The Ringgold Band is one of the nation’s oldest and most distinguished community bands, and a source of immense pride. While we honor our historic roots as a Civil War regimental band—known as “The Band of the First Defenders”—we take even greater pride in the 174 years of music we have shared and the joy it has brought to communities throughout Berks and Lancaster Counties. Education remains central to our mission. For many years, the Ringgold Band has provided teaching and mentorship to middle and high school students through our outreach programs, impacting thousands of young musicians along the way. We also sponsor a chapter of the New Horizons International Music Association, offering music education and performance opportunities for adult learners. In addition, the band proudly supports the next generation of musicians through the Ringgold Band Young Artist Awards (RBYAA) scholarship, presented to graduating seniors from Berks County high schools who plan to continue their musical journey. Since the program began in 2006, more than 40 scholarships have been awarded to deserving students. Historically based in Reading, PA, the band is honored to have been named as the “Official Band of the city of Reading.”