DCE Power Regional Set For A 2008 Stage In The UK

At the weekend in Dordrecht, Holland, senior representatives of the Major Marching Band and Drum Corps Organizations met for the second time to thrash out some further steps to help give their members experiences that will bring them closer together.

Hosted and Chaired by DCE Chairman Marcel Matthijsse, representation and views were presented and debated from Drum Corps Europe (DCE), The British Youth Band Association (BYBA), Drum Corps Netherlands (DCN), Drum Corps United Kingdom (DCUK), Marching and Performing Arts UK (MPA-UK), Drum Corps France (DCF) and Drum Corps Germany (DCG).

Several steps were taken to solidify much of the discussions that had taken place previously in Brussels. One significant step forward was the agreement to host a DCE Power Regional in the UK on Saturday 21st June 2008.

The DCE Power Regional will utilize a fully DCE Manual Accredited Judging Panel and will be supported by Units from across Europe.

Put this date into your diaries now as this will be a show not to be missed. The venue is being confirmed at the moment, but it looks set to be held in the South East of England. More details will be made available on all Organizations Web Sites and through further communication in due time.

Commenting on the venture, that will see unification in competition form, Tony Patrick, BYBA Chairman comments “I am extremely pleased that we have been able to solidify what will be a great event for our members and those of our sister organization both here in the UK and abroad on the Continent, and welcome the initiative”.

Alan Thompson, Chairman of MPA-UK also added “This is a wonderful opportunity for Drum Corps and Marching Bands in this country, and will provide a stage that will allow the talent that we have here in the UK and also on the Continent to be showcased in a single event. I am equally pleased that the UK will be the location for this Power Regional and look forward to supporting it fully”

More details on the DCE Power Regional will become available shortly, but in closing the session DCE Chairman Marcel Matthjsse said “For me the progress we have made in this area has been extremely pleasing. We have worked together to create a united view of our members experiences and this must be applauded by all. I look forward to ensuring that the first UK DCE Power Regional will be a success and thank everyone for their continued efforts and support”.