It’s sad. DCI has lost its soul for the better of a decade. This just is the final nail. They will still call it drum corps and the band kids will still show up, but drum corps is dead. Sadly, I knew this would happen eventually. This is just the first step. Now it’s one woodwind; in five years there will be an entire ensemble. Not sure who thinks DCI should be mimicking BOA.
@JakePresnallPercussion we'll see. It took over 30 years from the first time woodwinds were ever even mentioned at a DCI Rules Congress for us to get to just one solo instrument. And the next rules Congress isn't for another 4 years. So for now, this is it.
I disagree. Its not solely woodwinds every instrument having a chance to be featured which is hardly used. We’ve already had Keytar, Harmonica and E-Guitar solos, but these member are contracted with their main instrument (ex. Blue Coats 2022 Keytar was a Mello, however, they word it saying throughout the duration of the show so there is a chance for no dual-instrument, depending on how heavy the show is in the instrument. My counter her is the synth as it can already mimic the sound of any/every instrument throughout the duration of the show. So I don’t see the issue as the corp won’t obviously compromise their whole show to revolve around an instrument, that’s just silly as it is meant to enhance their sound & visual, i think the innovation is good as long as we keep is a 1 member per corp
@@SinsterStrange and all those things you list? They are part of how DCI doesn’t sound like classic drum corps anymore and hasn’t for a decade or more. This just cements the fall from drum corps to musical theater on a football field. Some will like and will continue to go. Those of us who love drum corps - fortunately we have ample recordings that we can still enjoy. I spend enough on football each fall - not having to spend for travel and tickets and streaming subscription for DCI is a silver lining.
@@FoCoBuzz fair point. It’s probably a generational gap, I am in my late teens and grew up with this new era of drum corp, but I can understand that frustration, especially given the contrasting differences between Old DCI & this new musical theater-isk DCI.. I think the leeway will encourage a broader audience to DCI, and also create new directions to travel from a composing stand point, meaning more innovative sounds People have mentioned it, but brass outcompetes most instruments sound wise and it’s what DCI is at its core, so I doubt we’ll ever see a whole section dedicated to an instrument.. I’m hoping they don’t expand that ruling any further as I do agree that it would be the solidify the death of DCI.
@@SinsterStrange I don't think you are wrong about the direction of composing and such. I just don't think that is a good thing. I am not sure, however, about expanding the audience. Setting aside my opposition to this rule, 40 years of watching and going to drum corps shows has done nothing to make me think that it is a niche activity. Yes, it draws big crowds to the regional shows and Indy, but I have never gotten a sense that there is a lot of broad-based interest. That's ok as those who like it are supportive. But shifting more toward marching band from drum corps of old won't register to the broader public - to them, it's all "marching band." A large portion of the shows I have gone to over the years are high school bands in blocks. Some of those kids will go on to be big fans for years, even participants, and draw in some of those close to them. But I know plenty of people I was in band with in high school that never cared and still don't about drum corps. A few care a little but none were as into it as I was over the decades. Even at college football games where the shows are geared toward pop culture and far less "artsy," halftime is when folks get up and head to the restroom and concession stands. Sure, I love halftime at college games for the bands - or band, given that I think we will see fewer teams bring a band on the road due to NIL...but that's an entirely different topic on which you don't want to get me started! :) - but, again, I am the exception. College bands are beloved and a big part of why I and many others think the college game is vastly superior to the NFL, but that is more about fight songs, in-game atmosphere, etc., not the halftime show.
@@SinsterStrange idk, I feel like the biggest thing that separates drum corps from marching band and makes dci unique is the lack of woodwinds. I’d just rather have the sound of a brand instrument during a solo than a woodwind, but I supposed that’s just my opinion. (Btw I have no problems with the other instrument sided like harmonica, keytar, synth, etc.)
I may be proven wrong, but I don’t foresee a day when any corps will every have a full woodwind section. The reason being, that any corps that did will be sacrificing volume to add instruments that won’t be heard, and won’t do as well as a result. And raising the member limit won’t help either, as corps will just fill the space with more brass players as a result.
