Marc66
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Posts posted by Marc66
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Interesting. I haven't seen any shows this year yet thus why I read reviews like no tomorrow. But it is interesting that most of the reviews see something completely opposite then you. Others have said that the Cavaliers theme is not clear and it's not cohesive.
Thanks for the review. Shows everyone that everyone’s perspective is different.
There are some clarity issues in this show...that I will agree with other posters/reviewers. However, when I saw/heard the show, the clarity issues - in my opinion - were minor. In this day of themed shows, I look at shows from a theater director's perspective; does the product have an understandable beginning/middle/end, do the performers deliver the story line successfully, and does the show produce an emotional response. For me, these answers were all yes, to varying degrees.
I will agree with other folks in that this is a show that you either love, or hate. There is no like about it.
But, as you said, everyone interprets art in different ways...and, I love that folks have been respectfully giving their comments.
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HAIRBEAR...
I was probably a bit harsh and too "smartassy" with that comment...I'm sure that y'all will make considerable and fantastic progress as the season continues. Oh, and just for the record, my spouse - who has zero drum corps background, but who probably gives the best commentary on the corps - said that you guys have a show that he'd love to see later on this summer.
All the best as you guys continue...and, I'm definitely going to avoid stadium nachos from now on...
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Alright, I just got home from the Emerald City Artistry in Motion show in Dublin (suburb of Columbus), and I'm quite jazzed about the shows I saw tonight (for the most part)...and, with that, here is my take...
VENUE - This stadium is a great drum corps stadium. The stands rise nearly 50 rows high, and are on a nice/steep pitch. I was on side 1, at about the 30-35 yard line in row NN (basically - row 40) and had a fantastic view of the drills...I loved it, and a great value at $19.
SHOWS -
Cincinnati Tradition (all-age): I'm pretty much guessing this was their Opening Night show...and it was pretty obvious. Show was a Latin-style show that featured, "One More Time Chuck Corea," that was practically the same arrangement, note for note, played by BD in 1982 (complete with pelvic thrust and audible grunt). Musically this show was very hard to digest (and the nachos I had a few minutes earlier didn't help matters). Horns hacked/fracked and were trying to find notes the entire time (soloists somehow thought they were in BD and tried to play that way with, let's just say less than successful results).
Guard was small, and it was clear that they only had work for about 2/3 of the show. They spent the entire closer on the front sideline with handheld fans, which they used the entire time (and, with the really hot temperature at showtime, may have helped to keep them cooler).
Overall - this was a tough first show for them. And, if somehow this wasn't their first show, well then all I can say is, "OY!"
Legends (Open Class): The title of their show (Ruins), their choice of music (Vesuvius, Eruption [from ELP's Tarkus], Selections from Pines of Rome, Unstoppable, and Prelude-Main Title from Ben Hur, and what I heard/saw on the field...None of It Made Sense.
I couldn't make out the music they were supposed to be playing, their performance didn't evoke any of what it was supposed to, and the overall concept was completely lost on me.
That said, the kids are doing everything they can with what they've been given. Execution wasn't bad, but it's obvious they can't convey the emotion of the show when I'm sure they don't know what that emotion is supposed to be.
This has been a running theme with this corps. I've always found that they have talented kids, but they aren't being given a product where they can show off and maximize to their fullest. I've always found that the design team creates overly esoteric shows that sound great to them, but don't translate to the field.
Overall - Kids did everything they could, but the show design and concept just prevented them from showing off their talent.
Teal Sound: Let me state right up front, I really like this show. Well created/designed, it has a clear theme throughout, and it's something that I want to see again as the season continues. For their first statement in WC, they're making it a strong one!
Some folks have commented on DCP that their guitars were too loud and distracting. Tonight, they were at all. Balance wasn't a major issue, and their electronics weren't a negative.
The big thing holding them back right now is execution. Individual performer problems abound (especially in the visual department), their hornline was quiet reserved (which in this show should be the opposite), and they suffer from some stamina issues. But, nothing is too severe that they can't fix throughout the season.
Overall - this is a show/corps that has a lot of untapped potential. If they get it clean and fix the individuals, they can slip into semis.
Madison Scouts: I'm a Scout alum, I'm biased, and I admit that. I marched in the corps the last time they played Rhapsody in Blue (1985), and I was looking forward to seeing/hearing this year's rendition.
