1936 Dalton High Band
In 1936, Silvio Lalama made his way to Dalton. Seeing that the city had no bands or clubs, Lalama decided to bring a band to Dalton High.
As the first band director at the school, Lalama started off with 33 members.
Since then, the Catamount band has held a high reputation for excellence—they marched in the inaugural parade for President Johnson in 1965, and was dubbed the “Greatest Band in Dixie” more than once.
Anne Walker, director of Straw Hat Spirit, had made this Homecoming Week a time to look back over those 76 years of music. She has coordinated an alumni band that will go through festivities during the week.
“It’s a time to celebrate the music of Dalton Public Schools,” Walker said of the alumni band.
Anyone that played in the Dalton High band from 1936 (there are two members from that band still living and they will be in attendance) until the present (anyone currently playing in the band) will be welcomed to join the fun.
The events will start on the Thursday, Oct. 25—those who wish can attend band practice at the high school.
On Friday, Oct. 26, the alumni band will march in the Homecoming parade—if you choose to participate in the parade, you may either march or ride a float.
After the parade, the band will head to Harmon Field to practice before the game. Walker said you are not required to play an instrument if you do not wish.
At game time, the alumni band will be presented before the game. They will play The “Hey” Song, Go Big Red! and the Dalton High Fight Song.
On Saturday the 27, there will be a picnic lunch at Harmon Field prepared by the Dalton Depot.
“We have over 180 already,” Walker said of those who have signed up already, and she’s expecting more as game day gets closer.
To make your reservations for the alumni band, visit
https://sites.google.com/site/strawhatspirit2012/home
or call Anne Walker at 706-260-1017.
By Lindsey Derrick, Dalton Public Schools Contributor.
