Phanmom

My oldest (who is a wind player and did not march drum corp) is a 2010 graduate of U of I, was a music ed major and now a band director, and played one of those Buffet Contra Alto Clarinets that were sold. It was a fabulous instrument. Different guys who were being considered for the Director of Bands position came in to conduct the Wind Symphony (the top performing band ensemble at the school) my son's senior year (he was conducted by all of them). They made a bad hire in my opinion, as I heard all of the candidates; and this turn of events makes us all sick.

Madison is not playing as clean as corps you are bashing, as well as not as clean in their drill. Love their show; however, you have to keep it real. Ya'all can't blame the judging. Bring it and leave it on the field.

Way to go Phantom. Corp worked hard on totally new ending. Can't wait to see it!

Really, this is all you all have to share?

Totally agree about the local contingent. It was definitely how I felt in the crowd. Won't be in Minnesota this weekend (haven't been to the Minnie show since the Monsoon rains a couple of seasons back), but will be at the Show of Shows DCI Premiere Event in Rockford. Just spoke with my son on the phone - at their practice at the Metrodome today, Brent Crocker was there and announced them (they were all wondering, "Is that a recording', and then came to talk to them. He said it was very cool. There will be a few changes from last night on Saturday. Look for a new 'big hit' in the program. Go Phantom, and all the corps! Have a great show.

Yeah, even though it was a PR home show, it did not feel like it.

Well, this is my first post. I was there last night (no secret, I am a Phantom mom). For me it always starts with the music. Do I like the show? Would I want to sit through it more than once (or go out for concessions during it). I can approach drum corp analytically by caption; however, I choose to post from the heart. Pioneer - This show seemed very uneven. I know their formula, and they are true to it. I think it is lacking horns (but not percussion). The kids are working very hard! Crossmen. I really liked their show. They have a lush brass sound, and the guard is integrated quite well in the drill. The music is pleasant on the ear. I thought that their opening set was definitely their strongest. My biggest problem always with Crossmen is that their energy is just not consistent throughout the show. The ending was just quite abrupt (was it really the ending???; oh yes it was). Lots of talent there. Spirit of Atlanta - Show is entertaining, music familiar, and a nice loud brass sound. They are really bringing it this year, although, I gotta say that the show is a little bit hokey for me (just my own humble opinion - crowd really seemed into it and liking it - lots of Spirit staff watching show near me). Guard does a nice energetic job, and costume changes are seamless (costumes very pretty). Great energy felt from the field. I have to say, though, I truly hate all the voice overs (in Pio or in Spirit). Voice overs never play well in Lucas Oil. Scouts - Not my favorite show of theirs (and I am a Madison fan). Definitely can see that changes have been made and need to be tightened up. Just don't feel that the guard is used well or integrated well. For me to not notice the guard, well either they aren't bringing it like they usually do; or maybe the drill/costumes are not utilizing them like they should. Love the lead trumpets - always a delight - true Madison sound. Crowd very partisan, loving them and wanting them to break 80 from what I heard around me. Regiment - what can I say - this is a great show (but I loved Juliet and Into the Light as much if not even more). Tons of changes are surely coming. Biggest on my 'want list' is for the closer to just be more climactic - it isn't a race to the end, it is a journey. You gotta take what made for a true goose bumps drum corp love moment during the last 90 seconds of Elsa's Procession to the Cathedral at DCI finals last season bringing people to their feet - and find a way to channel that into Nessun Dorma. This is one of the greatest arias of all time - make it memorable, make it hurt. This is what Regiment does - it moves people. My son did not feel any crowd energy in Salem when Phantom was performing (which is unlike what they have been experiencing on tour). Interesting................