Simply - THIS SHOW ROCKED!!! It's good ol' fashioned drum corps...no cutesy title, no having to explain what's supposed to be happening...none of that. They enter the stadium, the play full arrangements of Slaughter on 10th Avenue and Rhapsody in Blue (not momentary excerpts), they're powerful, they have the swagger/aura back, and I LOVE IT!
Dirt? Of course. But everything about this year's corps feels like a blast from the past - retro style uniforms, familiar music, all sections strong...or, to sum it up: MADISON!!!
Overall - they're back in the top-12 this year. This show is really good...but, they do need to work on the little things - especially in the visual department - if they're going to get back to the upper-echelons of the drum corps world.
Blue Stars: The Houdini show is cute. However, it's one of the shows where there is so much happening from start to finish that you miss a lot. And, from what I can interpret, there is going to be more coming to help tell their story. The problem with that, however, is that there's just going to be more things to miss seeing from a fan's perspective.
However, there are some absolutely beautiful moments - the ballad is really nice, and the guard spinning silks with a key on them adds a nice touch.
Overall - this show is nice, but I just don't see it going any further - competitively, or otherwise.
Cavaliers: This is another show that has a lot of stuff going on. BUT, they do a much better job telling the story, "Mad World." This is another show that I really like because it has a clear theme, a clear beginning/middle/end, and is wonderfully performed. The all three sections mix/mingle throughout the show (the entire hornline joining the guard on rifles was a great moment) and compliment each other's strengths.
Overall - The Cavies are, once again, a solid corps with a great show. I don't agree with their score/placement tonight, but I have no doubt that they'll be solidly in contention for a medal.
Carolina Crown: To quote Dom DeLuise in the movie, History of the World Part 1, this show is "Nice. Not wonderful, not incredible, Nice."
There is nothing bad about this show - I like the music, the performance, and the performers...but, there really isn't any true WOW moments at any point. They had an OK run, but I disagree with their placement tonight...I don't think their performance tonight warranted First Place.
Overall - It could easily win the whole thing this year, but I personally don't believe this show will medal in Indy.
Bluecoats: There is something about this show that clicks for me in a way no other drum corps show in this era of electronics/synths/etc. has. I can't really describe. I personally thought they had a Gold Medal performance tonight. The show flowed well and was engaging from start to finish, and for me is one of the best Bluecoats corps in a long time.
I can see why they've been scoring as high as they have, and why the reviews on here have been raving...they deserve it, and tonight's performance just added to that list of positive reviews.
Overall - I can see Bluecoats as a dark horse for the title because this show is the real deal.
FINAL THOUGHTS: I'm glad I was able to attend because there's some #### good stuff happening this year. Every show has a lot more choreography with ALL the elements, not just guard...the entertainment factor is considerably higher than in previous years, and the quality of performers overall is fantastic.
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Just saw Madison's run through...
I'm not gonna review it now...but will wait for the show tonight.
HOWEVER, as someone who marched with Scouts the last time they played Rhapsody in Blue (1985), I gotta admit that I felt like I was in a time machine. There were a lot of similarities in the arrangements - right 'til the end. I had goosebumps, and even shed a few tears (seriously).
Now, I can't wait to see 'em in the new (retro) uniforms...it should be even more magical.
Thanks, brothers...you're doing the uniform, and those of us who came before you, proud.
MYNWA...
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This will be my first time attending this show, and was wondering who all in the DCP universe will be attending?
7:00pm
Dublin Coffman High School
6780 Coffman Rd
Dublin, OH 43017
It looks like a great lineup:
Cincinnati Tradition
Legends
Teal Sound
Madison Scouts
Blue Stars
Cavaliers
Carolina Crown
Bluecoats
Would love to meet some of you who I've seen post on here.
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The corps is traveling to California (Northern AND Southern), which is going to cost plenty. And, while they are not doing the full tour, there will still a significant number of other performances that will make for an active and full summer, in-spite of the July ending.
It's going to be a great return for Thunder...and a great way for anyone/everyone who wants to march, but simply can't participate for the entire summer.
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Brandt Crocker....You may take your rightful place in the DCI Hall of Fame!! (I could never announce it as good as, "The Voice.")
Congratulations!!!
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I was talking with Bill Clark, Brass Caption Head at Spokane Thunder, and he told me that there are still some available spots for this season (especially brass and guard).
I'm sure there are a lot of kids who really want to march this summer, but can't take the entire summer off.
Thunder is for you!
