Dmlkmen

Revolution came to the West Coast in 2010. Seeing San Anotnio is early, maybe Crossmen and Revo come out to California, along with the two G7's next year? What if Stanford, then the follwing weeks' SoCal tour looked like this: World Class BD SCV Troopers Crossmen The two G7 corps from midwest or east Cascades Maybe Academy and Pacific Crest at Stanford? Plus the Open Class corps from California and Revolution. All Age: Renegades and Dream I think early season would be pretty good out here. Also, California has the OC corps, All Age, and some World Class sticking around past July. Still can have some great shows out here, even when BD and SCV leave.

It did feel like a historic event at a lot of the big shows they were at that year. Good way of describing it. Allentown, Finals.... . Just to add something else that stands out from that year ....if I remember correctly they sold autographed drumheads from the snareline. They were getting a pretty good price for these too. This all sounds like some sort of rockstar status- But that is the "connection" I think you are referring to. People were very into that show and really a lot of their shows from that decade in an indescribable way. Just had to see em live...

I see your point there, and generally agree. The two literal Americana type shows from them in recent memory (1995 and 2002), I think were good choices for those years. Considering it as a reflection of those years and times, (50th of V day & 9/11) they fit well. But seeing something like this again in 2011, for a whole show, with so much literal Americana- Yeah, I agree with you. The Americana feel in what I would like to see in them, is less literal. Maybe something in a undiscovered Copland piece, a Holsinger piece, even Ives. Not literal, but still pertaining to an American feeling in the music. Something like 87 and 88 was. Not so much 96- (leave that to Troopers now). Cetrtainly, a whole lot less or not even relating to 95 or 02. Rather hard to describe in words. But hopefully the shows or composers I am talking about, help create the picture.

I liked the undiscovered Bernstein direction they were pursuing in 2009, before they settled on WSS. Thought they were going to give us something like Chichester Psalms, Mass, more from Jeremiah etc. in that year. I would still like them to try that idea going forward. Maybe some undiscovered Copland would be cool too... something like SCV 98. A Holsinger revisited piece, (To tame the Perilous Skies). I would love to see that again, if they decided to do a retro piece. I would also agree with prior posts, of having those mello runs back, incredible drill like 98, or a show with some Americana mixed in.

I had my favorite, or favorites: 1998 and 1993. 1998 for Rememberance. 1993 for Strwaberry Soup in the rain at Finals, But really, having gone through that decade seeing them live, I woule vote all 10 years simply for the excitement they gave the fans in the stands.. 1995...Allentown....the loudest roar from a crowd I have ever heard. Seeing all their shows live from 91 on, I could always sense anticipation before they came onto the field....This anticipation grew from the stands, as Madison would form the line from the end zone and march to the 50. I think thats why this year was so good for them. It brought "that" feeling back. Like they are now the corps that is gonna set things off- or get the party started.- Or as Rondinaro said at the end of most of thei performances that decade- "this place is electric". I am sure there are many threads on DCP over the years that have talked about Madison in the 90's. In the process either describing what that feeling was, drums, high sops, great park and bark moments. or otherwsie. In my contribution to that, I am happy to have been able to see what they gave they at the time. It was something special.

Absoulutely Yes. Was very happy to hear they were playing Bartok, when the show was announced. Anticipated great things from them this year. First time seeing it live at Walnut, it lived up to those expectations. Like last years comparaisons with Cadets 87, I get a memory of Star 93 and Phantom 01 when watching- However, I think SCV still makes it their own, and does an extraordinary job. Blown away at the baritone sound this year. In the lot when warming up, they sound as one. The solists, or duet that is played in the beginning is outstanding. One of my favorite shows ever.

