Vista Band History and Legacy

The VHS Regimental Band and Pageantry Corps have a long history of excellence that stretches back to 1972. During that time they were led by some of the most well respected musicians/band directors in the state including Mr. Ken Gammie, Mr. John Vorwald, and Mr. Ralph Ewell.

Recent Success and Recognition

In 2015, the band once again secured 1st place at the SCSBOA 5A Championships along with 1st place in percussion. They returned to Carnegie Hall in April 2017, once again earning a prestigious Gold rating. Most recently, the band achieved outstanding results during the 2022–2023 season, taking 1st place in both the SCSBOA Division 3A competition and the SCSBOA Drumline, continuing their legacy of excellence and national recognition.

Historic Performances and Honors

The Vista High School Band has a long history of notable achievements, beginning with marching in the Tournament of Roses Parade in Pasadena in 1985 and the Fiesta Bowl New Year’s Day Parade in 1998. In 2011, the band won 1st place at the SCSBOA 5A Championships along with 1st place Color Guard, followed by a 2012 invitation for the Vista Symphonic Winds to perform as one of only six bands at the Western States Band Festival at the University of the Pacific in Stockton. The band earned 2nd place at the 2013 SCSBOA 5A Championships, and in April 2014 the Vista Symphonic Winds performed at Carnegie Hall in New York City, receiving a Gold rating, while also premiering their first commissioned work, Down the Lonely Path by Brett Abigana, with the composer in attendance. That same year, June 4, 2014, was proclaimed “Vista High School Band Day” by the mayor and city council, and the group went on to earn 2nd place at the 2014 SCSBOA 5A Championships.