A WPTV reporter joined the marching band at Vero Beach High School days before the academic year began. The Fighting Indians Band traces its origins to 1934, when it was founded as part of the Federal Music Project during the Great Depression.
Current students maintain this tradition. Annabel Robbins serves as a drum major and plays flute piccolo. Incoming senior Brady acts as woodwind captain and section leader. Brady told WPTV that being in charge of many students is “kind of scary” and requires ensuring everyone does well.
Band director Sean Srigley, a school alumnus, said the program rivals the institution’s academics and athletics. He noted the group has marched in major parades across the country. The band performed in the 1988 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City, playing “Alexander’s Ragtime Band” for millions of television viewers.
The ensemble has also appeared in the Tournament of Roses Parade, the Fiesta Bowl Parade, the Orange Bowl and Carnegie Hall. The reporter tried the tuba and drums during the session. Standing on the football field in the Florida heat required discipline. The experience highlighted how current members continue a legacy spanning nearly 90 years.
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