The Hellcats - West Point Band

The West Point Band's field music group, The Hellcats, is a showpiece for the United States Army and the United States Military Academy. Comprised of Bugles, Piccolos, and Drums, the Hellcats received their name from the Corps of Cadets because of the early morning playing of reveille every day at West Point. As the Army's first and only remaining field music group, the Hellcats trace their heritage back to the American Revolution when General George Washington established the garrison of West Point and appointed a fifer and drummer for signaling in camp.

The modern day Hellcat is handpicked through a rigorous, highly selective audition process ensuring that only the most technically proficient musicians are hired. A contemporary Hellcat is expected to perform with little or no notice at the largest media outlets in New York City and around the world. This has included representing the Army on ABC, NBC, Fox and BBC1 for their national broadcasts, and collaborating with stars of all genres such as country music artist Trace Adkins.

For the Hellcats, high profile ceremonies are prevalent, and include such events as the sounding of Taps at the U.S. Embassy in London to honor the anniversary of September 11th, performing at the NY Stock Exchange on Veterans day, performing ceremonial honors at the tombs of presidents Ulysses S. Grant and Franklin D. Roosevelt, as well as providing military honors at the West Point Cemetery.

With the mission to inspire global audiences and serve as musical ambassadors of West Point and the Army, the Hellcats are frequently sought after to add a sense of regality and military excellence to events and performances. This has included everything from Veteran's associations to the Boston Pops Orchestra and the New York Philharmonic.

For more than two centuries, these active duty Soldiers have provided the soundtrack of service for West Point and the United States Army.

The Hellcats: Serving America’s leaders: yesterday, today, and tomorrow.