Leaderboard

If you don't value competition, then you have no reason whatsoever to be angry, when you find yourself in last place.

But when an organization does not give any level of importance to placement they also need to rethink their priorities and purpose. Yes, there can only be one group in first place (though that would be an erroneous statement of course if there was a tie), but placement is a very important part of every competitive organization, without placement they exist, but IMO they are not competitive. I don't believe in the everyone should get a medal just for showing up school of thought. I also don't believe that members join a competitive organization to never have the chance to be competitive.

It is an INTelligence test to see if people who claim to hate posts about a subject are smart enough not to click on a thread that tells them in the thread name that there will be posts about that subject.

Unlike "Waffles" which is still as fresh as the day it was introduced......

Be there!!! Don't want to compete but want to show off your chops? Be there! There will be exhibitions only, beside the competition. Looking for a great afternoon of drum corps history and stories? Be there! Just want to see old friends and share a few adult beverages? Be there! Want to meet some new friends and share stories of "Back in the day"? Be there! Hope to see many of you there for the afternoon. Ray

This thread has been one of those that has tangents that bend off topic but remain in the main thought well enough to keep the topic moving forward into Wildwood..... After digesting all of the DCA Fan Network 2014 shows that I could, I firmly believe that it is safe to EXPECT that in 2015 most corps will continue to: Get Younger Get Better With the continual pushing of the envelope, it appears that 2015 will see the most creative, most challenging, most effective, most polished performances in drum corps history. While the social atmosphere around the world and around our own country present challenges to the safety of our very existence, it is clear that DCA/DCI and other activities for young (and not so young) are developing the kinds of leaders we want for our future and our grandchildren's future. And those of us in the stands are reaping the benefits of extreme entertainment ! So that's my DCA Prediction for 2015: IT GETS BETTER !!!! Go Cabs ! Go Everybody ! Joe Dz in NJ

