2007, 2006, 2005), as well as at collegiate sporting events at Ohio Dominican University (2004) and Ohio University (2004). In addition, the Big Red Band appeared as the exhibition band at the Licking Valley Band Festival (2004). Other invited appearances include a performance at a “whistle-stop” campaign appearance for Ohio Gov. Robert Taft (2002), and at a Christmas Parade at the Polaris Fashion Place, a major Columbus shopping mall (2002). Each year the Big Red Band wraps up its marching season with performances hosted at the Johnstown Performing Arts Center, selling out all shows.

The band members’ level of musicianship is reflected in the band receiving first place honors for their division at the Jackson Apple Festival Parade (2005), their numerous high marks received at annual OMEA solo and ensemble competitions, and the fact that 12 of the band’s alumni currently perform in collegiate marching bands; five of the band's alumni are currently majoring in music. (see alumni notes)