top of page

A BRIEF HISTORY OF THE VERSATILE 100 ALUMNI BAND

The "Versatile 100" Marching Band of I. C. Norcom High School, known for its spirited performances and unwavering dedication to the "School that we love best", has a rich history deeply rooted in the heart of Portsmouth, Virginia. Established in 1946, this historically black American high school band has a legacy that continues to inspire and captivate audiences.

 

The band's humble beginnings were marked by the remarkable efforts of the Citizens Band Committee of Portsmouth, VA, who, in 1945, raised a substantial sum of $4,000 – equivalent to $65,000 in 2023 – to purchase instruments and lay the foundation for the Versatile 100. Under the dedicated direction of Mr. Derrick Copeland in 1946, the band quickly transformed into a well-uniformed ensemble, setting the stage for years of excellence.

 

Six years later, the band's destiny took a significant turn when Mr. Emery "Chief" Fears arrived in Portsmouth, hailing from Tuskegee, Alabama. His visionary leadership shaped the band's unique style and brand and gave birth to the iconic moniker "Versatile 100." which was coined by Dr. Kevin Davenport Director of Bands from 1985 -1995. Mr. Fears set the standard for the program, instilling in its members a deep commitment to musical excellence, discipline, and a sense of pride that endures as a cornerstone of the I. C. Norcom High School experience. Through the years, the Versatile 100 Marching Band has become a symbol of unity, talent, and tradition, showcasing the enduring spirit of the Greyhounds and their maroon and grey legacy. In 2005 the Versatile 100 won its first National Championship and would go on to win back to back National Championships under the Direction of Dr. Juliet Boykins Director of Bands 2004-2008 | 2010 -2016.

I.C._Norcom_High_School_Band_1948_2.jpg
To this committee of citizens,
I. C. Norcom High School is sincerely grateful.
NORCOM BAND STAFF CREATORS.jpg

Their untiring vigor and deep interest resulted in the realization of a long-cherished dream - a band for Norcom High School. Thanks to their efforts, the support of all Portsmouth citizenry, and the cooperation of our student body, we now boast a well-uniformed, playing band under the leadership of the band instructor, Mr.

Derrick Copeland.

​

Standing:-Messrs, M. F. Gibson, A. Crump, G. Cooper, C. A. Butts, W. J., Diggs, L. Bolden, and O. Bond.

Seated:-_Messrs. T. White, C. H: Harris, F. B. Harris, and C. H. Bowens.

"Versatile 100" Band Directors

1946 - Present

Screenshot 2023-10-16 at 4.50.11 AM.jpeg

Derrick Copeland

1946-1952

Screenshot 2023-10-16 at 4.44.11 AM.jpeg

Lorenzo Hainsworth

1977-1982

20157928_10154484425351595_1033726386538380008_o.jpg

William L. Prentiss

1996-1999

13244091_10153389823805059_2361652062436452463_o_edited.jpg

Jonathan Pigford

2016-2019

IMG_8592.JPG

Emery Fears

1952-1972

default avatar.jpg

Barney Wiggins

1982-1985

IMG_0208.JPG

Thomas Thorogood, Jr.

1999-2004

381056732_908461973956210_1256229452718212196_n.jpg

Derek Wright

2019-2023

Screenshot 2023-10-16 at 5.04.02 AM.jpeg

Bruce Frazier

1972-1975

303115923_3183767255272529_768615404981363962_n.jpg

Kevin Davenport

1985-1995

386730405_18390030871005435_531656979392333964_n.jpg

Dr. Juliet Boykins

2004-2008 / 2010-2016

default avatar.jpg

Mack Jones

2023-Present

Screenshot 2023-10-16 at 5.14.18 AM.jpeg

George Sadler

1976

50031887_2431028206926520_1890757935001239552_n.png

Donovan Wells

1995-1996

IMG_0224.JPG

Dr. Anthony Washington

2008-2010

IMG_2259.jpeg

Drum Majors

Have some history to share?
Upload File
Upload supported file (Max 15MB)

Thank you! This information goes far in helping us understand our history.

Follow Us

  • Instagram
  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • YouTube

©2022 by "Versatile 100" Alumni Band Association 

39948895_10155793480236274_2224578499941761024_n.jpg

Thanks for submitting!

CONTACT US IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS:
 

  • Black Facebook Icon
  • Black Twitter Icon
  • Black Instagram Icon

©2022 by Brittney Horton for the "Versatile 100" Alumni Band Association

bottom of page