Our History

The Deep River Junior Ancient Fife & Drum Corps (DRJA) was formed in 1955 and today consists of a 25 member corps of young dedicated musicians. The DRJA is a non-profit 501(c)3 tax-exempt organization and continues to foster & promote Ancient Martial Music through education, instruction, and participation in parades & musters.

Outfitted in Revolutionary era uniforms - red wool coats/contrasting trim/cream colored vests, khaki pants/black gaiters and Tricorn hats; this is always a crowd pleaser.

The musical repertoire is based on the music of the Civil and Revolutionary Wars era with a few contemporary tunes and songs on our list.

Established in 1955, this organization has a rich history resplendent with honors, performances, travel competition awards and parades. The Deep River Junior Ancient Fife and Drum Corps continue its fine tradition of superb musical ability, coupled with refined marching skills to offer the finest junior corps available.

In the course of our season the Corps will march throughout New England, participate in performances, fundraisers and host the Deep River Tattoo on the eve of the famous Deep River Muster.

We look forward to our 2009 season with great excitement and anticipation of miles yet to be marched and more wonderful music yet to be played.

Highlights include:

2000’s

• Bennington Battle Day Parade; 1^st place award August 2008
• 225th Anniversary of the Victory at Yorktown – Marched the Yorktown Day Parade and participated in the reenactment of the British Surrender.
• Celebrated our 50^th anniversary in 2005!
• 2^nd place – New Haven CT St. Patrick’s Day Parade, 2008
• 25^th ANNIVERSARY of the Deep River Tattoo July 17^th, 2009 !!!!!

1990’s

• Lord Mayor of Westminster’s New Years Day Spectacular – London, England with additional performances at Royal Albert Hall and the Garde Center
• WestPoint half-time show
• CT State and North Eastern Champions
• Performance with New Haven Symphony
• Represented Deep River in the 200th Anniversary dedication of the “new, old” State House
• Performed at the Big E

1980’s

• Performance with Boston Pops under the direction of John Williams; Symphony Hall in Boston – twice; once in Tanglewood
• PBS Special with John Denver
• 1st place - Hartford CT St. Patrick’s Day Parade
• 1st place - New Haven CT St. Patrick’s Day Parade