Their tour goes until July 17, which allows for anyone who wants to do drum corps, and who also needs to do other stuff (work/school).
Also - DCP UNIVERSE...pass this on. The corps is back, and building a great group...kids who march will have a great experience!
For more information, contact:
Director - Rich Harvey: director@spokanethunder.org
Brass Caption Head - Bill Clark: bclark@spokanethunder.org
Percussion Caption Head - Zac Robason: zrobason@spokanethunder.org
Color Guard Caption Head - Kathryn Lagge: klagge@spokanethunder.org
There are definitely a lot of great things developing in Spokane!!!
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Tom -
The local angle is definitely something I wish we could have done better...though it wasn't for lack of trying. While we did make outreach to local schools, it was something that hadn't truly been done for some time. One of the biggest problems was that a lot of schools/directors had a bad taste in their mouths about drum corps...not because of anything that was done by Capital Sound/Madison Scouts, but rather by other groups who housed their for shows. In trying to extend the proverbial olive branch, I was the recipient of many harsh words by directors who wanted nothing to do with the activity. Hence, getting the opportunity to recruit kids by visiting schools was practically non-existent.
To augment this hurdle, I worked hard to attract kids from outside of the area. The 2008 season drew a large number of kids from out of state, which at the time was a great thing. However, I'll be the first to admit that we didn't work hard enough to secure the necessary support for the kids to relocate here for the summer. This was one of those major issues that I mentioned in the previous post. In the past, local corps members housed the kids from out-of-the-area, and it worked quite well because the majority of members were from the immediate geographical area. However, in '08 the ratio of locals to out-of state members switched dramatically as we approached move-ins, and we were presented with a housing problem that pretty much hit us late.
I won't go into any further specifics. However, I really wish we could have made stronger in-roads with the local band directors/programs.
That being said, it was only one of the factors that led to the eventual decision to go inactive.
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As the Director when we made the decision to go inactive, let me address the question.
We (myself and the Board of Directors) collectively made the difficult decision because several unfortunate situations all came together prior the Memorial Day camp in 2008 to create a major problem. After looking at every possible scenario, we could/would not go out onto the road with so many potential obstacles that could have seriously jeopardized the well-being of our membership and organization.
As for DCI fining the corps. DCI has every corps sign a participation agreement stating that they commit to the finalized schedule. As Sam stated above, this is done so the show sponsors can go ahead with advertising, print programs, and preparing housing for the groups. If a corps withdraws after that agreement is signed, they are fined for each show missed. Capital Sound did not get fined at that time, rather the fine would be assessed should the corps reapply for DCI participation.
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Oh, we've met, Maggie - I marched in the TOR corps (contra).
Yeah, I've spoken with Rich, plus Bill Clark was my staff coordinator/brass caption head/arranger when I was with Capital Sound. Everyone is really jazzed about getting back onto the field. I can't wait!!!
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Maggie -
I heard great things about this weekend's camp from Bill Clark, and I'm excited that I'm going to be joining him to work with the corps starting at the next camp. There's definitely some wonderful energy coming from Spokane, and I'm looking forward to being a part of that excitement...and, I hope to see you when I'm out there.
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My favorites:
Phantom '08 & Crown '07 -
Both of these shows went beyond simply telling a "story;" they literally WERE a story (as defined by The American Heritage Dictionary: "a narrative, either true or fictitious, designed to interest, amuse, or instruct the hearer or reader.")
If these two shows were films, they could easily be nominated for Best Live Short Feature.
I would also add Blue Stars 2008 (Le Tour: Every Second Counts).
And, just to put 'em out there, my pre-Y2K favorites: Suncoast Sound '88 (Symphonic Dances for the Contemporary Child), SCV '89 (Phantom of the Opera), and Bluecoats '95 (Homefront: 1945).
(WARNING: Commentary relating to this topic ahead)
Now, someone previously mentioned, regarding Blue Devils '09, that if you watch Scott Chandler's interview on The Fan Network, the story of their show begins to makes sense. I have a problem with this, and I believe it's becoming a growing problem with the design aspect of drum corps these days.
To me, a drum corps show should NEVER have to be explained. Either the design is conveyed by the performers, or it isn't...I shouldn't need a designer to explain it to me.
This has led to, what I believe are, mediocre shows getting judged more favorably simply because a designer had to explain what the concept was because the judges, "couldn't figure it out for themselves," and, as an extension, neither could the fans.
