John began his drum corps career in 1959 marching with the Privateers Drum and Bugle corps playing baritone. During that time he also joined his Jr high school band and played tuba. He first competed on the field in 1962 and competed in many individual shows around Jersey and Brooklyn.

In 1964 he joined Blessed Sacrament Golden Knights and continued competing in individual shows. It was at the Golden Knights that he received the name Baby John. He was the first baritone player to receive a solo with the Golden Knights (Cry Me A River). He later went on to become an accomplished instructor, Riversiders 66-69 and The Polish Falcons 69-71 ( both won the Garden State Championship) and he was Brass Judge for the Metro Judges Assoc. and DCA brass Judge. He has recently joined the BSGK Alumni Corps.