@@Lkeaseindeed. Saxophones might handle the prolonged summer heat, but it would ruin/crack a decent clarinet. Pads would need replacement...who would do that on tour? The price of reeds...what would a summer tour cost?...how many would be enough?
@@DebbieWolgemuth reeds won’t be the problem since you’ll only have to buy one box for a season I’d imagine but the demand of DCI will be far too much for a woodwind. Really long drives, summer heat, some corps can’t afford to not practice on a rainy day, god forbid a key or part of the woodwind breaks cuz that’ll take a couple days to repair at least
One might say that, and there are hurdles, but you might underestimate that there is already electronics and microphones used, even for brass solos, microphones on a section of woodwinds could be seen as "innovative" and a way to "truly blend woodwinds with the louder impact of brass". It'd be sacrilegious, and I definitely come to dci for impressive fast geometric drill (crowns 3d shapes/cavvies diamond cutter, etc) drums and horns, but the makings are there for a woodwind line more than I think you might realize.
DCI, if you read your comments or CARE at all.. It seems the overwhelming majority of your percussion membership and viewership want to see the return of a percussion judge to the FIELD.. Place more power back in the hands of the performers, not the designers..
Y'all, stop freaking out over the soloist proposal. Yes is it saddening to see the DCI culture slowly deteriorate, but y'all gotta understand that this rule isn't just to please woodwinds. There's so many other instruments out there that don't fit normal catagories that could very well be used to create amazing sound. Also, it wouldn't be beneficial for Corps to contract woodwind soloists anyway considering the conditions they work in, especially Down South. The costs for repairs, reeds, instrument damage, not to mention how bad it would be if something on the woodwind broke before/mid performance (which happens much more than brass). If any of them do decide to have a woodwind soloist it would more than likely be someone who plays dual and is already a part of said Corp.
@AzarLani this is what I’m saying. There are so many things that make in impractical for any corps to add a full woodwind section, that I don’t see how or why any corps would. Along with what you said, they would be sacrificing volume if they did in order to stay within the members limit.
It’s sad that any possible discussion about how to tackle the rising costs was not brought up but we are now out here talking about adding woodwinds to drum corps. Wack.
You can't hear woodwinds during hits anyway, but the sonic profile will be interesting to hear when a woodwind soloist is playing with brass behind. I think the creative opportunities are gonna be good overall tho
I’m in my 20s and I’m not a fan of this new rule bc I know it’ll start as “opportunities for soloist” and slowly turn into dci becoming marching band. RIP to the amazing activity I once knew
@swordmaster32g 5 years ago they voted down a proposal that would have allowed woodwinds in general this seems like a good compromise where these solo opportunities can be used as a way to get woodwind instrumentalist to pick up brass instruments(spending half of the spring and the entire summer around brass players and percussionist will in all likelihood lead to curiosity)
I'm not bothered by the idea of a soloist being on any instrument....it's the same sentiment i have with electronics or voice overs, if used correctly it can enhance the show. but the same way electronics got waaaaaaay over used, i too feel like this is a slippery slope into it going from drum corp to BOA. Similar to a trombone feature....in the right show it's good, but just because you can doesn't mean you should. So I'm keeping an open mind for now, but reserve judgement for it going down that rabbit hole
Stop letting George Hopkins win. Woodwinds are legal in featured solo instrumentation....something that he wanted back before he was tried for his sexual misconduct. Next, you'll make the G7 proposal a thing.
