The New York Police Department Marching Band, also known as the NYPD Police Band, is a marching band that serves under the NYPD in New York City as part of its Ceremonial Unit. It comprises active NYPD officers who follow the motto of Serve, Protect and Entertain, performing annually at department ceremonies and community events across the city.[1]
The original NYPD Band existed from 1901 to 1955 as a way for the force to be represented during city functions; its current iteration was founded in 1991 by Lieutenant Tony Giorgio.[2] Members rehearse during off-duty hours, often at midnight to accommodate those working the late shift.
History with the Macy's Parade[]
The NYPD Marching Band made its first Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade appearance in 1992, joining fellow officers in the Mounted and Motorcycle Units. The band performed Frank Sinatra’s “New York, New York” under the direction of Giorgio, who would direct the band in its appearances until his retirement in 2019.
Since then, the band has appeared annually in the Parade and regularly receives the largest applause from spectators.
References[]
- ↑ Pestalozzi, Kim. Mr. G. "It’s a “G” Thing: NYPD Band- Serve, Protect and Entertain." PIX 11. July 25, 2014.
- ↑ Schulman, Michael. "The N.Y.P.D. Police Band Takes the Stage." The New Yorker. May 28, 2018.