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Toronto Optimists: 1964

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Toronto Optimists, 1964

Andy & Vern lead the corps down Yonge St. in Toronto (1964)

1964 was a challenging year. The fact that few outside the corps were even aware of of our struggles indicates the depth of the corps and why it was a champion. Many members, including our drum major, aged out or left at the end of 1963. In fact, a major part of the horn line was gone. The Optimists Bantams closed down and many of their members joined us. Andy Henderson, who'd been our guard captain, became our Drum Major. He was joined by Vern Johansson who had been Drum Major of the bantams. We began the year with about 30 guys carrying horns, not all of them playing; however, by year end we were fielding 34 horns and all of us were playing well enough to win a seventh National Championship. 1964 wasn't a great year from a winning perspective but it was an outstanding re-building year.
 
Toronto Optimists somewhere in the Midwest, 1964

Somewhere in the Midwest (1964)

Here are a few memories of 1964
  • we got a mellophone and were the first Canadian corps to use them. It was played by Larry Greenwood and used for the 3rd soprano parts. At year end it was shelved.
  • I have a vague recollection that we did the unthinkable and had to cancel an exhibition show in Hamilton in June (does anyone else remember this)
  • new summer parade uniforms, short-sleeved and cotton. They were a real god-send when we did the 100 mile Milwaukee Circus parade in temperatures that soared into the high 200s (well, maybe I exaggerate a bit). I do remember following elephants (and what they left behind) and, when we stopped for breaks, inserting ice cubes into our shakos in an attempt to stay cool. I also remember being very impressed with Jeff Shimotakahara who perfectly hit the 16 count high "G" at the end of It's Legitimate each and every time we played the number.
  • Menominee, MI where there weren't enough folks to billet all of the corps members and some of the lucky ones got to spend the night in jail
  • Winning in Shawinigan, QC where the trophy was so large that Vern Johansson fit in the trophy case!
  • and, of course, winning Nationals!

Does anyone have other memories of this year, or any other year, they'd like to submit? If yes, please send an email to Bob Carell (toronto_optimist at rogers.com)

 
Toronto Optionals in summer parade uniforms, Blue & Gold parade, near Chicago, 1964

In our summer parade uniforms, US mid-west (1964)

Article on the Optimists from the April 23, 1964 issue of the Toronto Telegram (6.8 mg Acrobat File)
 
 
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