Dressing Up the Band

Spring Debut of Our New Uniform

It has been argued whether or not clothes make the man, but certainly when it comes to uniforms for organized groups, a uniform creates a persona and recognizable image for that group. During the nearly 140 years that the Quakertown Band has been playing music and entertaining crowds their "look" has changed with the times. And as the band is beginning its next decade together, it is time for another uniform change. But first, a bit of fashion history.

Early uniforms dating back to the band's beginnings in the late 1800s and early 1900s, consisted of black pants with gold stripes on the outer leg and jackets with chevrons on the sleeves or gold trim around the edges. For many years, a hat similar to what an airline pilot may wear today, was also part of the standard uniform. The look was very formal and mimicked a military style.

By the late 1940s, the appearance of the band transitioned from traditional concert band attire to more of a "big band" look. Light-colored jackets and bow ties became the new standard.

In more recent years, the band has followed classic concert attire and presented itself in black pants and white shirts. The shirt sleeve is adorned with an insignia patch featuring the band's logo. Both black ties and more recently burgundy ties have completed the official uniform worn during the fall through spring season.

In 2012, the band added a summer uniform, swapping the more formal white tops for maroon and white golf shirts. The light-weight fabric added color and comfort for the musicians as summer concerts in the park can get quite warm. The band received enthusiastic feedback about the summer look so after three years they have decided to update the Fall/Winter/Spring uniform as well.

The new uniform consists of a burgundy long-sleeved shirt and features an embroidered band logo on the front. Gentlemen will also wear an ivory-colored tie while the ladies will wear a string of pearls. The shirts were produced locally at Derstine's Embroidery in Telford.

The band is looking forward to debuting the new uniform at the Annual Spring Concert on March 20th at Strayer Middle School in Quakertown. Please join us for our "Concert in the Park," and check out the band's new look.