The Brandywine Blazers is a unique non-profit organization comprised of 18 musicians who played together as high school classmates more than 50 years ago. They have come together again to celebrate their love of jazz through performances, workshops and recordings.

The Blazers were the first high school jazz band in the state of Delaware. They were organized in the fall of 1960 by Hal Schiff, a gifted jazz saxophonist and music educator who began his teaching career at Brandywine High School, joining Wes Diemer in the music department. Both Hal and Wes expanded the scope of the program to surrounding elementary and junior high schools. The Blazers played at school concerts, dances and many other academic and community events, often performing with vocalists and other entertainers. Several albums were recorded over the years.

In the summer of 1963, the Blazers attended the Stan Kenton Clinic at the University of Indiana, giving the members direct exposure to contemporary big band jazz and the musicians and composers of the time. 

The Blazers competed in Stage Band competitions in suburban Philadelphia, winning first place in 1963, 1964, 1965 and 1966. Under the leadership of Hal Schiff, the Blazers demonstrated talent, pride and teamwork with the goal of increasing appreciation of jazz in schools, the local community and around the world.

The band today is comprised of former students from diverse life experiences and includes professional musicians, teachers, engineers, physicians, clergy, attorneys, scientists and entrepreneurs.