Two times Live...Early Season in Cali First time was up close. I sat low in the stands at Walnut. I tried to focus on the music, being that close- but other things came into my view as the show went along. I listiened to the melodies form the horns and the pit parts. First impression was- "####, they are loud!"- (as I think many in the stands would agree upon first impression). Second thought was how in the world there was no phasing. This because it seemed like each section of the hornline was playing their own melody- and with that- it seemed there was nothing to gage feet/beat on. Somehow, and amazingly feet and music were all fitting togehter. It sounded like there was no "straightforward" tune happening for a lot of the show- just many parts moving at once. But it sounded incredible. Third impression was- that jazzy piece with the fingers snapping and dancing...happens in the middle of the show- really enjoyed that. Shortly after, drums throw down in a solo- and that night they were on fire. First viewing- there was so much going on visually , it is almost impossible to take in. However, I did take some music with me. Overall, found it necessary to see it from a different perspective at Riverside the next night. The second viewing I was up near the "inverted" press box at Riverside. From this view- I saw the drill, forms, and basically what was happening on the field with the mirrors. I began to understand the show, and really, the demand or individual repsonsibility. I heard the strains of La Suerte in the opener that I was hoping to hear. I was amazed at how the opener was arranged musically particular in the mellos. I was also amazed at the closer. I made out how the various sections of the hornline were playing so many different things- only to come together again and close out with the ending of La Suerte. After that viewing, I made my way out to the lot- and saw a lot of members around the equipment truck. I made a point to say "Wow. Great Show" to a cpuple BD trumpet players. I was totally impressed with what theywere doing. and found a new understanding from the show, after that viewing. As for live vs. video- I agree there is a difference. Seeing this one live, you get the mosntrous sound coming at you- as well as understand all the details of what each individual is doing on the field. Simply because there is so much going on...video will never do it justice. I thought the same thing about BD 94...lucky to see that one live too.

Lee, and others- There is a lot of good things in the world of the California DCA representation right now. I am sorry to hear the rumor was even mentioned of Gades not coming, because the positive things have far outweighed the negative out here, this summer. I know we know it- and really are not even thinking about that train slowing down.... I noticed not much has been said in these posts about whats been happeing out here, up to this point. But., I think we all have had a lot of fun out here so far in "First Tour". Ie: Dream and Gades had a great time last Sunday playing at the Santa Monica Pier at a party organized by Sin City Regiment. Combined horn and battery arc on the beach was great- plus hearing the shows front and center in the arc was goosebumps. Lots of onlooker s from the pier- and some great exposure. Absolutely, a great time. Freelancers Alums put on a fantastic show at the DCI show at Paramount HS on Saturday night. These guys have a great sound this year - Will love the mini corps. IMO, as a participant in Dream, it s been a good summer so far. Exceptions being the heat. ..Gades had it in Stockton, (from what I heard from you guys)... and I think what we all went through with the heat in Corona- (plus "that" traffic on the 91)- And that bus ride for Dream.....yeah. Ok, take that out, and I think we have had a great season so far. Most of all- the California family has partied together- new friends emerged & old friends relived good times. We cant wait for Rochester. See you all there.

Phantom Regiment, beautiful show. especially your opener and closer. two of my favorites ever. Thank you. Euphs and flugelhorn solist...gorgeous sound this year. SCV- Incredible show. Baritones, you are it. Thank you for the that rich sound. And thank you corps for taking on this piece. You have one of my all time favorite shows. Crossmen- Your take on Metheny is wonderful. Thanks for bringing back that music to the field this year.

I like the Top 5 of 2001. Especially Blue Devils (Awayday Blue) and Cadets (Juxtaperfromance). Phantom Regiment from that year is honorable mention, as I am still amazed by the arrangment and playing of that Bartok piece. Phantom Regiment 2004 (Music of Astor Piazolla)- Maybe a dropoff to many, after 03- but the closer, and the push into Adios la Nino is a great moment. Along with the ballad (Oblivion), its one of my favorites of the decade from them. Also: 2005 SCV 2002 Crossmen 2006 Academy

I dont know, but I gave them a lot of information about it. They first saw our Kingsmen banner at a pre show gathering. It was at a restauirant across from the theater. Management allowed us to hang up our banner, as many of us have met up at their restaurant, pre show, for several years. The largest was about 100 of us, in 2008, when Kingsmen were in the Countdown. This attracted some on lookers at the mall, and helped us pass out some flyers regarding the corps. I gave them a copy of the Kingsmen 2007 DVD performance, as well as two flyers with information on where the Kingsmen Sr. were performing. This included Walnut, Riverside, Nor Cal shows, ELAC, and Los Amigos HS. I may not have seen them personally at the Cali shows, but, as with anyone you are intorducicing corps to, you always hope to have planted a seed in them, to become a fan or participant.

Met a few out here in SoCal last year, who had come because they saw the ad while watching Fathom's Opera events. They were sitting next to me at the Countdown. Asked me a few questions in between the shows.

Absolutely. The Incredible and the upcoming EVO (4G), are also great devices.