I once called for a senior historical thread, like the junior forum has. So far it hasn't happened, but after re-reading my original submission for the DCW history book volume 2, i have decided to post the entire, unedited and updated version. I hope you all enjoy. The Westshoremen By Jeff Ream If there is one thing about the Westshoremen drum and Bugle Corps that is consistent, it is that the corps had ups and downs every so many years. Despite the lows, the corps has been a VFW, American Legion and DCA World Champion in its history. Founded in 1946 along the banks of the Susquehanna River in Wormleysburg PA, the corps was originally named the Longshoremen. Many of the founding members were former members of the old Harrisburg Privateers junior corps, which disbanded at the onset of World War II. The corps quickly rose to prominence that first year, placing 4th at VFW finals, concluding with the VFW state titles in 1951, 1952, and 1953, and the VFW National title in 1952. The corps also won the PA VFW title in 1953.Director Jack Kaufman led his troops home victorious, only to find trouble waiting. It seemed the famed union of the same name issues with the usage of that name being used by the corps. The union did indeed sue the corps for misuse of the name and right away the corps changed the name to the Westshoremen, as the post the corps used was on the west bank of the Susquehanna, across from Harrisburg, PA. The union then dropped the lawsuit. Shortly after this, the corps performed for President Eisenhower. They placed 4th at the 1957 VFW finals. Known affectionately as The Worms (short for Wormleysburg) represented VFW post 1462. One of the early members is Roger Hall, who invented the breakaway base commonly used in baseball world wide. During this same time, in Millersburg PA, representing American Legion Post 326, the Bonnie Scots were born. Clad in red kilts and tall black plumes, this corps rose slowly, but surely, and captured the PA State Championship. In 1959, the corps merged with the Bonnie Scots of Millersburg PA. The seeds had been planted a few months earlier. membership in both corps was shrinking, and for a while, both reduced their schedules to parades only. Both of the corps were hired to represent fire companies at a parade in Carlisle PA in September 1959. The night before the parade, the decision to merge was made. At the end of the parade, the corps joined ranks and marched back to the beginning of the parade.. and the merger was born! By far the largest corps ever massed in the area, it was quite a sight to see the Bonnie Scots in red kilts and tall black plumes side by side with the Westshoremen, in their blue satin uniforms with black slacks and white shakos. The decision was made to return to competition, representing both AL post 232, and a new VFW home, post 6704 from Mechanicsburg, PA. The uniforms saw the corps stay in black and blue, but with a sash of red, black and blue to allow the Bonnie Scots tradition to carry on. The 60s saw not as much competitive success, though the corps did place 2nd at the 1963 and 1966 State VFW championships. The corps competed in Class B, competing against such former greats as the Tyrone Gardner Guards (who the corps finally defeated in 1961), the Hanover Lancers, Emmaus Sentinels, Milton Keystoners, Hershey Choclatiers, and Bangor Yellow Jackets. The corps joined DCA in 1965, although not attending finals until 1967. Notable names for instructors during this era were John Flowers and Bob Zarfoss for percussion, Frank Ferraro, Skip Groff, Bill Saltzer on brass. The Guard was handled at the time by Pop Hoyer and Barb Flowers. The director thru this era was T. V. OConnell, who passed away in 1967. OConnell passed away on June 23, 1967, while the corps was in Chambersburg, PA, preparing for a competition. With a heavy heart, the corps performed that night, and dedicated the season to their beloved former director. Billy Saltzer took over the reigns of leadership. The season also saw the beginning of the corps home show, in Carlisle, PA. Review of the corps carried on until 1989. In 1967, the corps placed 10th at the DCA championships. The show consisted of Cabaret, You Set My Heart To Music, I Believe and Love Letters. In 1968 and 1969, the corps placed 12th at DCA prelims as well as placing 2nd at the 1969 RCA championships. In 1970, the corps placed 11th at DCA prelims and 4th at the 1970 RCA finals. 1971 saw the corps slip to 15th at DCA and 1972 saw them in 14th. After the 1972 season the corps went inactive for 1973. Billy Saltzer was the director until the corps disbanded. Many members, including longtime snare line stalwarts John Skee Derr and George Big daddy Satch Satchell, left for the Reading Buccaneers, and more such as Wally Ream and Jim Magilton left for the Yankee Rebels. The corps once again reorganized in early 1974, with Hall of Famer Larry Hershman at the helm. The name was changed to Westshoremen, Inc., and with a dedicated group of veterans, they began the long climb back to DCA finalist status. The uniforms returned to the original Looks, blue satin tops, white shakos and black pants. The corps got off to a late start, not even learning drill until the day after the Hershey Show. The first season produced the corps lowest known score, 37.35, in Amherst MA, a week before finals. At prelims, the corps rose to a 41.00 and last place at DCA prelims. not the results desired, but, back on the field. The membership did not give upthey founded the Serande in Brass indoor concert, and began recruiting many band directors in the area, hoping they would join in as well as their students. Slowly, it began to pay off. In 1975, the corps stayed in 15th place (out of 19 this time) and saw their score jump 22 points. Show selection was Triumphant March, Livin for the City, Latina and My Way In 1976, the corps rose to 11th place, good for Associate status in DCA, as well as 3rd at the RCA finals. After the season, the corps bought the Blue devils old uniforms, which were almost identical to The corps, the only difference being Black Aussies. 1977 was the corps return to DCA finals in 1977 with a 10th place finish. 1978, the corps rose to 9th at DCA, but the crowning moment of the season is when the corps traveled to New Orleans, LA, to compete in the American Legion National Championships, representing the Linglestown, PA post 272. There, the corps competed at the world famous Superdome, and defeated the Chicago Connection 77.00 to 60.45 for the crown. The corps also beat its arch-rivals, the Reading Buccaneers for the first time that season. Adding Rich Templin for the visual staff was the start of something special! 