A story shouldn't have to be explained...it should be conveyed in a way that almost everyone will understand it. If that can't happen on its own, then the designers failed in their mission.
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I'd like to present an entirely different take on this...
In the several years that I've been an instructor/director, I've always told kids who indicated a desire to audition for D-I/World Class corps to go audition anywhere they wanted...regardless of what talent level they possessed. Yes, I was up front about what the most likely result would be, but I also told them that they'd learn a great deal about how the "big boys" approached the activity...and, that they'd benefit by the process.
Telling anyone they don't deserve to even audition really is a slap in the face. A kid can have a bad video presentation...for any number of reasons, but now they're not going to get a chance to present themselves in-person. I can speak from personal experience.
When I auditioned for Madison back in '84 (for the '85 season), I went in not expecting to make it because I knew my talent level was not nearly as strong as a lot of other guys. And, my actual playing audition truly sucked. However, during the process, the staff was able to see me in-person, and was able to see how I worked during the entire audition weekend. I was rewarded with a spot that season, and it's something that I still remember fondly, and share with kids I work with.
I honestly don't like this, "video audition just for the right to audition in-person," garbage. It's another demonstration of how this activity just seems to getting more and more elitist.
I'm sure there will be plenty of disagreement here, but it's my honest opinion and feeling.
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I never liked the Mass Brass concept for a variety of reasons, for which I won't go into here (however, I will say that after last year's display at finals, I'm even more happy that this was done away with).
I'd love to see a return to the tradition of the full retreat: corps leave the field in the reverse order of placement - saluting the champions with either their corps song, or another piece. And, then, one of my favorite drum corps quotes: "(insert name of champion), the field is yours." This was always a great experience, and to see shoes with notes left by the age-outs, was always emotional.
Modernizing the activity with instrumentation, electronics, synths, etc., I'll live with. However, I sure as heck wish they'd bring back at least ONE tradition...the Full-Corps Retreat!
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I'm feeling torn - on one hand, it's absolutely AWESOME to have the Troopers back in the Top-12!!! Welcome back to the land where you belong.
On the other, I'm quite bummed Colts just missed. Several former members of Capital Sound, whom I had the pleasure of directing, are marching there and I really wanted them to feel the magic of Saturday night on the field.
Regardless - I'm sure Jim Jones is smiling down upon Indianapolis tonight.
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HOPEFULLY, HOPEFULLY, HOPEFULLY...We'll be seeing those classic Freelancer uniforms back on the field soon?
Always loved 'em...and looking forward to seeing them again!!!
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I just noticed on the Colts site about the passing of Greg Orwoll's father, Dean, this past week. From what I can see from the write up, I can understand where Greg got his dedication and commitment to kids and their development.
Just wanted to put this out into the drum corps universe...and, my prayers and well wishes, Greg.
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As an alum of SCV, I just received this in my facebook message box...I'm truly sadden by the loss, and mad because of the circumstances...
To his family, May You Never Walk Alone.
The following letter was sent to SCV today to notifiy of this sad news about a fellow alum.
It is with a deep sadness that we report that SoCal Dream has lost one of our 2008 battery members in a senseless gangland shooting.
Robert Rodwell, who marched snare with Dream, was shot last night just after returning home from a City Sound Drum & Bugle Corps Rehearsal. He was running an errand to the store for items to celebrate his daughter's birthday when a gang member dressed in black with hooded mask ran up to the car and asked him if he was a gang member. Robert repeatedly told him "NO I'm not a gang Member", the assailant didn't like his answer and shot him in the chest 2 times. Robert, who just recently celebrated his 29th birthday, passed away early this morning.
Robert was a former student of our director, Nate Lewis, marching in the City Sound Winter Drumline. He went on to play snare for the Santa Clara Vanguard and just last year joined SoCal Dream. He returned to City Sound this year as an instructor. Ironically, it was his dream to give young kids in his community alternatives to gang violence through music.
We only got to know Robert last year, but his huge smile, friendly personality, and love of music are the things I will always remember about him. Our prayers and thoughts are with his family and his extended drum corps family.
Rest in Peace my brother. We will hear your drumming in the heavens.
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I don't think the Colts will ever be "this year's Blue Stars". And its really not the kids' fault. There are some super talented kids there, but there are flaws within that organization that will not allow them to make that push. And its too bad too, because that Corps should have been "this year's Blue Stars" a long time ago.