Saw San Diego and Pasadena. For me, San Diego gets the nod as the better show. Spent the day in La Jolla, and drove a little further down that evening to the stadium for the show. Still under the belief that San Diego would make a great DCI Finals.....weather wise, activities...really cant be beat. I enjoyed each show, in particular, that each corps had room to do its own thing as an encore. I also like many of the shows that each corps had in 2004. I am assuming the reasons for the tour were for the West Coast to finally see some corps at their peak of perofrmance- set the stage for shows later on: DCI West and Rose Bowl 2007- and for the corps to have some fun and downtime/R&R in Cali. I don't know, but geographically speaking, (to Indiana) and for some of the same reasons- a tour of Canada? There is a show in Calgary... I think its called the Stampede?? Happens most years in August. 2012 will be the 100th year. Winners of the field show and parade are awareded prize money, according to the website.

2000-2009 show anthologies- on DVD and CD- sold individually or bundled. Maybe some thrown in Concrod Pavillion, or special recordings from the decade thrown in as "Special Features". Cadets have a few of these for the 80's and 90's. BD had some from the 80's and 90's as well. I know there are downloads, Ipods, what have you out there, where downloads of these things can be done- and people can make their own compilations. Also the tour DVD's. But, I think some people might like to have a decade to own, on one disc. Phantom Regiment of the past decade would be my choice for this type of souvie. I would second the post, that mentioned the "special recordings", particualy from the Concord Pavillion. Really liked how The Blue Devils 2004 CD had some Pavillion and other warm up stuff, mixed in.

Very nice to know that there will be that "must have" loud theater sound at the Countdown event this year. Looking forward to be able to "hear" the best theater experience possible. Great news. Thank you for your work on this. Looking forward to getting the Blu Ray as well.

From the DCA persepctive, the health, friendships, and ability to get out there and do it, would be my top reasons. Also, as a working adult, with mortgages, rents, stress etc- being a part of a group of like minded people, who enjoy an activity as much as you- Thats what its all about to me. Particuarly in LA where finding that group to hang with, can be difficult for a transplant from the east coast. West Coast....yeah, a little different from the DCA shows of the east. Personally, I don't mind having to go on in 100 degree "dry heat" at Riverside or San Jose. Or having the sun in my eyes. Nor being on first at 5:30pm. I am just happy to be out performing, and getting the opportunity to do so. Renegades, Dream, Kingsmen Alums, and now Freelancers Alums, represent out here. And its cool that a lot of us are connected in different ways from marching in different places with each other. It feels like family when we get together at shows or post shows...that to me is the fun part. I am sure the latter about "family" is true in other regions of the country as well. Marhced Kingsmen Sr. last year, and Dream this year. And loving it.

SoCal Dream announced rather early this season and has had several other threads on their upcoming season. The announcement thread for Necrology is from October 19. Good stuff about the show in that thread. Including a link to the compsers Myspace page, to hear a wind ensemble playing Necrology. I am having a great time with the corps, so far this season. I think you will like what you hear from us this year. BTW, good luck Shenandoah Sound. Its good to see NoVa with a drum corps. I look forward to seeing you all in Rochester.

Thanks for letting me know. Good to see that.

1, World and Open Class Finals. If we cant do Top 12 for some reason, then Top 6 or 7, (as it was on PBS back in the day). 2. More "offseason" selction. Maybe release a "from the vaults" or historical video, once a month, from September-May . This, so we can have some new stuff during down time. I am thinking this to be like the Blue Devils 1991 tour video, (which I loved) last year. 3. Field Pass, on location at Winter Camps. I realize I am asking for a lot there, and perhaps the corps might be more content to release video/audio themselves. But, I would find it more enjoyable as a whole, for Dan to make an appearance, and do some December-April interviews. Make Audio for free on the website, as the Field pass is now. Video, if applicable, would be on the FN. 4. A vignettes feature. The "side stories/vignettes" per year, as represented in the DCI telecast on PBS. Ie; Wayne Downey explaining the Blue Devils 1993 priogram, in vignette on the 1993 telecast. Also, the I&E segments that were part of 1990 and 1991 telecats. 1994 had one about Star. Good stuff, which I think is often left out in explaining some key elements from a given year.

I am really impressed that Northern Virginia is starting to get some exposure for Drum Corps. Between these shows, and the emergence of Shenandoah Sound, I see some good things happening. The programs mentioned suroounding the Wakefield show (MENC) and a clinic by Phantom Regiment), are fantastic. There are so many great music programs in and around the area, and many good musicians in the public schools of the area that will benefit from this. One of the better shows I have ever been to, was at Garfield HS. Saw a show there in 1999 which included SCV & Cadets. Sat about 7 rows up, and remember feeling I was right on top of the intensity of both of those performances.

