Bands of America is founded as “Marching Bands of America,” a subsidiary of McCormick Enterprises, a band supplies company. 

Gary Beckner is the first executive director.

First Bands of America marching band championship is held – the Grand National Championship in Whitewater, WI, part of the Summer Workshop/Festival.

First Bands of America Regional
Championships held. 

Dr. Nicholas Valenziano succeeds
Gary Beckner as executive director.

First fall BOA Grand National Championships held at the Gator Bowl in Jacksonville, FL.

Tim Lautzenheiser succeeds Nick Valenziano as executive director.

Grand Nationals held at East Tennessee State University in Johnson City in 1981, 1982 and 1983.

Dave Gillum named executive director.

Grand Nationals moves to the newly completed Hoosier Dome, Indianapolis, IN.

1984 marks a major turning point in Bands of America’s history. Formerly part of a parent company, BOA separates to become a new, self-supporting organization renamed Bands of America, Inc. On November 15, 1984, BOA files for not-for-profit status with the IRS.

Scott McCormick becomes executive director.