1979 began the building of what insiders referred to where we want to be status. Show design was improved, as Hershman began recruiting some of the best and brightest to go with Rich Templin: Ric Colletti on percussion, Ray Eyler (who has worked with everybody) and Dave Rohrer (Bluecoats) on Brass. New uniforms were designed, all black with a powder blue sash and plume on a black aussie. With other local corps starting to fall by the wayside, as well as people from around the state deciding to travel to Harrisburg, the corps began to grow. The 1979 season saw a 6th place finish at DCA, the highest yet, and its first win in DCA competition ever! The energetic Show started with Got to Get To It from Chorus Line, and added What I did For Love, Granada Smoothie, Sing, Sing, Sing and The Impossible Dream. The corps also defended their American Legion title by default, as no senior contest was held that year. 1980 saw more improvement, and also one of the corps funniest moments in history. En route to a 5th place finish at DCA finals, the corps was performing their closer of Impossible Dream, which included a color pres, and a huge American Flag to be unfurled. Underneath the flag was several drum cases filled with Doves to be released. Only one problem the birds, being kept in the dark, refused to fly away, and instead had to be chased off the field. Chief Judge Walter Kelly chased several off by firing the timing pistol, and members came back to retrieve the straggling birds, so the Sunrisers could take the field. The corps also placed 4th at the American Legion Championships. The show consisted of Journey to the center of the Earth, What I Did For Love, Spanish Dreams, Sing, Sing, Sing and The Impossible Dream. One of the highlights was the mellophone solos of Sylvia (then Hernandez, for a while Filipelli and now Perbetsky). The staff remained intact. 1981 saw a disappointing 6th place finish, and staff changes were made. One early season highlight was the corps singing Music, but at mid season the singing was removed and a reprise of The Impossible Dream was inserted to end the show. Journey and Spanish Dreams remained, Big Noise From Winnetka and a drum solo of Third Piano Concerto were added. White capes were also added to the uniform. For 1982, Frank Dorritie of Blue Devils fame was imported from California to write and teach the horn line. Eric Kitchenman joined Rich Templin on the visual staff. Hall of Famer Billy Kauffman, Robb Mueller of Colts later fame on percussion, and even Ralph Hardimon consulted. Drum major Tommy Sipe was featured as a rifle virtuoso. And the corps knew this could be the year. The show was Blues In The Night, Razulli, Icarus, Big Noise From Winnetka and All The Things You Are. It was decided that the capes would be dropped. Also, no more skirts for the guard, as males joined the guard. Coming out of the blocks hot and heavy, the corps walked away undefeated until late July, then continued to win several more shows. However, the late surging Sunrisers passed the corps, and while the best finish yet, 2nd place with a tie for high GE was felt to be a disappointment. The season was dedicated to Benny Behrens, long time equipment manager. he had been with the corps for over 30 years. Also of note, long time member Al Beran was elected to the World Drum Corps Hall of Fame. 1983 again featured many of the same players and a powerful corps, but 4th place was the end result. The show consisted of Blues and All The Things You Are, with Everybody Loves The Blues and Love For Sale inserted in the middle. The season was dedicated to Norm Sedlak, a member of the A squad who had come to join the corps after the Yankee Rebels disbanded. In October, it was announced that the management team was leaving, and all of the equipment was sold to the California Dons JR corps. A group of dedicated members met at a fire hall in Harrisburg, and vowed that day the corps would be back, and even performed at the Serenade in Brass concert in April. Dan Bowman took the reins as director, and brought in John Chamberlin and Dick Eschenmann to help the administrative side of the house. But, things fell apart until late June, when it was decided to field a corps at prelims. The members referred to it as the six week tour and in six weeks, got a show on the field, performed as best as could be expected, and ended up in 15th at DCA prelims. The show consisted mainly of songs from 82 and 83, such as Blues in The Night, Big Noise From Winnetka, and All The Things You Are. In 1985, the corps placed 12th at DCA, falling back to 13th in 1986. The corps also competed in some ICA shows during this time. In 1987, the corps again rose to 12th, with a core group of members that were determined to get the corps back into finals. Show highlights included Walk him Up The Stairs, Johnny One Note, Big Noise From Winnetka and Music (with the singing from 1981) and the Impossible Dream. Steve Filipelli and Chris Poole led the percussion. 1988, a larger corps, with some new staff faces achieved that goal, and the corps placed 7th at DCA finals. The show consisted of Funeral for a Friend, Colas Beurgnon Overture, Claires Song, Take the A Train, and One Night Only (from Dreamgirls). New uniforms were signed: White bib pants, which had a blue top with a white W cut into it. White Aussies completed the new look. 1989 saw more change as the corps went to a more modern jazz approach, and hired Dan Delong (Bucs, Shore and Bluecoats) as percussion caption head and John Arietano (Sunrisers, Skyliners, Hurcs) to head the brass. Crossmen legend Mark Thurston arranged for the percussion. To add to the uniform, blue sparkles were added to the W outline on the uniform top. The corps lived under the motto of One More Once and never knew how good they were until it was over, fighting with Steel City, Empire and the Crusaders all year for the middle of the pack. Playing Explosion, Strawberry Soup and Spirit of St. Frederick, the corps oozed aggressive jazz. When the dust cleared, the corps ended up 5th, cracking 90 for the first time in DCA competition. The percussion section especially was happy, claiming the high execution trophy. 1990 was to be the year. Arientano and Delong remained, and Rich Templin (Shore, Cabs, Sky and Bluecoats fame) and George Thompson were brought in to run the drill and guard. This group stayed through 1992. Helmets replaced the Aussie hats, a touch of pink was added to the uniform top, and the guard wore blue spandex with white tops. The show was Suite For Jazz Orchestra and Gershwin: Portrait In Jazz. The corps was huge, and good. Throughout the season, the corps traded victories with the Caballeros and Empire Statesmen, and won the Scranton Regional. The percussion section had one loss to its name until finals. In fact, the week before finals, the corps had the highest score in all of DCA. But, prelims found the corps in 4th, and finals did not change. The percussion section also ended in 4th. This led to much frustration among the members, and 1991 saw a smaller corps that landed in 7th place at finals. Music selected for the year was City of Angels, Ocean Parkway and Bacchanlia. 