Berkshire Pom-Poms

The Berkshire Pom-Poms drum and bugle corps was formed in January of 1970 when the Pom-Poms “All Girls” corps decided to go coed with the addition of males. Under the direction of Alexander Quaglietti, who was director of the “All Girls” corps, they entered the field of competition in 1970.

Edward Slater was drum major and their instructional staff included James Penoyer on brass, Rick Gary on percussion and Albert “Bud” Curry on marching. The corps uniform colors were satin and black and by early 1970, the Pom-Poms were the only drum corps active in Western Massachusetts. They also went under the name Pittsfield Pom-Poms. 

From 1971 to 1974, the Berkshire group remained active in parades and exhibitions but they did have a few mishaps along the way that included a school bus accident in June 1971 when the school bus rolled down a 30-foot embankment, injuring 23 persons of whom six were hospitalized. No serious injuries were reported.

Another incident took place in November 1972 when a premeditated attack took place at a local parade provoked by ex-members of the corps. Thankfully, there were no serious injuries. The corps won the 1974 MA AL state “Parade Class” championships.    

The Pom-Poms returned to field competition as members of the Yankee circuit in 1975 with Mr. Quaglietti as President of the circuit. The championships were held in Pittsfield and sponsored by the 
Pom-Poms who placed 3^rd in competition. They also defended their MA AL state title that year.

The corps returned to parade and exhibition status over the next 4 seasons before disbanding in 1980.

Paul Legault (DCX)

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