Thanks to the recruiting efforts of Hall of Fame members Scott Pierson (Class of 2014) and Mel Canales (Class of 2013), Gary Moyer joined the Santa Clara Vanguard horn line in 1969. His drum corps journey began as a third soprano, but through relentless drive and an inquisitive nature, he quickly rose to the position of lead soprano. Gary’s pursuit of excellence extended beyond musicianship as he became equally fascinated by the art and precision of marching. Determined to understand and master every aspect of technique, he approached performance with a rare blend of intellect and intensity.

SCV drill designer and marching instructor Pete Emmons (HOF Class of 2013) captured this spirit perfectly in his letter of support when he said:

“My first impression of Gary ‘Moybags’ Moyer was that he was a pain in the butt. However, it didn’t take me long to realize he was a brilliant pain in the butt. I had never met anyone who had so many questions and so many in-depth thoughts about everything we did. His thirst for knowledge and understanding was amazing! Gary’s mind was always looking for better and more efficient ways to approach a situation.” 

Hall of Fame member Charles “Chaz” Anderson (Class of 2015), who joined the corps the same year as Gary, and later instructed alongside him in 1975 when Pete Emmons appointed both as marching execution instructors, recalls:

“Gary was instrumental in establishing the ‘Foundation of Excellence’ in marching and maneuvering technique for the Vanguard. His contributions to creating and defining the ‘Vanguard Essence’ are undeniable — including poise, posture, focus of purpose, attention to individual discipline, and dedication to practice details

Those who worked closely with Gary admired not only his technical skill but also his remarkable ability to inspire others. As Pete Emmons reflected: 

“As a member, his energy and commitment constantly motivated him for perfection from himself. As a teacher, that same energy and commitment for perfection was seen in the resulting performances of the members. He constantly searched for the motivation of each and every move, which then started me on the same path. His influence on my development as a designer and instructor was significant. Over the course of the many years as a member of the corps and teaching staff, we had numerous discussions on how we should approach the visual aspect of each Santa Clara show. Gary was never lost for an opinion, option, or idea.”

Gary’s journey with SCV ended in 1980, but continued for four more years with the Sacramento Freelancers as a member of their marching staff. Gary did return to his beloved SCV in 1985-86, to assist with the planning and coordination of the inaugural “Gathering of the Green” Alumni 1967 – 1971 Reunion which was celebrated on November 28, 1986. 

In 1991, with the recommendations of his mentor, Pete Emmons, and percussion legend Fred Sanford, he was hired as Visual Caption Head for the Troopers Drum & Bugle Corps of Casper, Wyoming. Truly a testament to his leadership, expertise, and reputation for excellence in visual performance.

Born on November 17, 1952, Gary led a full and happy life. Following his years in drum corps, he became a senior associate at BCA Architects and Engineers, where he worked from 1996 until his passing on July 16, 2019. Outside of work, Gary was an adventurer and creative spirit who loved biking, hiking, climbing, and camping under the stars. He also enjoyed participating in the filming of independent video and feature film production projects in his beloved hometown of Santa Cruz, California.

Gary Moyer was inducted posthumously into the VMAPA Hall of Fame in recognition of his extraordinary contributions to the Santa Clara Vanguard and to the drum corps activity as a whole. As his mentor Pete Emmons so aptly said:

“The drum corps activity and specifically the Santa Clara Vanguard, will forever be indebted to Gary Moyer for his caring, compassionate, and unrelenting determination to provide everyone he encountered the opportunity to be the best they could possibly be.” 

View Gary’s HOF Induction Video: https://youtu.be/ZMsrSYDe_ZE