More Than Music.
A Living Tradition.
Generations of musicians. Decades of friendship. One shared love of live music in Southern Maine.
Music brings us together.
The Alumni Band of Biddeford & Saco is a volunteer concert band welcoming adult musicians from across Southern Maine. Our players bring woodwinds, brass, and percussion together for concerts, celebrations, and community events.
Some members have played for decades; others are returning to instruments they loved in school. All share the joy of making music together.
Our repertoire includes marches, concert works, familiar favorites, and holiday music. New musicians are welcome, and no audition is required.
From two schools to one enduring band.
Marcel “Mike” Drapeau brought former musicians from St. Louis High School and Thornton Academy together. Their reunion became a lasting Southern Maine musical tradition.
The idea takes shape
Anniversary celebrations for St. Louis High School and Thornton Academy inspire Mike to unite alumni musicians.
First rehearsal
The combined ensemble gathers for its first rehearsal in March.
First concert
On April 22, 1990, the band gives its debut performance at the St. Joseph's Federal Credit Union annual meeting.
The tradition continues
The band continues to rehearse, perform, welcome musicians, and celebrate Mike's legacy.
Marcel “Mike” Drapeau
Teacher, conductor, mentor, and founder: Mike believed in the lasting connections music creates. His work with musicians at St. Louis High School and Thornton Academy helped form the community that became The Alumni Band.
Mike died on January 2, 2001. The band continues to honor his dedication to music education, friendship, and community through its performances and the scholarship bearing his name.
Meet conductor Danielle Aullier.
Danielle Aullier studied Music Education and Clarinet Performance at the University of Southern Maine and has pursued graduate studies in clarinet performance.
Her musical experience includes performances with the Bangor Symphony Orchestra, Maine State Ballet Orchestra, Maine Music Society, and Portland Symphony Orchestra. Her leadership carries the band's tradition forward.
We honor the conductors who have shaped the ensemble, including former conductor Tom Lizotte.
Tom Lizotte
Tom Lizotte helped carry The Alumni Band's musical tradition forward through years of dedicated conducting and community performances.
His leadership included memorable “Christmas Eve in My Hometown” concerts and collaborations with the St. James School Choir. The band recognized his contributions with a signed tribute at his retirement.
We are grateful for the time, musicianship, and commitment he gave to the ensemble.
Where the music takes us.
Our calendar reflects the traditions and celebrations that bring Southern Maine together.
Concerts & Holidays
Seasonal performances, including the band's beloved Christmas concert.
Parades & Festivals
Community appearances that include the band's longstanding connection with La Kermesse.
Music Education
The Marcel “Mike” Drapeau Scholarship helps celebrate and encourage the next generation of musicians.
Moments worth remembering.
A selection of real photographs from the band's archive. Select a photograph to view it larger.
There's a seat for you.
Whether you've been playing for years or you're ready to return to your instrument, you're welcome to visit a rehearsal.
329 South Street, Biddeford, Maine
A legacy we build together.
Every rehearsal, concert, new member, and scholarship recipient is another chapter in the Alumni Band's story.