Tim K

Blue Devils winning last night is not that surprising. I think we will continue to all kinds of reshuffling this year. Now I will say that while I won't see SCV's show live until Allentown, I know I will love it judging from Fan Network, but I don't think we will see it place higher than 3rd, most likely 4th. The will most likely top Cadets at least once possibly Crown and BD, but not at finals, perhaps a TOC show. I think we can predict Cadets will be a solid 3rd place finisher though they could make things interesting for both Crown and BD. I still think this will be Crown's year and I see no reason to believe that a show that many have said had flaws last evening, has already peaked. My guess is that Atlanta will be a good show for Crown and will go Crown's way. I wish the four were facing each other at the Saturday night show in Allentown. However if asked how low can Crown go, I would ay this year 2nd would be the lowest. Same would be true of Blue Devils. As I say this, with the way things have gone this season, anything is possible.

Blue Devils winning last night is not that surprising. I think we will continue to all kinds of reshuffling this year. Now I will say that while I won't see SCV's show live until Allentown, I know I will love it judging from Fan Network, but I don't think we will see it place higher than 3rd, most likely 4th. The will most likely top Cadets at least once possibly Crown and BD, but not at finals, perhaps a TOC show. I think we can predict Cadets will be a solid 3rd place finisher though they could make things interesting for both Crown and BD. I still think this will be Crown's year and I see no reason to believe that a show that many have said had flaws last evening, has already peaked. My guess is that Atlanta will be a good show for Crown and will go Crown's way. I wish the four were facing each other at the Saturday night show in Allentown. However if asked how low can Crown go, I would ay this year 2nd would be the lowest. Same would be true of Blue Devils. As I say this, with the way things have gone this season, anything is possible.

I attended the show in Manchester last evening. Some overall thoughts: Les Stentors: a favorite of mine for a number of reasons, namely they perform a good show and seem to enjoy what they are doing, and it seems to be a very member oriented organization. This year's show seems to have some more sophisticated portions and they seem to be stronger at this point of the year than they were last year in Indy which is a good sign. They also have some very enjoyable elements in this year's show namely a portion where the guard uses washboards as a prop and the drums then use the washboards to create music. the snare also put their drums on the ground, run in a circle while playing as rifles are tossed over their heads. They placed where I expected them to place but they still did a respectable job. Raiders: Have certainly improved since CYO Nationals when I saw them last. Their show is based on Poe's "The Raven" and there are some good moments where the percussion adds to the creepiness of the show (Poe's poem is supposed to be creepy, not the corps :cool:/> ) and the guard does a good job setting the mood. The music is original and the corps seems to find it moving. Again, the corps placed where I thought they would but I was surprised at the point spread (they should have been closer to Legends) Legends: Were very well received. Their show is based on "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow" with a young man portraying Ichabod Crane. The guard is dressed in late 18th century attire. The corps has some interesting brass work but a time slacked power, something that no doubt will be remedied by Open Class finals and prelims at Indy. 7th Regiment and Spartans: I expected the scores to be as close as they were, but expected the reverse order of 1st and 2nd. It's interesting, in Bristol I expected it to be 7th Regiment's night and Spartans won. Spartans finish was not as strong as their opening last evening, and their closing is where they have the potential to really pack a punch, where as 7th Regiment was consistent throughout. This may have made the difference. However, Spartans' guard was nearly flawless. This season will be another back and forth between these two corps and I think a big reason why both corps are so healthy is this rivalry. I felt bad that attendance was down, I'm sure due in part to the heat. They also had direct competition with DCA's "Mission Drums" being held in Lynn, MA that evening which was less than an hour away (many wanted to attend both). However, the crowd was responsive which is what matters most. A final note: Great job Muchachos. They host the show. The tickets are reasonably priced, the line for refreshments moved, and they have a nice program book for sale. Given the size of the corps, many of those marching were also working. It was a great evening.

