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What began as a disagreement among supporters of a drum and bugle corps, has emerged into one of the finest and most entertaining corps in the history of drum corps. Citing differences of opinion in the artistic direction of the Sunnyvale (Ca) Sparks Drum & Bugle Corps, parents voted to disband the drum & bugle corps and return to a drum & bell corps with majorettes. Having learned of the proposed disbandment, several of the drum corps kids waited outside anxiously awaiting the outcome. After the meeting, three of the adults took the kids into a small room and told them what happened. They were asked if they wanted to keep going as a drum & bugle corps. With a resounding "yes!" a new corps was born.
That same evening, March 6, 1967, at 10:15 pm, the new booster club met for the first time in an "unscheduled meeting." Officers were elected and spirits were high. Gail Royer, music instructor for the Sparks, was a local elementary music teacher and an American Legion judge. He would be the director for the new corps, and would remain so for 25 years. Following the first practice, everyone gathered together to decide on a name. After discussing several possibilities it was narrowed down to three, and they finally settled on the Vanguard.
From that evening grew an organization that has defined the modern era of marching arts. Garnering six world championships and a fan base that spans the globe, the Santa Clara Vanguard is in a class of it's own. The organization boasts a Cadet program that is successful in its own right, a world-class winter color guard and a variety of community-based dance education programs.
CORPS MISSION STATEMENT
To provide the opportunity for people of all ages to develop an appreciation for the performing arts through participation, thus instilling characteristics of integrity, dedication, excellence and good citizenship.
CORPS VISION STATEMENT
To continue a tradition of pride, respect, and excellence of a champion.
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