Criterions HistoryTimeline
Early 1920’s
West Chester State Teacher’s College passes a law which approves co-ed, social dancing.
1927
The Criterions starts as a ballroom dance band in the ‘roaring ‘20’s’ with Larry Gintner organizing. Felt the sound of the band was so good they called themselves “The Criterions”
Johnnie Smith’s Orchestra photographed for the yearbook. Probable previous inspiration for The Criterions.
1932
WPG Atlantic City Broadcasts The Criterions Live from Atlantic City’s Convention Hall
1960
Bob Curnow becomes student director
"My time as the director of the Criterions totally prepared me for my life’s work in music. I arrived on campus in the Fall, 1959 and was fortunate enough to join the Criterions at that time. The student director graduated in January 1960, and I was selected as the new student director. The band was always directed by students until much later. The 3 ½ years with the Criterions was an amazing time for me. I wrote a lot of original music for the band, some good, some not so good. I also transcribed a lot of music from records for us to play. It was during this time that the band was gradually changing from a dance band to a jazz ensemble. However, we continued to perform at all 29 (I think) on-campus dances/gigs on a contract with the student government and the college. We earned $90 a semester. What an education that was! Not only was I getting a top-notch education from the outstanding music faculty, but an education in leading a band, preparing for all those gigs and concerts, and dealing with band personnel. Without the band serving as my “lab band,” I know I never could have been successful as a composer/arranger. I think of those guys and that time very often. I will always be grateful for that experience and my time at West Chester." - Bob Curnow
1963
Lee Southall becomes Student Director
1977
Criterions release I Ordered Liver concert recording
1981
Lee Southall becomes first faculty director of the Criterions – Criterions becomes a 'for-credit' offering at WCU
1986
Lee Southall holds first inaugural Criterions Reunion event
2010
Marc Jacoby becomes director of the Criterions