About New York Marching Band
Launching in 2026, the New York State Marching Band (NYMB) exists to unite outstanding student musicians from across our state in a safe, inclusive, high‑quality, and FUN marching band experience that celebrates excellence, teamwork, and pride in representing our state.
Our team is committed to providing a platform for musicians to showcase their skills and exercise their passion for music. Creating opportunities for marching band student performers across New York State is our primary mission.
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Core Values
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Excellence & Education: Striving for high musical and marching standards
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Inclusivity: Welcoming and valuing students of all backgrounds, identities, abilities, and experiences
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Safety: Prioritizing physical, emotional, and mental well‑being
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Fun: Ensuring the experience is enjoyable, memorable, and rewarding
Casey Vanderstouw
NYMB Director
Casey Vanderstouw is the director of the New York State Marching Band, leading the ensemble’s inaugural 2026 season. He is a nationally recognized music educator, district-level arts administrator, and marching arts leader with over two decades of experience in music education, ensemble leadership, and large-scale program development at the middle school, high school, collegiate, district, and statewide levels.
As a marching band director, Casey has led student ensembles to perform at some of the most prestigious events in the world, including:
Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade
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Tournament of Roses Parade (Pasadena, CA)
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Bands of America Regional Championships
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US Bands National Championships
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Collegiate Bowl Games
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Performances at unique venues including the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame (Cleveland), NASA Cape Canaveral (Florida), USS Intrepid (NYC), Jack White’s Nashville studio
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Performances for the New York Jets and Buffalo Bills
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Performances and partnerships with over 15 New York State colleges
In addition to directing ensembles at the highest level, Casey remains an active performing artist. In addition to concert percussion performances with various ensembles, he has been selected to perform on snare drum with Saluting America’s Band Directors (SABD), an elite national ensemble honoring music educators, including:
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Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade — 2023
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Tournament of Roses Parade — January 1, 2026