I'm from Boston, and around here all Madison has to do is start their busses and the crowd is ecstatic. I also know when they come to Lawrence in a few weeks, their 75th anniversary will be celebrated at the encore in a way that I'm sure will only be rivaled by their hometown fans. And while I am hoping BAC will surge and they will be in the top 7, if it has to be someone else I certainly hope it will be Madison. Now I do agree there are some who have found Madison's success this year a bit of a challenge. It's a lot easier saying a beloved phrase about Madison shows of the past, claim they are still loved, but not as competitive. This year they are competitive. Some attribute their success to "early peaking," but those years they supposedly peaked early, did they peak early or just have a poor finals show? There is a difference. Now, as someone who read one way that the order will be determined and found out through DCP and verified by the DCI website that it would be done in another manner, I can feel your pain about order of appearance. Like I said I'm a BAC fan, and I'm not thrilled about their placement either. However, I don't think a conspiracy is involved. However, no matter where they appear, they have to place ahead of Bluecoats and Phantom for that to happen. I do not believe that has happened yet this year. They also have to hope there is no late season excitement from BAC, Cavies, and BK.While rankings can be helpful, what matters most what happens when you are face to face with everyone.

I am always a gracious guest, where ever I go, and I live in Massachusetts where during the Civil war, we were dreaded Yankees, so I resent that comment. Oh wait, I'm a Red Sox fan so if that distinction can be made, I agree. :tongue:/>

As someone who is into photography, I can say that drum corps and photography have a lot in common. Some of the "artsy" shots require more work, but people still enjoy a nice lighthouse with a crisp blue sky as a background. Sound like the drum corps striving for excellence and degree of difficulty as opposed to audience favorites. Does film produce a better shot and are we losing photography skills by not using film, or is digital only the way to go? Sound like Key of G v. B-flat? From what I have seen, Jolesch has produced some wonderful photos, especially action shots. They also capture emotion well, and it's not easy. I always have my camera along for a show and getting shots is always a hit or miss affair. I am not always as amazed at their portrait shots of the corps members. Whether this is the fault of Jolesch, or whether the corps do not give them enough time is a fair question, but most of them look little better than what you would get at the photo studio at JC Penney or Sears (if the still have the studios). If DCI has to find new photographers, I would suggest having a sports/action photographer responsible for shows. The skills that are needed for sporting events are the same for a drum corps show since movement is involved. For portraits and group shots, let the corps' find their own photographers who go good portrait work.

I grew up loving classical music, so for me it was love at first sight regarding Phantom. The first time I saw them live was at CYO Nationals, that year held at Harvard Stadium in 1977. The arrangements were more like pop music, not uncommon for the time, but performed so well. In 78 and 79 they began being truer to the intentions of the composers which was radical for its time (think Stravinsky in 78). Even though many corps use classical music, Phantom sets the standard. Personally I think Phantom does its best when it sticks to what is true for them. "Spartacus" in 2008 was as different as could be from "Turandot" in 2012, but both shows had Phantom written all over it. Now I thoroughly enjoyed "Juliet" in 2011 and am enjoying "Triumphant Journey." Both shows include film music which is again, well performed, but the portion of "Juliet" that was beloved was "Elsa's Procession" beloved in 79 and 2011, and this year, "Enigma Variations" is the musical highlight and certain to be a Phantom classic. I think returning to the classical cannon which Phantom does so well would serve it better. Closely related to Phantom's music would be their phenomenal guard. A good Phantom show has to have a combination of the dance moves, which this year are well done, but also intricate and difficult guard work, which is missing this year, but judging form the equipment work that is in the show, could have been a possibility. Still, even if this year's show is not pleasing all people, my guess is that Phantom will still place at least 5th in finals and in this year of surprises, who know what will ultimately happen.

All in what the timing and penalty judge saw. I marched in a CYO band back in the day and on a very hot, humid day my clarinet slipped out of my hand. The audience went Ooo..., I was told by instructors it was not my fault, and when scores were announced, the only group without a penalty? St. Joseph , Medway. This probably happened in 1977 or 78.

