A new mural celebrating the legacy of the Gorham Pageant of Bands was unveiled Saturday, bringing together alumni, residents, and supporters for a moving tribute to one of the region’s most iconic musical traditions.
Titled “Bandstand,” the mural was revealed during a ceremony outside the Old Mill Restaurant on Main Street in Gorham on June 7. It honors the history of the pageant and features detailed depictions of uniforms worn by the Marcus Whitman Marching Wildcat Band, as well as tributes to founder Jack Bullock and longtime director Robert “Bob” Steele.
“‘Bandstand’ is more than paint on a wall, it’s a tribute to the power of music, the pride of performance, and the legacy of arts education at Marcus Whitman,” said Marcus Whitman Superintendent Dr. Chris Brown. “The Gorham Pageant of Bands brought our community together for decades, and this artwork honors that spirit.”
The mural was designed in partnership with Mural Mania, a collective known for building the world’s longest mural trail along the Erie Canal.
Saturday’s dedication ceremony drew hundreds and featured a performance by the Marcus Whitman Marching Wildcat Band, remarks from community leaders, and a ribbon cutting led by the family of Jack Bullock. Complimentary refreshments were provided by the Marcus Whitman Band & Guard Boosters.
“We are overwhelmed by the level of community support we’ve received throughout this project,” said Lisa Grefrath, President of the Marcus Whitman Band & Guard Boosters. “As we continue to bolster Whitman’s Marching Arts programs in a variety of ways, we hope that the Pageant’s legacy will continue to inspire students for generations to come.”
Established in 1960, the Gorham Pageant of Bands ran for nearly 60 years and was once one of New York’s largest school band festivals, drawing over 20,000 spectators annually.
The mural was funded entirely through donations from local residents, businesses, and civic organizations. The Gorham Rotary Club served as the Presenting Donor for the project.
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