The people freaking out because woodwinds can do solos now has me dying lol. It's a solo people- not the end of Drum Corps. A woodwind is a wonderful solo instrument- and so I get why its being allowed. I get that you want to keep tradition alive, but DCI is evolving and we have to evolve with it. I'm sure these corps can make great use of these new rules without sacrificing that "Corp" feel. This also allows for more arrangement opportunities and flavors and allows more inclusion. If it does morph into anything greater than this, for example, woodwinds marching, then yes I get the frustration. It's DCI, not BOA! But for now, it is still Drum & Bugle Corps, just with some new soloists.
my issue with woodwinds in drum corps is that if i wanted to hear a woodwind soloist, i would go listen to a high school band or an indoor winds program or a corps style college band like jax state or unt. i see people saying "im excited to hear how this will be implemented" or "i want to hear what it sounds like," but there's no seeing what it will sound like, it already exists. if you want to hear how it will be implemented, go listen to chromium or stryke. that's exactly how it will sound. there are places for woodwinds in the marching arts, but drum corps is not one of them. drum and bugle corps is defined as an all brass and percussion marching ensemble -- meaning the texture is supposed to be all brass and percussion. we all know how woodwinds sound in a marching ensemble, we all know what woodwind soloists sound like. but drum corps is and always has been an ensemble that specifically does not include woodwinds. it's one thing to have unorthodox instruments that are not traditionally used in any kind of marching ensemble like violin or accordion or harmonica or whatever because that's a neat, new, unusual effect, but woodwinds are not new or unusual. in fact, drum corps is the only kind of marching ensemble with wind instruments that do not feature woodwinds. there are ensembles for woodwinds. drum corps is not one of those ensembles. it has a specific sound and texture and in a way, including woodwinds gentrifies that unique texture. drum corps is not marching band or indoor winds, and there aren't woodwinds in drum corps because it is drum corps. i cant understand why so many people are obsessed with the idea of including woodwinds in drum corps specifically when they already exist in every other facet of the activity. can't there just be something unique??
@@echo2121 I understand where you're coming from. I also find it very probable that many corps will NOT use woodwinds (and other newly added instruments) to keep the tradition alive- but the ones that do will most likely use it very little, and uniquely. I think the reason DCI wants woodwinds is so more people have a chance to perform their instrument outside of school- and to really showcase all instruments in the world. Does it take a toll on the tradition? Yes. Is it the end of the tradition? Not at this point. Allowing woodwinds includes a wider range of audience as well for DCI- keeping it alive (IMO, DCI is still very alive but..wtv.)
Woodwinds in drum corps. That’s the death knell. With the costumes and “field theater” I barely cared last year; woodwinds make it even less appealing. I love drum corps, not marching band. It already hasn’t been drum corps for the better part of a decade; this just makes it worse. But, I still went to one show last year. This year? Not sure I will even bother. And I’ve been to at least one show every year going back to 1989; except for one year - 1996 - and the two COVID years. End of era? Becoming very likely for me. 😢
If you’re not gonna go see a group of multi-talented musicians perform just because you don’t like a certain instrument then that just means you need to grow up
@@chandlerpearce5609 it's a drum and bugle corps, they already started getting questionable with other soloist instruments, but adding an entire new family of instruments with an entire field of brass playing really goes against what the concept of drum and bugle corps is. now it's just turning into a marching bamd
@lasavageboi2465 it's a featured soloist, not an entire section. Think of it like this: Do you think that one soloist who is playing a featured instrument is going to spend half of the spring and the entire summer around brass and percussionist and not get the least bit curious about what it's like? This featured solo can act as gateway drug to getting more people into Drum Corps.
@@chandlerpearce5609 So by that logic I we should go to every musical performance, spending ever-increasing amounts of money, just because the performers are talented - no argument there - though the performance isn’t appealing? There are plenty types of musical and theater performances that feature talented performances that I have don’t care to sit through two hours for. Sadly, “drum corps” is if not there, it’s close. Their product isn’t what it was when it was appealing production. And that’s on DCI and the instructors who undermined its heritage to as drum and bugle corps to make it just another performance genre that will be harder to stand out without its uniqueness.
@lasavageboi2465 Exactly. And I stopped going to BOA events years ago because the performances on the field were uninteresting. A miced flute solo doesn’t excite, no matter how talented the performer is.
