Torrington Vagabonds Announce Big Switch

DCN June 5, 1963 issue

The American Legion Post No. 38 Vagabonds Drum Corps has abandoned its Derbys, Vests and Red shoes for a new military type uniform of blue and black which was by the Kost Sportswear Co. of Rochester, N.Y.

In addition to new uniforms, the Vagabonds will present a new show with new music under the capable direction of a new drum major Ed Welles, former drum major of the Connecticut Hurricanes. Welles replaces Kevin "Purcy" Purcell who because of business commitments has left the corps.

The Vags will step off the line with a 36 man horn line with new music arranged and instructed by Darcy Davis. The corps will have a vastly improved percussion section instructed by William Rotello and a 15 man color guard, co-captained by Al Wesolowski and Lou Gesmondi, with a new drill pattern, designed and instructed by Ed Welles.

The Vagabonds will present their annual "Pageant of Drums" Sat. July 27, 1963 featuring some of the finer corps from the Northeastern Circuit.

The Vagabonds have a few open dates in the coming season. Anyone desiring to engage them should contact manager Steve Kos Jr., (omitting old address) Torrington, Connecticut.