The Fairport Fire Department Band



Since its formation in 1972, the Fairport Fire Department Band has been supplying musical entertainment to the Fairport community. Over the years, the band has also become a major attraction at parades and concerts in several communities across New York State. The Fairport Fire Department Band is often recognized as one of the most accomplished groups in the State named New York State Champions in 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1995, 1998, 2000, 2002 and 2004.

 In 2001, the Governor of New York marched with the band in Fairport's Independence Day Parade. The band also performed for the Vice President of the United States. In 1999, the musicians had the thrill of marching down Main Street at Walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom. One of their goals in 2006 is to return to Walt Disney World for a repeat performance.

The band is a dedicated group of musicians who think of each other as extended family members. Much of the band's success is attributed to this close bond. The musicians come from many walks of life. We are teachers, students, engineers, administrators, retirees, firefighters' spouses and more. One key thing in common is the satisfaction of sharing our music with the community.

Ronald Milliman is music director of the band; Kyle Schneider is drum major. The band's administrative director is Scott Smith. Anyone interested in more information on the band may contact Scott at band@fairportfd.org.


The Famous DeLand Band
Predecessor to the Fairport Fire Department Band.

In 1881, Robert Wignall, Sr., organized the L.J. DeLand Band at the request of Levi DeLand, who owned the DeLand Chemical Works and founded the DeLand Hose Company (the first fire department in Fairport). The band was later known as the DeLand Cornet Band and DeLand Military Band.

For several years, the band gained considerable fame by frequently winning tournaments around New York State. It also gave many concerts and marched in parades, including the Fairport Old Home Week parades in 1908.