The Voice of Logic

It seems as though the corps runs most of its recruiting and rehearsal in Florida, so why not move headquarters down there, too?

This poses an interesting question, one that is representative of the problem at large: is there a universal definition as to what "drum corps" really is? Some people feel that drum corps ceased being drum corps when they added valves. Others feel it's the changes in drill design. Others feel it was the switch to Bb. Others feel like it was amplification. Others feel like it was the use of voice. Others feel like it's electronic instruments. Others feel like it's the addition of woodwinds. This is the heart of the issue. There are so many different stages in the history of the activity (as well as stages yet to come), and everyone has an opinion on each stage. Everyone draws their proverbial "line in the sand" at a different place. And that is exactly why changes will never be initiated by the fans. The lack of a truly unified opinion and the lack of numbers in any one camp makes any fan-motivated changes impossible. At best, in this scenario, a drop in the bucket may be accomplished. But real sweeping changes in DCI will never come to fruition. However, it does seem as though the "I hate woodwinds" theme runs strong through here, and I can't I say I disagree. It surely doesn't mean that the experience of being in a drum corps would change, as the members would still have everything to gain. But the addition of woodwinds in the near future could be truly catastrophic for the fan base of DCI. The age group that would be most enthusiastic about such a change would most likely not even be old enough to drive to a DCI event, nor have enough money to buy tickets at that point. This is the calm before the storm.

I'm not entirely sure as to why so many people on this board continue to subject themselves to something that brings them so much agony. If the stove is hot, don't touch it! If you don't like the way junior corps is going, then GO TO DCA! It's a wonderful circuit with many talented performers and nostalgic shows. "I love drum corps. And because I marched one year with the Honky Tonks from Winklerville, NY back in the 60's, my opinion is valid. Without me and my outdated opinion, there would be no drum corps! You need me! And even though I have participated in DCA, I still feel compelled to relive my tragic and obscure youth by arguing on a web forum about junior corps. I love the kids, but I hate the shows. My attention span is so weak that I can't even watch a drum corps show with some speaking as a part of the package. So I propose that we all band together and stop buying tickets for events that we hate anyway. And we should stop sending money to the corps we hate. Even though I love the kids and what drum corps can do for them, I'd rather stifle them into the ground financially because I don't like the words. If I can't enjoy DCI, then it shouldn't exist at all!" Please...get a grip, people...it's just drum corps. Yes, drum corps means a lot to me as a member of a top 3 corps, and as a lifelong fan. The experiences I've had are priceless and I would not trade them for anything. Have I agreed with all the elements of the shows I've been a part of? Definitely not. But that didn't stop me from loving every minute of tour. At the end of the day, we're not talking about the fate of the free world...it's still just drum corps.

Excellent post, Hurdra. Much insight, presented in an intelligent manner, logical solutions to the issue at hand. I wholeheartedly agree.

Begines writes: "I do not hate DCI, or wish to see it fall apart, or want it to lose money. I just see it becoming a new thing. Something I will not be a fan of. Something I will no longer recommend for people to see, brag about, or spend money on." Now either you can see into the future, and have seen the electronics-era of DCI first hand in a miraculous vision from God himself, thus allowing you to know, without dispute, that you will not be a fan of it...or that's just one of the most ignorant and closed-minded things I have ever had the privilege of reading. Jeez...at least wait until you SEE it before you HATE it. Then maybe your post would have some credibility.

Many corps do daily clinics during the course of tour. I know that The Cadets, Phantom, and Cavaliers do clinics. Check it out...they're great.

Really...what does this matter? This ruling affects kids who will march from 2009 onward, not Joe Schmoe who marched in the Podunk Valley Buccaneers for two years in the sixties. Yet most of the people on here have LONG since aged out. Why waste the time and energy fretting? If the future membership has an issue with these rules, then it's up to them to pursue action or not. This is their activity. THE ACTIVITY HAS PASSED YOU BY. Go spend time with your grandkids, and check out the new specials at Kmart for AARP members.

If you don't want your son being exposed to sex, then don't ever let him march...ever. In fact, keep him locked in the basement with the lights off. That should sufficiently keep him as sheltered and undeveloped as you prefer him to be. Man, when I turned 16, my parents kicked me out the door and said "Get a job!". Guess parents are different these days.

You'll learn far more and become a much better musician if you learn to transcribe it. Just a thought.

http://bmen.homestead.com/Calletpic_2_op_470x600.jpg

Bottom line: How can booing be stopped? It can't be. Deal with it. You can get upset, or you can laugh at all those idiots doing the booing.

Madison has never been known for extreme cleanliness, but the corps has always put the fans first. Whether they're a bag visually or musically, they're still fun to watch. And you know that when you watch that corps, every one of those Scouts loves their corps and their show (it always sounds like it!). Not that that isn't the case with other corps, but there ARE ring hunters out there. Kids march Madison because they love the IDENTITY and the history of that corps...not because they want bling on their finger. As a competitor of theirs in a top 3 corps, I'll always consider it a privilege to shake the hand of a Madison Scout.

Cadets have a lead whos absolutly frightening to listen to. Joey Pero is the only other sop I've heard in drum corps who is as musical and consistent as this kid. if you meet him ask him to play any MF solo and he'll do it perfectly.

I think drum corps might not be for you, unfortunately. You've got to be able to handle sun every day, for 90 days.

So basically he wants a DCA-type circuit, that tours.