Dr. William Patrick Foster, the founder, and creative genius, of the internationally acclaimed Florida A&M University (FAMU) Marching “100” Band passed away earlier this morning after a brief illness. He was 91 years old.For more than 50 years, Foster transformed halftime into showtime. His unique style of band pageantry dazzled millions the world over with their showmanship and musicianship. Foster's emphasis was always on music first, and his marching bands sounded like moving orchestras.
Dr. Foster truly revolutionized marching band techniques and reshaped the perception of the art form. His doctoral thesis "Band Pageantry" became must read material for scores of marching band directors. Foster published over 18 articles for professional journals, 4 published marching band shows, and ia composer of Marche Brillante, National Honors March, March Continental, and Centennial Celebration.
Under Foster's direction, the FAMU band received the prestigious John Philip Sousa Foundation’s Sudler Trophy in 1985, and was selected as the official representative of the United States at the French Bastille Day Parade in Paris, which celebrated the 200th anniversary of the French Revolution.
Update: Funeral Services for Dr. Foster will be Saturday, September 4, 2010, at 11 a.m in Lee Hall on campus. Public viewing will be on Friday, September 3 from 12- 6 p.m.