1992 saw corps full of talent, but show design issues landed them in 6th. Music was Taboo, Street Dancing, and Bues In The Night. The season and the victory were dedicated to Judy Parfet, the corps long time souvenier person. Former director Larry Hershman was inducted into the World Drum Corps Hall of Fame this year also. 1993 saw a smaller corps under new director Dan Rippon, as the corps stepped away from jazz to perform the music of Yanni, and despite its size, landed in 6th. Percussion was still led by Delong, with John Bugosh and Walt Street handling the brass, Mike Herr and Tim Newlin doing the guard. 1994 saw an even smaller corps, and a show that left members and fans alike confused, and the corps ended up 10th in DCA competition. The show theme was The Four Seasons and the music was First Circle Carnival, Autumn Leaves and Cathedral In A Suitcase. The season also brought the passing of Al Beran, long time member of the A squad and World Hall of Fame member. That fall, in October it was decided that the corps was done. Finances were a mess, and the corps was in the red. Director Dan Rippon resigned. However, several members rallied around Jerry Mace, who stated he would take over and get the corps in the title hunt as well as in the black. and boy did he get the corps in the black. Uniforms that is. When the 1995 edition of the corps debuted at Serenade in Brass, the corps was decked in black head to toe. and huge! Black shakos, black shirts and overlays, which had a silver sash. Arientano and Delong were back for the music, Terry Martin and Tim Newlin did the drill and guard. The corps served notice they were back, and even the members wondered if a worst to first finish was possible. With a show of Blues In The Night, Strawberry Soup, Twilight Tones and Suite for Jazz Orchestra, the corps continued to climb the ladder all season, and again the percussion section lead the way, walking into finals weekend undefeated. The corps entered finals 3rd, .5 behind the Empire Statesmen. The percussion section had a bad prelims show but remained unbeaten and on a missionthe corps knew they couldnt catch the Cabs, but it wanted Empire. That night, at finals, the corps performed the best show in corps history, to leapfrog over Empire for 2nd, and capture the percussion trophy. Yet, this corps wasnt done. The corps knew 1996 was its chance, and began in October. The uniform was modified to add a new overlay, which was blue at the top, with silver on the bottom.the dividing line was in the form of a W. The staff was back. There was little turnover, and many people tried out for the spots that did exist. The corps show was based on the 50th anniversary of the corps, titled Suite for Westshore featured Granada Smoothie, All the Things You Are, Explosion, Marching Season By Yanni, Carnival, Suite For Jazz ending a reprise of Blues In The Night, which had snippets of the Impossible Dream thrown in. The corps lost early on to the Cabs, and never looked back until late seasonin fact, the corps won the famous Barnum Festival, and even won Drum Major in what was known as Cabs turf! Other highlights were winning the Hershey show, which was basically Westshore turf, and many alumni were on hand to celebrate the victory. In August the corps traveled to Orlando, FL and performed in exhibition at DCI semi finals, earning several standing ovations. The next weekend, the corps tied Empire at Syracuse, making the fight for finals more interesting. DCA prelims found the corps in 2nd, .9 behind the Cabs. Yet, the members dug deep, and managed to come out of Rochester NY with the world title, tying for GE and winning all percussion captions, with a corps record score 96.9, .1 ahead of the Cabs. The impossible Dream had been accomplishedthe DCA title was coming home to Harrisburg. However the off-season was rough on the corps. Many members cited burnout and retired. The management announced the formation of the Westshoremen Cadets Jr. corps, and when membership for the Jr. corps was small, it was announced if you were in the senior corps and under 21, you had to do both. This led to more members, mostly under 21, leaving the corps. To add to the problems, the corps suffered many financial setbacks, one of which saw a member paying for the entire corps to return to PA from Orlando FL. The corps had again been invited to perform at DCI semis, but the buses had been locked due to non-payment. The junior corps, in its only year of existence placed 31st at Dci Division 2/3 prelims, with a score of 52.2. In the end, the corps placed 7th at DCA, the staff was fired, and it was decided the junior corps would go on its own. Much confusion reigned afterwards, as to who was left in charge, who owned what etc. many threats of legal action were made, and many long time relationships harmed. To say this period more than any other led to the demise of the corps would be an understatement. Many of its repercussions are felt today, and some threats of legal action still persist. Once again, many members banded together to keep the corps going into 1998, with Ann Beck and Bill Toomey leading the administration. Despite a strong showing at Serenade In Brass in April, the corps only participated at the DCA mini corps competition. Many former members retired or left to march elsewhere. The Board of Directors also had large turnover as few could agree on the direction of the corps. 1999 saw the corps back on the field in Class A status, placing 4th, where they would place again in 2000 and 2001. 2002 saw the corps inactive, as its few remaining members went to march with the Skyliners, and no plans have been announced for 2003. The name has become more visible however, due to the formation of the Westshoremen Alumni corps, which performs annually at the Serenade In Brass indoor concert held annually in April. Growing Steadily every year, this past year marked the largest version yet, and arguably, the best performing as well. Will Westshore return to the field? Many rumors abound. After the late 90s much equipment is needed, and many local ties need to be repaired. But stranger things have happened in the history of this corps. Many thanks to: Wally Ream, Rich Sennett, Steve Filipelli, Ron Allard and Chris Maher, Jodeen Popps History of drum corps and especially Larry Hershman for his allowing me to borrow his Lamberton award winning Westshoremen-Bonnie Scots drum and bugle corps essay

