In 1991, John Bosworth, a veteran of the legendary US Air Force Pipe Band and US Air Force Band had an idea for a new type of fife and drum corps - one that combined rudimental drumming with modern drum corps literature and fife music from many periods. Together with other musicians from diverse backgrounds, he formed the American Originals Fife and Drum Corps. Although the corps’ uniform was inspired by the US Navy’s formal dress uniform of 1812, the corps chose not to recreate any specific historical military unit, or adhere to the music of any defined time period. Instead, in true American fashion, the corps sought to draw from history while embracing the innovation of modern musical arrangements.
The American Originals Fife and Drum Corps now offers an extensive repertoire of American music, spanning the times from the American Revolution, through the Civil War, and on into the sounds of the 21st century. Selections from the Broadway stage and the Big Band Era, as well as folk tunes brought to America from many countries, enrich the corps’ musical range. This novel approach to fifing and drumming has entertained audiences in Canada, Switzerland, Germany, and The Netherlands as well as the USA.
...And it continues with Pride.
For over 20 years, each one of the corps’ performances has been introduced with the words, “Ladies and Gentlemen, with pride, the American Originals.” The all-volunteer members of the corps are inspired by pride to execute a difficult musical and marching program. Corps members range in age from teens to seniors, and practice many vocations, but all feel the true family spirit that permeates this unique organization. From its home in the Washington, DC Metropolitan Area, the corps marches out to present American music to audiences worldwide, always aspiring to be complete entertainers; leaving fans standing, clapping, and calling for more.
The American Originals Presents:
Music that is a part of the rich fabric of American folklore, woven by the men and women who built our nation out of the great expanse of North America.
THE MISSION STATEMENT:
To preserve the sounds of our historical past while incorporating military precision, techniques and execution in order to provide a well rounded presentation of musical excellence.
OBJECTIVES:
-To perform for events that stimulate the spirit in our country.
-To demonstrate, in a team environment, the hard work and discipline required to execute a difficult musical repertoire that distinguishes the group's fifing and drumming as an exceptional art form.
-To represent the United States in international events that bring citizens from around the world together.
-To exhibit pride for our American heritage.
