How we evolved
1970's
The band was originally formed in 1970 when the drum section split away from the school brass band. In those days it consisted of snares, tenor and bass drums. (No Melody!) Gradually, bell lyres were introduced, so that they could at last play some sort of tune!
During the late 1970's, E-flat Cavalry trumpets were purchased and the band began to flourish.
Music and displays were fairly traditional in style, as was the uniform - leopard skin was all the rage for the percussion!
The 1980's
1980 saw the band enter its first contest at Burnley, in the BYBA (British Youth Band Association) novice class. (What an education that was!) After gaining lots of experience at competitions and its members attending 'Pontins' training weeks, Hessle High School Drum Corps began to achieve success and in 1984 were promoted to the Contest Class. A Colourguard was added and the band began to change its style.
In 1987 there began a transition onto valve trumpets & trombones, marking the end of the traditional style and Cavalry E-flat trumpets.
1988 was a very good year for the band, culminating in its first appearance at the British Marching Band Championships at Wembley Arena and promotion to the Championship class (Division One).
The 1990's
Due to membership decline and lean times it was necessary for the band to return to Division 2 in 1992.
This became a major turning point - with building up its membership and a change of musical outlook, they took the competition scene by storm in 1994, winning all but one contest. They also won the league title, the BYBA National Finals and promotion to Division One once again.
Since its return to Division One, the band has enjoyed a string of successes and has competed in the BYBA finals each year. One of its finest moments was its third appearance at Wembly Arena in 1995, when they won the Open Class Showband title, with a show based on Disney's 'Aladdin'.
In 1997 the band competed for the first time at the Royal Albert Hall with their 'Lion King' Show and were crowned 'British Showband Champions'.
Most recently they have competed at the World Showband Championships, gaining an amazing 8th place and a gold medal. (read the report)