Question: In light of the new electronics proposal passing, can you explain specifically how electronics is handled by the DCI judging system? Which captions evaluate A&E and what are their individual responsibilities in that regard? Is there specific language on the judging sheets regarding the use of electronics and amplification? In the past there have been many complaints about the balance of electronics and amplified sound relative to the level of the brass and percussion. Is the quality of this balance adjudicated? Is reinforcing a brass part considered a legitimate use of electronics or is it discouraged ? Sometimes there are clearly technical problems with sound equipment (buzzes, static and other non-desirable sounds). Sometimes the equipment fails and the audience can't hear the intended sound. Are these failures treated the same as undesirable sounds from the brass or percussion? The sound systems seem to be highly directional and focused to judges. Is there an effort to make sure that the entire (or at least a large part of) audience is able to hear a balanced ensemble sound from performing corps? Answer: (from Michael Cesario, DCI Artistic Director) As with anything new, the evaluative process at Drum Corps International grows any time a new idea is adopted. The same is true for Amplification and Electronics. The rules are actually quite specific about what can and cannot be used, but the creativity of the Performers and Arrangers is really just now beginning to be explored. Some timbres and textures that were previously unavailable are finding their way into today's productions, with everything from harp and celeste voices to thunderclaps and ocean sounds becoming part of an expanded musical score. The Music Judges, including Percussion, consider all the voices presented, each according to their caption. Certainly, overbalanced electronic contributions might not garner the same credit that a well-balanced ensemble would receive. In recent weeks, the Voting Membership of DCI passed a rule change to allow the balance of the amplified and electronic voices to be controlled from audience/grandstand/press box areas. Since the acoustic atmosphere changes dramatically from venue to venue, it was felt that the control of volume and balance might be better adjusted from "out front". Much of the aural blend also regards field placement of Percussive and Brass voices. After all, if the tubas are in front of us, we expect to hear them. In fact, they may be featured at that moment, and we would not want an even blanket of non-directional sound to encompass the entire stadium. A broken piece of electronic equipment is treated similarly to a broken drumhead or broken rifle. It may or may not affect the overall impact of the show, the ensemble cohesiveness, or the ability of the performer to achieve excellence. As with those events, the program may not receive the credit it might when all is going smoothly, but there is no specific penalty for an equipment breakdown. [Additional response within thread below]