Star of Indiana 1990- Belshezzar's Feast -The first chords of the opener. -Arrangement of the horn book -Mellophones - Drill - The end of the second movement- perfectly controlled in the hornline and feet. - The Closer- Emotional, Powerful, Impact,...and however many more adjectives to describe exctiement. Its all there. Side Note: -Made me look in the book of Daniel to see what "Mene, Mene, Tekel, Upharsin" was all about.... -Curt Gowdy's "Gowdyism" - "Biblical England". Waiting to hear what Star Alumni will bring back to the field from this show. No doubt, will be a goose bump moment for me.

I would make the suggestion of no clarinets, flutes, saxes in drum corps. Most people probably wont know what it is, if you simply said "Drum corps has no woodwinds, brass only", just as they wouldn't undertsand other musical terms. Woodwinds to them, could be a trumpet. A flute could be a brass instrument, because it looks like it could be made from brass. And even if they know the difference between brass and woodwinds, they may ask why there are no trombones in drum corps. So maybe taking this into consdieration, just to differentiate, might be a good idea. I dont know your audience, but I would assume they probably put sports or languages ahead of music as their required electives in their post secondary education. So their actual music education might not have the depth as yours. Hip Hop. R&B or Club music, might be their general understanding of how music is, as it is their choice when they want to hear it. So what would you say to show them your point of view? Brass only, if anything, also demonstrates its uniqueness from any other form of High School or College Marching Band. High School or College Marching Band might be what "Joe Public, may be thinking your presentation will be about....before he knows what you have to show and tell. "Brass only". may also be a nice "umbrella', (beginning point, so to speak). With everything else falling underneath. Tour, Friendships, Gym Floors, and lastly coming together as a group for one common goal at showtime....That "tunnel" feeling- all very important too.

Granted these examples are personal ones I remember from school and some from corps- circa early 1990s. But when you mentioned this, I was thinking how much we, ( my other classmates at school/other corps members) helped each other learn. So, kids helping kids might help: 1. Does your band have section leaders that are juniors or seniors that can take freshmen and sophmores under their wing? 2. I also found a freshmen band camp to help me. To all of us, marching in a BOA compettive band at 13 or 14 years old, was a little intimidating. This camp helped us to get to know staff, and learn how the band wanted us to be and march. 90 percent of it was understanding basic block and technique. 10 % was getting to know how to read the dot book and grid on the field. This way when sophs, jrs, srs, showed, the fresmen were caught up. It occurred 1 week before everyone else arrvied in August. This way, all instructors could work one on one with all the new marchers. 3.March offs- Maybe sometime at the beginning of the season, and continually as the season progresses, do march offs. Staff closely monitors all the kids, and taps kids on the shoulder who miss commands, phase, etc. I remeber this helped with morale for the underclassmen. Particulularly when good freshmen marchers would beat a junior or senior. 4.Also I think peer pressure in teens sometimes can lead to good things. This if the good kids are leading the pack. Perhaps making them want to try harder by forcing them to conform through each other, (not staff or you all the time) can be a valuable tool to getting it right. Staff is there to help or clean, but some of that power is delgated to Section Leaders. 5.Visualizing and thinking postively to get it right. Thinking this basic block stuff sucks, is boring etc. Forming excuses that "my arms and feet hurt", my baritone or tuba is to heavy etc.- will manifest itself elsewhere on the field.. I dont think Juniors and Seniors should be thinking the latter, as leaders. 6. Lastly, there is punishment which forces the kids to get it right. Laps and push ups, for not hitting the line on correct counts of 8 to 5. Laps and push ups for phasing, toes not being up, brass horn carridge dropping, or all over the place. - Granted this treatment is not for every group. But I only mention it, because it happend with me personally. Although tough- I remember it defintely created that discipline in members, due to accountability. It also made us winners in the visual caption at most shows we competed- which was the reward, as we saw it, for all those laps and push ups.

I enjoyed this piece. Thanks for posting. For about the first two minutes, I was at a loss for thinking it could translsate. to the field. This, due to the rather quiet opening. But as the piece went on, I really liked how the layers of sound grew, and I could see how it would translate. Particuarly around minute 7. Thats about where it clicked for me. I can see needing a very good pit/front ensemble to make this piece stand out. Around the 5th minute, it seems to call for it. Also a corps that has been very good at going from soft to impact moments- with accelerandos and ritards-also needing to relate. For that, I think Cavaliers would do an outstanding job with this piece. I am thinking about their shows in 1989, 2002, (and somewhat 2003), in that comparison.