August 8, 2010 – Dayton, OH  . . . The Dayton “Summer Classic” has become one of the top regular season shows on the Open Class circuit.  As one of the last shows of the season before DCI Quarter-finals, the scores earned at Dayton play a pivotal role in determining the performance order in Michigan City.

Because of this, Dayton is a chance for drum corps fans to see Open Class corps at the top of their game and this year was no exception. The Spartans continued their triumphant return to the field, finishing the regular season on top.  Music City, 7th Regiment and Legends all finished within less than a point, establishing a tight race in the middle of the finalist contenders. Genesis, Velvet Knights and Blue Saints rounded out the junior corps competitive ranks, while Spirit of Newark performed in exhibition.  Cincinnati Tradition competed as an all-age corps, continuing their preparations for DCA Championships on Labor Day weekend.

August 7, 2010 -- Kingston, NY . . . Dietz Stadium was filled with excited fans who turned out to watch seven DCA units battle it out.  The weather was perfect for the 14th annual “March of Champions” sponsored by the Childrens Home of Kingston.
 
The Empire Statesmen are presenting “OZ, An American Fairy Tale,” combining the music from the “Wizard of Oz,” “Wicked” and “The Wiz.”  They tell a story on the field that is complete with color, visuals, musicality, props and characters such as the Wicked Witch who leads the horn line onto the field with her broom.  Many different body visuals are displayed by the horns in the opening set as they begin playing to the backfield, then turning as the guards breaks out silver and gray silks on the first musical hit.

The front percussion ensemble and horns project a storm-like sound.  Dorothy and Toto enter the show while DM David Bruni dons an emerald green coat.  The front percussion ensemble plays an integration of many musical selections, with Ease on Down the Road being the featured number.  The horn line portrays the soldiers marching into the Wizard’s castle with members of the color guard using large poles swaying in time with the music. 

August 14, 2010 -- Toms River, NJ . . . What could be better than the Jersey Shore on a perfect summer day and an excellent DCA show at night? This year’s “Jersey Shore Invitational” was the right answer to that question.  Sponsored by the Toms River East High School Marching Band and the Bushwackers, the cool breeze from the Atlantic Ocean was just right for the large crowd.

 Connecticut Hurricanes may have some divine assistance on their side as their “Heaven Sent” program continues to strengthen. The opening moments of Joyful, Joyful have the brass line facing the backfield while guard members with white angel wings are lined across the front line and at back center stage, adding much to an outstanding visual package.

The front percussion ensemble opens the musical charts along with Tyler Prophe on trumpet solo, while each section of the horn line is     showcased in the musical book.
 
Kevin Murphy’s percussion section this year is definitely greatly improved and a serious contender for high honors in Rochester.  The visuals performed, as well as the 16th-note bass drum runs and some serious licks from the quads will grab fan’s attention.

August 6, 2010 -- Greendale, WI . . . Greendale High School stadium provided the venue for the second annual “Music on the March,” featuring some of the top performers in Open Class competition.

The home of the 1960s’ Spectacle City Mariners, the South Milwaukee community is no stranger to drum corps, turning out in mass -- to include a few large tailgate parties -- for tonight’s show.

The 2010 season is down to the wire and the stress has become more evident on everyone’s faces; not to mention there’s renewed intensity coming from each remaining performance.

August 4, 2010 -- Eau Claire, WI . . . Despite intermittent rain showers, it was a great night for performances as the Blue Devils B continued to dominate the Open Class and the Oregon Crusaders moved up into second place.

Originally sponsored by the Eau Claire Boys Drum & Bugle Corps in the 1960s, the “Drums on the Chippewa” has played host to some exciting drum corps performances and tonight was no exception.

The Carson Park Stadium was an interesting venue as there was maybe 10 yards between the official sidelines and the front-row seats, which for a number of corps meant the drum major conducting from up in the stands.  It provided a unique situation fans seemed to love.