Our Founder – Marcel “Mike” Drapeau | The Alumni Band

Our Founder: Marcel “Mike” Drapeau

Marcel “Mike” Drapeau was the driving force behind The Alumni Band — a visionary educator and conductor whose love of music shaped generations of musicians in Biddeford, Saco, and beyond.

🎵 The Beginning of a Legacy

In the late 1980s, Mike served as music director at both St. Louis High School and Thornton Academy. As both schools prepared for major anniversary celebrations — St. Louis for its 50th anniversary and Thornton Academy for its 100th — alumni musicians began returning to rehearse for these special events.

Mike recognized the potential in these talented alumni musicians, and rather than letting the momentum fade after the celebrations, he proposed merging both groups into one united community ensemble.

In 1989–1990, The Alumni Band of Biddeford & Saco was born — built on Mike’s belief that music should be shared, celebrated, and enjoyed long after graduation.

🎺 Timeline: The Formation & Growth of The Alumni Band

  • 1989: Alumni from St. Louis High School and Thornton Academy begin preparing for anniversary events.
  • Early 1990: Mike proposes merging the two alumni groups into one united community band.
  • March 1990: The combined band holds its first rehearsal — an inspiring moment for all involved.
  • April 22, 1990: The Alumni Band performs its debut concert at the St. Joseph’s Federal Credit Union annual meeting.
  • Summer 1990: The band performs at the La Kermesse Franco-Americaine Festival parade, becoming an annual favorite.
  • 1990s: The Alumni Band becomes one of the busiest community bands in Southern Maine.
  • January 2, 2001: Mike passes away, leaving behind a powerful musical legacy.
  • 2001–Present: The band continues under dedicated volunteer conductors, honoring Mike through music.

📘 The Marcel “Mike” Drapeau Scholarship

To honor Mike’s lifelong commitment to both music and education, The Alumni Band established the Marcel “Mike” Drapeau Scholarship. Awarded annually, it supports a deserving student musician who demonstrates musical talent, leadership, and a dedication to continuing their musical journey.

The scholarship ensures Mike’s mission — empowering young musicians — continues for generations.

❤️ A Tribute to Our Founder

To those who knew him, Mike was more than a conductor. He was a mentor, an encourager, and the kind of teacher who made every musician feel welcomed and valued. His rehearsals brought laughter, challenge, and genuine community.

“Mike believed that once you played for him, you were part of his musical family for life. The Alumni Band is a living reflection of that belief — a place where musicians of all ages come together to keep his spirit and his music alive.”
— The Alumni Band

Today, The Alumni Band performs not only to entertain our community, but also to honor the man who made everything we do possible. Every note we play is a continuation of Mike’s vision.