William P. Foster (Finding Aid)

William P. Foster

1919 - 2010

Favorite Color: Red

Favorite Food: Beef Ribs and Chili Con Carne

Favorite Time of Year: Spring

Favorite Vacation Spot: West Coast of United States and New York

Interview Length: 138 minutes

Interview Date(s): April 20, 2002

Interview Location(s): Tallahassee, Florida

Abstract

William Foster remembers his parents and talks about their backgrounds and upbringings. He then lists his siblings before talking about the influence of his step-grandfather. Foster recalls his earliest memories and the hard times he faced during his upbringing and then briefly describes his personality as a child. He discusses his grandfather's personality and some of the experiences they shared together. Foster describes his memories of his childhood neighborhood. Next, he explains his early interest and experiences in music as he talks about learning to play the clarinet. William Foster describes his time at high school in Kansas City, explaining how he first became interested in becoming a band director. He then discusses his time at the University of Kansas, where he received a good education, but perhaps more importantly, became motivated to establish a black band that would rival any white band in the country. Foster then discusses his first teaching jobs at the university level, eventually moving to Florida A&M, which had the necessary financial resources for him to fulfill his vision. Dr. William Foster, for over half a century the director of the famous "Marching 100" of Florida A & M University, recalls his early years at FAMU, building the music program and introducing innovative techniques for marching band performance. From the benefit of his long experience, he assesses the most important factors in choreography and music selection. William Foster discusses his career as the director of the Florida A&M marching band, the Marching 100. Foster details the band's national exposure and rise to prominence, as well as explaining the logistics and organization required to direct the band and detailing the rehearsal process. Dr. William P. Foster, director for over fifty years of the famous Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University Marching 100, reflects on his long career and his ideas about creating a successful band and inspiring young people. He discusses his groundbreaking book 'Band Pageantry' and shows photos depicting his life and career.

59 Stories (See Ordered Story Set)