It is with great pleasure that we announce the formation of a brand new corps...The Southern Knights! The corps will be based out of the Birmingham, Alabama area. Founded on 1/5/15, we are in the process of assembling a great staff of professionals to lead the corps into the realm of outdoor pageantry. The Southern Knights will be all-age, so members can begin, or continue their drum corps experience for years to come. You can follow our progress on facebook at https://www.facebook.com/southernknights1, or at our website at www.southernknightscorps.org. We will take the summer of 2015 to build the foundation, and enter competition in 2016. See y'all on the field!!!

Our Beloved Founder and highly respected Musician & Educator, Albert A. âBerdieâ LaFlamme, died February 27, 2015 at his home after a period of declining health. Berdie founded the Spartans Drum and Bugle Corps in Milford NH in 1955. He moved the Corps to Nashua to expand the opportunities for more youth in the area […] ... Read the rest of the article here - http://www.drumcorpsplanet.com/2015/03/in-memory-of-albert-berdie-laflamme/

I occasionally see people refer to a corps known as "INT". What corps is that?

Cleaning out my attic and have decided to get rid of a large number of old copies of Drum Corps News and Drum Corps World. From 1969 - 1990s, not sure if it's every addition but there are well over 200 copies. Not really looking to sell, but would be glad to send them to someone or something that would want them, providing they would pay for shipping, Not interested in shipping individual copies. Giving this a few weeks, than putting them in the garbage. Leave message here if any interest.

Here is this season's caption point update schedule. Starting points: 150/120/95 1/25: 151/121/96 2/1: 152/122/97 (I'm doing the second one earlier than normal so that corps competing in the western regionals aren't excluded from having a point increase before that event) 2/15: 153/123/98 2/22: 154/124/99 3/1: 155/125/100 (Final update)

i'll send you a treat in your mail box

This I & E is a well run Contest/Show. It is at a nice location. Good food and drink. Meet up with many people, Big Names and those that don't get out a lot also. I have been to this BHoF Metro Regional. Enjoyed it very much.

I don't have a problem with them not having camps in Wisconsin. They have two shows and rehearsals there during the summer.

Isn't that the truth....especially when a simple search of this very forum will show different...

Or might it simply be due to Jim Ott just being a genius and Spirit's horn line, under Jim, just being that good?

Not true - see here http://www.dci.org/news/view.cfm?news_id=e2c4f8f2-7d6e-46df-8122-3de594e9157c

It's great to see the Madison cymbal line again!

If only three corps advanced at DCA, Cabs would have WON Prelims and finished LAST at Finals. In that sense, ordinals can be deceiving when a quantified "third" becomes a qualified "last." Aside from that, every corps knows where they are and in what direction they are going. If I lived anywhere near St. Peter, Minn., I would be a septuagenarian rookie in The Govies this summer. They are small, they are good, they are always getting better, and they have fun performing an entertaining show every time out. You can't have any greater purpose for belonging to a corps ! Joe Dz in NJ

I agree that the OP may be referring to treatment by instructors rather than actual work and break times. I have watched a number of corps rehearse over the years and while I have not witnessed what I would call out and out abusive behavior by instructors in recent years, drum corps is not for the faint of heart. I have heard some comments from instructors that I believe are obnoxious and not helpful, but people who march with these corps love the corps and the instructors. My guess is the relationship that develops is critical. Some names known and not so well known may not have an overflowing amount of finesse, tact, and diplomatic tendencies, but corps members know they know how to bring out the best in a corps and have their backs. That can make a difference.

I'd add Cadets to the list. The 2013 line blew me away when I saw them live. Even more powerful sounding than Crown and Devils. That was a heck of a year for horn lines...

ok I went to the Orlando Regional and what a show!!! saw some guards that will compete for wgi championships!!! Tarpon Springs- they were amazing!!!! mother nature show!!! so much going on in one show this one rivals Cavies 1983 show as the best show ever Please watch this guard. Flanagan HS- Hereos show another amazing show by this guard it was dark and edgy. Lyman- love this show at the end there is glass shuttering on the floor. and what they are doing with their prop is amazing!!! don't understand the low scores they should be at least 4 points ahead of their competition in their catergory Braddock- kind of disappointing this year their design is a little bit too out there. OTV- their show is about chimney sweepers a lot of fun and a lot of high risk movements Lake Howell- within these walls it was a beautiful show to watch wgi should watch out for them!!! Park Vista- wow so many high risk moves in class A a little bit dark and edgy show congrats to all of the guards that competed you guys were amazing and I will be at UCF regional march 21st

Well that was easy.

Drum corps is insanely challenging and physically/mentally/emotionally exhausting, regardless of what the rehearsal philosophy is, so take that as you will. That said, based on watching rehearsals and talking to members/staff, I'd say Blue Devils and Cavaliers walk-the-walk when it comes to the "Work Smarter, Not Harder" mantra. All the alums I know from each corps had great experiences with how rehearsals were run.

I wouldn't mind getting 1966 - 1968 back. Not the Drum Corps papers, the years. Like a big mulligan...

