The Legacy of Fred Sanford

Since the founding of Drum Corps International (DCI) 1972, the High Percussion Award has recognized the ensemble with the most outstanding percussion section each season. This prestigious award celebrates excellence, innovation and leadership on the field — qualities that define the very best in marching percussion. It was renamed the Fred Sanford Award in 2001, in honor of one of the most influential figures in drum corps.

Who Was Fred Sanford?

Sanford began his journey marching with the Troopers in 1959. In 1968 while studying percussion with Tony Cirone at San Jose State University, Sanford started instructing and writing for the Santa Clara Vanguard where he introduced groundbreaking innovations — such as tonal bass drums and moving the pit ensemble from the field to the front sideline — that changed the face of percussion. These revolutionary changes helped redefine the role of percussion in the marching arts.

After college, Sanford also taught several high school programs, continuing to share his expertise and passion with younger students.

Later, Sanford became part of The Blue Devils from 1986 through 1999, continuing to push creative boundaries as both a teacher and an arranger. His work helped transform percussion from a group of “linemen banging big drums” into a space for musical artistry and expression, which paved the way for organizations like Winter Guard International (WGI) and other indoor percussion circuits.

A Dedicated Visionary

Sanford wasn’t just a teacher or arranger — he was a visionary who reshaped the world of marching percussion. His personality was magnetic, and he carried the spirit of drum corps with him wherever he went. Many admired him not only for his musical genius but also for his warm, fun-loving nature. He was truly an ambassador of DCI, and if you idolize a drummer today, chances are they were influenced by Sanford.

Sanford worked at Yamaha from 1985 to 2000, where he brought unwavering dedication and professionalism to his role. He helped develop the SFZ marching snare drum and the Power Lite Marching Series, and he introduced the Yamaha Sounds of Summer Camps, a nationwide summer percussion program that offer young musicians hands-on, personalized instruction from top Yamaha clinicians. The camps fostered musical growth, collaboration and inspiration in the marching arts. Sanford often spoke about the importance of being truly invested in people, not just through your work, but in how you represent it every day.

For Sanford, Yamaha wasn’t just a workplace. It was a place where he worked side by side with people he believed in. His passion and commitment had a lasting impact on those around him, influencing colleagues and strengthening the relationships he built throughout his time there.

Honoring Sanford

In 2001, DCI renamed the High Percussion Award in Sanford’s honor following his passing in 2000 from cancer at the age of 53. Everyone agreed — in a unanimous and heartfelt decision — that Sanford’s name belonged on the award. Not only was he deeply respected and admired throughout the activity, but his influence also touched countless lives.

Fred Sanford didn’t just teach percussion — he transformed it. His innovations, leadership and passion helped shape the modern marching arts, and his legacy continues to inspire generations of performers, educators and arrangers.

Top photo: The Blue Devils performing in 1986. Fred Sanford worked with the group as an arranger from 1986 to 1999.