I love Troopers 79 show. The reason I used the word "controversial" is not so much a reference to the Troopers as much as the backstory. Crossmen were penalized and that put them in 13th. The penalties caused the controversy. My guess is a Crossmen alim can fill in the specifics.

You mean custom made in China Walmart baskets.

I agree but there is one factor that makes things different this year--the fight for the number 12 spot. We assumed that it eould be a Crossmen v. Blue Stars contest, then Troopers began to add fuel to the fire, now Colts are becoming a threat. Pacific Crest and Oregon Crusaders will be back in San Antonio and we can't forget The Academy. One of these corps having a surge in a caption in one show is not that impossible to believe. I also agree with one of your later postings. While I would love to see BAC in a better position, they are improving, people who see them perform are impressed, and the show is engaging. My guess is they are working on what matters most--the final stretch which for the Crusaders begins with their final home show in Lawrence followed by Allentown, Pittsburgh, and Indy. By that time their scores and placements will be better. Who knows, we may even see a surprise or surge in San Antonio!

I might also add Garfield Cadets, 1980. For one thing, they did not have a strong beginning that year, but they not only made finals but finished 10th, a jump from 16th the previous year, and returned after being out of finals for two years (78 and 79). If I'm not mistaken I think you can hear someone in the audience yelling "Welcome back Garfield." Of course they returned 1980 and haven't been away since.

Speaking from the point of view of someone who was at Beanpot and once lived in Lynn, wind was a factor at Beanpot, especially from Cadets on. Since we were in the middle of a heat wave, it was a welcome enhancement, but it caused some havoc for the corps and the recording. Another factor that wasn't as evident in the recordings but is always a factor in Lynn is the close proximity to Logan Airport. Planes are descending at that point, so much so that when I returned from a trip to Ireland, I could see where I lived from the plane, a bit too close for comfort. I can't recall if it was during Bluecoats show or Cadets that one plane was particularly loud.

Kilties received a "Wow they're back" in 1977, of course they also received a "huh, they're here" in 1978...but since I loved the old Kilties and miss them, we won't go there. I remember in 1980, Crossmen received a huge "wow they're back" from many fans, but I'm not sure if that should count since their 13th place in 1979 was rather controversial and they should have been fianlists. Most of the season they were close to 27th, Bridgemen, Guardsmen, North Star, and Madison and I'd have to go back to Corpsreps to verify, but I believe topped each of these corps at least once that year.However, last year they certainly deserved the "wow they're back" they received. I found last year's semi's performance really powerful. I had been hoping they'd do it and they did. Regarding Troopers, they still recall the "1979 Miracle" with fondness and I do like that show, but the reception they received in 2009 was amazing. I would have loved to have been in the stands when they returned to finals after 23 years.

I have only seen Spirit in the theater and via Fan Network and won't see them live until Allentown. Overall my thoughts regarding Spirit have been positive. I think they had the basics of their show ready for the season, and I expected it would be tweaked and some additions would be included, similar to "Lady Luck" last year and the "femme fetale" of 2011. That's what I do not see happening yet with this year's show. I do not see Spirit falling from finals, but I don't think we'll see upward movement either. I think Spirit made a good choice in using "Sweet Georgia Brown" but I think would have helped Spirit if it was a bit more retro, namely what the corps did in 1979 or 1980, using "Sweet Georgia Brown" in the manner that Madison uses their favorites from the past. However, this seems to be a season that will have a lot of surges, so "the South may rise again." Actually, since so many of the kids in drum corps today hail from Texas, Florida, and other southern states, just about any corps that improves could say the south has risen again!

I'm surprised to see Cavies and Bluecoats so close this evening. Actually, the surprise is more Bluecoats' score. While I won't say I find their show is my favorite this year, I do find it to be one of the most engaging shows this year. I've seen it live three times and each time I have a different feeling and opinion about the show's meaning. Each end of the season someone usually posts a "most underrated" thread and Bluecoats always seem to be the corps that is most underrated. I thought this year would be different but I think we'll see the same thing again. Now the Cadets/Crown tie is adding some spice to the season. While I thought this could be Crown's year and fully expect it will be, I thought we'd end up seeing a few challenges from Cadets and since I've been wrong so many times this year (don't judge--I'm not alone :tongue:/> ), which will include some excitement from BD and perhaps SCV.