INT can even be waffles. Its food for thought. INT helps get us fans thru the offseason when all the Corps go into caves for their annual hibernation and Cones of Silence ensue throughout the Drum Corps Kingdom. MLB has offseason Spring Training , Free Agent Signings..etc. The NFL has preseason games, Draft coverage, etc... The Colleges have non stop Recruiting news, and Letters of Intent Day, etc. We have INT. Invisible, but quite symbolic and quite fitting for the offseason of DCI Drum Corps when we get right down to it, imo..

I was told the music that they are playing this year has never been performed on a field by a band or a drum corps.

I'm betting that a lot of corps will try and stay in the Charlotte area. It's only a 90 min drive to the stadium from Charlotte, and traffic on a Sunday will be non-existent. As for hotels, stay in Greensboro or Charlotte. There isn't a lot to choose from in Winston Salem, especially near the school. Friendly Center in Greensboro is a nice shopping center with some good restruants, "Lucky 32" is one of my favorite places to eat the in 'Boro, great upscale southern food (try the fired grit cakes). Stamey's is good old fashioned southern BBQ, and there are a few places in Lexington (names escape me). Give yourself a couple extra minutes to get to the stadium as it's a bit off the beaten path. Not a lot of food in and around the stadium area, but about four miles up the road is downtown Winston Salem, which has some great restaurants (including Mellow Mushroom). This will be a great show. Fantastic venue for drum corps, easier access to seats, and NO MORE TOKENS for food!!!

I remember when: "ships were wood, and be burly men manned the Sails" and " You can't paint 2nd place on the Base Drum". (well at leased the one about the Base Drum anyway.) When I started in Drum Corps you made GOALS that were possible. At Both VFW and A.L. States. Our first goal was to make the Top 10. (New Jersey had from 15 to 20 Corps in STATES every year. Now remember, N.J. had from 3 to 4 National Contenders every year( between 1956 and 1976). Then you could have 3 or 4 more that gave them hell each year. Keeping those above on their toes. To keep them on improving . When Corps like ST. Vincent's, Blessed Sacrament, Audubon, and St. Lucy's left us. That is where the Corps like Bridgemen and Muchachos stepped right up from. So any way. The next Goal was a whole lot harder. Make the TOP 7. So Between , 12 and 15 Corps went to a State Contest and KNEW there was NO WAY ON EARTH you could Win. But we could Watch and Learn from all those Great Corps. Then one day WE could Step Up to our Next Goal.

Frankly, they get too much attention for the little they do. Now, the Couchmen on the other hand....

The Erie Thunderbirds have 4 XL Bass Drum carriers for sale. They were purchased as a set. We are pricing them to move at $200.00 plus shipping for the 4.

Racine Scouts, Drumline. Hello everyone. My name is vincent Coakley, and I was recently offered a contract into the Racine Scouts, an Open Class corps. I got into drum corps at a young age, and being able to march in a corps would be a dream come true. I'm currently 15 years old, and a sophomore in high school. If you'd like to donate, go here: gofundme.com/Vincent I'm already reached the $1,000 mark, but any size donation is still appreciated. If you'd like to contact me, my email is vincent.coakley7@gmail.com. Thank you for taking the time to read over this.

The DCE European Championships can count on an impressive list of participants next year. Alongside familiar names, Drum Corps Europe will also welcome a number of new participants in 2015. 37th Kingswood from Bristol, Blue Diamonds from Nienhagen, Cadence from Surrey and Berkshire, and Revolution from Queensbury will be making their first trip to the […] ... Read the rest of the article here - http://www.drumcorpsplanet.com/2014/12/impressive-names-at-2015-dce-european-championships/

I predict this thread will evolve into an online battle with no resolution.

I was wondering, because I am kinda new to this, how do I delete a Topic that I started?

SDCA Texas is announcing the formation of a The Texas All Stars Alumni corps. This will be a parade corps comprised of former members of any corps. The corps will perform at parades around Texas, and is open to anyone who wants to participate. The first performance of the corps will be on May 2, in Corpus Christi Texas(on the Gulf of Mexico), for the Buccaneer Days Night Parade. The Buccaneer Days Night parade, draws approximately 200,000 people, and would be a good way to gain exposure for Drum and Bugle corps in Texas. We are planning a entire weekend of fun for anyone who wants to join us. We are planning to participate in other parades/events, in other parts of the state. if you are interested , send me a private message, for more info.

