The Hellcats (West Point Band, US Army)

The West Point Band's field music group, the Hellcats, is comprised of bugles, piccolos, and drums, and serves as a showpiece for the United States Army and the United States Military Academy. As the Army's first and only remaining field music group, the Hellcats trace their heritage back to the American Revolution, when General George Washington established the garrison of West Point and appointed a fifer and drummer for signaling in camp. The modern-day Hellcat is handpicked through a rigorous and highly-selective audition process, ensuring that only the most technically-proficient musicians are hired. A contemporary Hellcat is expected to perform with little or no notice at the largest media outlets in New York City and around the world. This has included representing the Army on ABC, NBC, FOX, and BBC1 for their national broadcasts, and collaborating with stars of all genres.
The Hellcats: Rudimental Torchbearers since 1778

Session Description:

Ever since General George Washington established West Point there have been drummers posted at this iconic institution. The modern Hellcat performs in a variety of settings all while still maintaining duties as the first and only remaining Field Music group in the Army. The clinic performance will trace all the skillsets, duties, functions, musical settings, iconic people (PAS Hall of Famers Pratt, DeLucia), that this legendary rudimental drum ensemble has enjoyed for 242 years as a National treasure on our percussion landscape.

Session Category:

  • Marching

Date:

Friday, November 14, 2025

Time:

5:00 PM

Location:

Room 120

Session Type:

Clinic / Performance

Session Format:

Live