You're correct, I didn't read the whole thing!!!!

I used AAA which gives the closest available. There were some places available at the low end and the very high end, but not reasonable good rooms at a mid-price. ]

Booked my Allentown hotel rooms last night. The closest good hotel room I could find for both Friday and Saturday was in Easton, PA. Everything in Allentown and Quakertown are already booked. There seem to be rooms for Saturday to Sunday, but not Friday to Saturday.

According to the DCI website, the results at Minneapolis determine performance order. For those that did not compete, and average of scores was used to determine order. So, if performance at Minneapolis determines the order for San Antonio, why are Spirit and BAC competing before Blue Stars and why are Cavies after Madison? Phantom should be after Bluecoats and Crown should be after Blue Devils. It also doesn't make sense if you look at average scores. In DCP's rankings, Crown is ahead of BD so they should appear last, Phantom is ahead of Bluecoats, Madison is ahead of Cavies, BAC and Spirit are both ahead of Blue Stars.

Interesting results. I'd love to be able to better comment but internet issues made seeing the show impossible.Thoughts 1. Crown should be pleased with their victory but nervous that BD was so close. Percussion may be their Achilles' Heel again. 2. Cadets should be nervous that SCV is edging closer. 3. I expected Cavies and BAC to be closer to Madison, though Madison placing 7th was not a surprise. I was surprised with BK. I would have thought they would have been closer to Spirit and behind BAC. I think the fact Cavies, BAC, and BK were all within a point could make things interesting this summer. 4. Troopers and Crossmen will keep things lively.

My predictions for Minneapolis 1. Crown, Cadets, and BD in first -third in that order. I do think during the season we'll see Cadets top both Crown and BD, and I think BD still has something to say, but I think it will be Crown's night with Cadets close behind. 2. 4-6 in order SCV, Phantom, Bluecoats 3. 7-9 Madison, BAC, Cavies I think that Madison still has momentum on its side, BAC will have fine tuned their changes and we'll see a bit more confidence. Cavies will show improvement. Note to naysayers: while I'm a BAC fan, I recognize that Cavies and BAC have something in common this year: only their most ardent fans seem to believe they will do anything this year. We've still got a month until Indy. Lots can happen and these will be the three battling for at least seventh in Indy. 10-11 Blue Knights and Spirit. Didn't have BK on my list of finalists when the season started, but I have to eat my words and say what a difference a year makes regarding BK. Perhaps Spirit belongs closer to the corps I have in 7-9 but I think their show will need more for that to happen. 12. Blue Stars. 13. Crossmen: note to Blue Stars--Don't take comfort if this happens. It's still early. 14. Troopers: based only on scores thus far, not a prediction for the end of the season. 15. The Academy 16. Colts 17. Cascades

Yes, that is true. Now I've yet to hear "Elsa" at a wedding though the more famous "Bridal Chorus" also from Lohengrin is a standard. A minister friend of mine believes it as appropriate for a wedding as "Poor Jud is Dead" from Oklahoma is for a funeral, but try telling that to a bride to be, or in many cases her mother!

I'll be interested to see how Bluecoats score this evening. Prior to last night I never would have thought Bluecoats and Cavies would have been so close. On another thread people stated that Cavies had a very good night, and Bluecoats had a rough night. I'm going to predict 1. Bluecoats 2. Boston Crusaders--if they don't place second, they'll still be the most talked about corps this evening, just look at their Facebook page for more hints 3. Cavaliers--will be neck and neck with BAC 4. Blue Stars--home field advantage 5. Troopers--just a smidge behind Blue Stars 6. Crossmen--just a smidge behind Troopers, all three within a point Now most of my predictions this year have been wrong, but at least I can say with confidence is Music City will win Open Class!