Practice was absolutely fantastic for me- a great musical experience interacting with the guys in the trio for an hour. Just mind-blowing. If we can get this down tight and really make it happen, we just might knock the place out at Profiles. :)

I listened to my CD's, but backwards. Funny thing...I distinctly heard the narrator intone "Abe is Dead...Abe is Dead...Abe is Dead...."

My daughter wants to learn rifle, but is too young to march with (and learn from) her High School marching band or a drum corps. Are there any resources out there to teach basic technique - books, quality videos, etc.? I have been unable to find any instructional works by any drum corps, and of the vast number of YouTube videos out there, they certainly vary in quailty, so if there is any particular YouTube video series you are aware of we could look up, that would be great. Thanks.

I found an old video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JWVHzPbVcJ0 It`s all that plus hard work, fun and balance. There`s so much physics and physical going on in guard; balance is the keyword. I learned more about music in winter guard than in drum corps. Too bad about copyright rules. Listen to the music and move to the music from your heart.

I'm a junior, and most of my college choices are in or around the Chicago area (Northwestern, UChicago, Loyola) so I was thinking I'd audition for corps closer to there, like Colts or Phantom Regiment (but not this year). The thing is, I really wanted to do winter guard as well, and Northwestern doesn't have a winter guard anymore. I'd rather join a well-established organization but the problem is that there aren't any Independent Open or World guards in Chicago anymore. Phantom Regiment seemed to be a good choice but it doesn't look like they've been a functioning winter guard since 2007. I can't find any information on why it folded a second time and I'd like to know. They weren't bad or anything so why would they fold? It beats me. Brownie points if you can tell me of another guard that would be somewhat close to commute to if I were to go to a school in Chicago.

Looking for uniforms and flags for the Winter Season? Take a look at our gently used flags that are looking for a new home. Flags are standard sized for a 6 ft poles. Gently Used Flags Costumes come in a variety of sizes and styles and are in sufficient quantity to meet the needs of any size groups. All costumes are professionally made and will greatly enhance your productions with mixed textures and vibrant colors. Gently Used Uniforms If you have any questions, please contact Sherri Peterson Kickapoo HS Color Guard Director

Hi, We are a music and arts educational program in Baltimore City, MD and we are searching for a guard instructor. As we continue to grow we have moved to a larger facility and we are looking for a guard instructor to help us with the continued growth of our program. We have a great team, great facility and equipment to begin with. All we are missing is you! WHO WE ARE LOOKING FOR: Persons with a clean record (no convictions of sexual offense.) Experience with teaching youth groups ages 13 to 22 is preferable. We are open to giving a chance to those looking to get into the field for the first time. Prior marching experience is required, and drum corps experience is a plus, but no teaching experience is required. You must be a team player who is patient and takes the initiative. You must be interested in assisting us with furthering the development of our program to a statewide color guard and marching band program. The ideal person will need to be enthusiastic, works well with youth, and loves everything there is to love about color guard, marching band, and drum corps activities. You will be responsible for teaching a range of experience levels (mostly beginners), creating routines, and working towards developing a color guard within the marching band and developing a winter guard program. The ideal person should understand that our primary goals are to 1) provide positive life-changing educational experiences for our members, 2) entertain our audiences, at football games, parades to band competitions, and 3) promote the traditions & culture of the marching arts. *The ideal person should be comfortable working with a student ‘Field Staff’, which consists of Drum Majors & Section Leaders. The ability to motivate others to grown as leaders is essential. Experience with drum corps, winter guard and/or marching band is ideal though we are open to similar type experiences. Please list any experience in the following areas: rifle, saber, flag, choreography, dance/movement, gymnastics, makeup and hair, special effects, drama/theater, and costume design. Thank you for reading our message and we hope to hear from you soon. Respond to us at: themarchingelite@gmail.com

Voidmen, We realize this is a funny name but a good one. We are a group trying to fill the void of drum and bugle corps in Indiana. We are based in the former brass capital of the world, Elkhart, IN. The goal of our organization is to provide a gateway to the wonderful world of Drum Corps to local band geeks. If you would like to help out, you can work as a voulenteer at out home competition, on the road, by donations, or even by buying a Voidmen t-shirt. If you are interested in auditioning for the corps, please email us at Here!

I've been wanting to get some stuff for my guard, and Algy has the only flags I see that I think would go with our show, and I've never ordered from Algy before and I'm unsure of their quality of craftsmanship. I usually order from Bandshoppe, and I love their quality and quickness. I just wanted to make sure, before ordering, what Algy team is like! Thank you!! Nick