Dr. William P. Foster, Pioneer of FAMU’s Marching 100 was a Member of Alpha Phi Alpha

Did you know that music legend Dr. William P. Foster was a member of Alpha Phi Alpha? This is true! Foster crossed through the Upsilon Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. at the University of Kansas.

William Patrick Foster also known as The Law and The Maestro, was the longtime band director for Florida A&M University from 1946 to 1998. He was also was the president of the American Bandmasters Association and was appointed to the National Council on the Arts by President Bill Clinton. In addition, Foster authored the book titled The Man Behind the Baton.

The original FAMU band was led by P.A. Van Weller. This was during the time that the institution was still known as the Normal and Industrial College for Colored Students. When Foster became director he sensationalized the Marching 100. They began to appear in film, television, magazines, and newspapers. He also secured a partnership with Disney World that helped the school gain national attention. Foster is known for revolutionizing college marching bands with high tempos, dancing, and high-stepping.

Dr. Foster received his Bachelor of Music Education Degree from the University of Kansas in 1941 and then went on to receive a Master of Arts in Music Degree from Wayne State University in 1950. Five years later, in 1955, he received a Doctor of Education Degree with a major in music from Teachers College, Columbia University.

If you want to look at a FAMU show under the direction of William Foster we attached a clip below for you to check out. The footage is from a 1990 field show filmed on VHS.

FAMU Marching “100” – 1990 Field Show

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