Bio

Gary and Sheila Locke have served students and this community for more than 40 years, 32 years leading the Riverside City College Marching Tigers. One cannot mention the RCC Marching Tigers without acknowledging the debt owed to the Lockes. The directors and performers put the College and the city of Riverside on the map—locally, nationally and internationally. And it all started with two talented individuals.

The Lockes changed thousands of lives when they created the RCC Marching Tigers.  Over the past three decades, the Marching Tigers have inspired millions of people. You may recognize the RCC Marching Tigers from nine appearances in the Tournament of Roses Parade, three in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, half-time performances at the Sunkist Fiesta Bowl, and TV and film roles in “My Blue Heaven,” “Hero,” “Austin Powers,” and the “Truman Show.” Or you may have seen them at one or more of the Disney Parks or across the oceans in England, France, Italy, Spain, or Australia.

The Lockes combined teaching music with building character. Being an RCC Marching Tiger meant showing up on time, putting in the work, staging a “big time” show and, most importantly, having fun. In the process, the student musicians, color guard members, drum majors and other performers learned what it took to succeed on the field, marching along Colorado Boulevard, and in life.

Gary and Sheila turned the baton over to a new generation of directors and coaches. The national championships, international trips, commercials, television coverage and films showcase the impact the Lockes and the RCC Marching Tigers have had in the performance and band worlds. But the performers themselves remember the practices, road trips, and shared meals just as fondly. Today, band members and band alumni say the RCC Marching Tigers will remain Gary’s and Sheila’s in spirit. The Lockes, they say, created one of the world’s largest families.