Quite an interesting statement. I would be interested in hearing what you think are the flaws in the Colts organization. Flaws? You mean like how they have an organization that brings nearly 400 kids every year into the world of performing arts (Colts, Colt Cadets, their summer band program, and youth choirs)? Or maybe you are referring to the corps marching in the Presidential Inaugural Parade representing Iowa.
Wait, I know, it's that a vast majority of kids who march at Colts choose to age-out with them, rather than go ring chasing.
I've been extremely impressed by how this group is run. Greg Orwoll continues to be a prime example on how to run a corps. They are competitive without sacrificing their identity or mission, and if that means tetering on the edge of the top-12, so be it. However, I also know that there have been some tweeking of staff and design, which should translate into a product that balances competitiveness with maintaining their overall identity.
My point: I hope the Colts continue their mission of putting together a first-class organization where kids can develop, grow, and prosper in art...and, into their future.
To paraphrase the Outback Steakhouse slogan: No Flaws...Just Right.
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I was also able to make it to this performance and I have to honestly say that this year's Colts & Colt Cadets both are flying out of the gate...especially the Colts. As mentioned above, they played throught the entire show and it was quite good for April. Their show, Fathoms, is not simply another drum corps show with a water theme. Even in this early stage, the music was able to conjure actual water/ocean/sea voyage images that were quite exciting (I like music that can get both my emotions and thoughts stimulated).
Now, I'm looking forward to seeing the visual package because, if it's up to par with the music, the Colts should have a competitively successful year...and they are DEFINITELY going to be entertaining.
Just my 2 cents...
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it will be difficult for the powers that be to completely erase the debt that is the Open Class as long as BD, SCV' & the Colt's organizations have Open Class units.
You need to get facts before making a post like this. The Open Class completely erased their deficit last Summer. There initial target was two years, and they did it in one. There were the only entity within DCI that was in the black.
Along with their decision in '08 to become Open Class, they chose to make the move to reduce judging panels at certain shows...a move that was, then, echoed by World Class. This allowed Open Class to, a) reduce the budget required for judges (without having an adverse effect on scores or judging commentary) and, b)demonstrate to DCI that the Open Class was truly willing to make bold decisions for the good of the entire organization.
While Open Class is considerably more difficult to operate because attendance at Open Class only shows is weak, to say the least. Promotion of Open Class shows is even weaker...and, with the attitudes of a lot of the drum corps community (not directed at you, HardCorp) that going to an Open Class show is beneath them, Open Class will continue to struggle until people wake up and realize that the Open Class product isn't the chumm of the activity...it's a great product that is delievered by members who work their collective butts off just as hard as their WC peers.
OK...Rant over!
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The evaluation process involves a site visit by DCI to a camp, and that isn't usually scheduled until after the January meetings so that the groups being evaluated are able to get a few camps under their belt before being visited by DCI's evaluation team.
Then, there is a recommendation sent to the Open Class Advisory Board for a final vote.
I'm guessing it will be mid-April before any announcements are made.
Penalties
in DCI World Class Corps Discussions
Posted
To address a few of the issues listed above -
At the 2-minute mark of the corps entering the field, the announcer is supposed to announce, "Ladies and Gentlemen, please welcome to the field, from (insert hometown here), (insert corps name here).
Then, at the 30-second mark (I believe), the announcer asks if the corps is ready - at which point, the d.m. salutes and the announcer says, "presenting their show, 'blah, blah, blah,' Drum Corps International is proud to present," etc.
Now, because pre-shows seem to have different timing so that they can have maximum impact, a staff member usually prompts the announcer so that everything times to the corps' actual beginning, which opens up the problem of actual timed judging. I wish everything would be consistent...but, because the pre-show has now taken on a much more integrated part of the overall design, this concept has pretty much gone the way of the 2-valve bugle.
As for penalties assessed because a corps is late - shows are scheduled to the minute so that they can have ample time for the entire competition, but also not start so early that fans can't be there in-time for the start. In addition, noise ordinances are much more strict these days, with many cities having curfews that begin as early as 10pm. Because of this, if a corps is late, it really messes with the overall timing and puts the show sponsors in jeopardy of violating city law and receiving their own penalty/fine.
Yes, it sucks that a corps receives a penalty for being late, but it is a rule that was voted on by the Board of Directors. Regardless of the reason for being late, the penalty needs to be enforced across the board.