March On! ...the history of the
Toronto Optimists Drum & Bugle Corps
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Harry Clark
Corps: Optimists Scout Band, Opti-Corps, Toronto Optimists
December 26, 1938 – August 5, 2025
Harry started drumming with the Scout Band that started it all. When the guys left scouting and became Opti-Corps, Harry was there. And he continued drumming when Opti-Corps moved into Junior "A" and became the Toronto Optimists. Harry aged out in 1960; however, he never lost his love of drumming.
Harry wanted to instruct and that opportunity presented itself a few years later, not with the Toronto Optimists but with their arch-rival, De La Salle. Harry's exceptional instruction, arranging and leadership skills were critical in helping De La Salle defeat the Optimists and become one of the top drums corps in North America! With one of the best drum lines anywhere.
Here are a few comments from some of those who knew Harry:
L-R: Glen Durish, Glenn Copp, Hector Roberts,
Colin Hedworth, Carl Clutchey, Gord O'Halloran,
Jim Reynolds, Bob Anderson, Bill Ukas, Brian Williams,
Ronn Prokop, Harry Clark (Maple Leaf Gardens, 1960)
"Harry was not only a fabulous drum instructor and writer he was a leader. He inspired he guided and he crafted and shaped a drum line we all were proud to be part of. Not only was he respected, he was loved." (Peter Mosley from De La Salle)
"Although I am wasn’t on the drum line I leaned a lot from Harry. Most times it is best to listen to others before having input. He was a thoughtful observer so when he spoke it was deliberate, measured and objective. I can picture him standing near the drum line with his arms crossed in thought. A truly classy man. Thanks for the life lessons Harry." (Kathy Swaile from De La Salle)
"Harry Clark was a 'Prince' among men. Cool, calm, even tempered and always approachable – even to a 14 year old rookie. If anyone deserves to be in the DCI Hall of Fame it is this percussion legend." (Myron Melnyk)
Harry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . We Remember!