The Ringgold Band

The Ringgold Band

Berks County, Pennsylvania

The historic Ringgold Band is proud to be one of America’s first community bands. Formed in 1852 amid the rolling hills and farms of Berks County, PA, they continue a longstanding tradition of fine musical entertainment in southeastern Pennsylvania.

The Ringgold Band began as the American Brass Band of Reading, Berks County, PA, and in 1853 changed its name to the Ringgold Artillery Brass Band and attaching to the U.S. Army’s 25th and 99th regiments. Trivia buffs may know that on March 6, 1932, renowned “March King” John Philip Sousa conducted the last march of his life. Slated to appear as guest conductor at the Ringgold Band’s 80th Anniversary Concert, Sousa rehearsed “The Stars and Stripes Forever.” Later that day, he attended a banquet in his honor at the Wyomissing Club. He retired to his room in the Abraham Lincoln Hotel in Reading and suffered a fatal heart attack. As a tribute to the late, great “March King”, the Ringgold Band concludes every concert with a rousing rendition in the style of Sousa, “The Stars and Stripes Forever.”

Since 1980, under the direction of Musical Director, James S. Seidel, the band maintains its dedication to upholding the time honored traditions of concert band music.