Some of my favorite hs marching band solos and moments are from woodwinds. Ofc who who can forget the legendary alto sax solo from penstriped? But thats marching band. Disappointing to see woodwinds added to drum corps.
Annnnnd it's over. Pretty sure Ole reliable Rondo doesn't like this. Good luck DCI. I'm not a "boomer" either. My first DCI show was at the age of 4 in 1988.
Have you ever seen a Wind Ensemble/Concert Band? Primary instrumentation is Brass, Woodwinds and Percussion. String sections are for orchestra's, right? Well, on occasions, you might see a single string bass or a harp in a Wind Ensemble. Or, a single violin soloist featured. It doesn't stop being a wind ensemble and became an "orchestra" with just the addition of that one soloist. This is no different. The primary instrumentation in DCI will still be brass and percussion. And that is not going to change anytime soon. One soloist in a show is not going to stop it from being a "drum corps".
@@sdssteward that's not a fair example. wind ensembles are purposely flexible with their instrumentation -- drum corps is not. would a brass quintet still be a brass quintet if you swapped the second trumpet with a clarinet?
It's crazy how bent out of shape y'all are that a singular non-brass or non-percussion instrument will be allowed on the field. It'll allow for a lot of cool arrangement opportunities
i dont think anybody's upset about the idea of a cellist or even accordion on the field. we've seen that before and soloists like that have resulted in some pretty kick ass shows. the problem is that woodwinds take up every other space in the marching arts -- is it that bad to want to keep drum corps unique?
Its here...right here...that the problems facing the future of DCI exist. None of the members of this group represents the fans...the public. It is well known that attendance at DCI concerts has been declining over the years. Let me point out to you that the high point of all the corps performances is that moment when the audience gives a standing ovation...and the smartest corps can achieve that several times in a performance. And what gets an audience to rise up is the massive sound of the Brass and Drums at full volume with a beautiful sounding chord. No soloist of any instrument has ever been able to achieve that. Attempts at innovation through the years have driven many of the corps to unpleasant extremes. And it is this group of people that need to control these efforts in order to maintain the integrity of the Bugle and Drum Corp. So here it my list of concerns.....Limit solo performances to just the Brass and Percussion instruments. I definitely do not want to hear guitars, woodwinds, pianos, stringed instruments, harps, etc. An effort needs to be made to eliminate the feminism we often see in the costumes and movements of the Corps and dancers. Hat, caps, helmets or some other head covering should be required of the Bugle and Drum corps members. Judges should not be permitted on the field during a performance...it is a un-neccessary distraction...they belong in the stands or in the in field where they can see all that they need to see. More later....
First they started mics on soloists, pit, now we have full on raves on the field. Next they start with woodwind soloists.....next theyll be piccolos jazzing 4 to 5 across the front sideline
All these people losing their minds. It's not the end of the world, I seriously doubt we're going to see a solo Clarinet out there, no one's going to be packing around a Bassoon all summer. lol If you didn't have a problem with the random individual instruments that have been used practically every year, why is it suddenly an issue just because it's extended to a Woodwind? Fact is, the activity has been dying (unfortunately), doesn't draw the crowds it used to and they have to change (or at least try new changes) if they want to improve that. Traditions change with time. Hop on board or get left behind. Personally, I LOVE a talented Oboe or Soprano Sax. I was a Trumpet player growing up and now I'd argue Oboe and Soprano Sax are probably my favorite instruments when you get someone that can truly play. Honestly, the cost is what really needs to be addressed more than anything. There are so many talented kids I witness every year who just can't come close to affording to join a Corps. So many smaller bands from Title I schools and smaller, rural areas have such talent and drive, and something like DCI would change their lives, traveling to cities they likely never would otherwise but they can't because of the cost.
It'll start of with just a solo instrument, but just wait after a season or two. Then they'll ask to have two or three instruments so they can have solo duets and trios. DCI has gradually been becoming a larger and more expensive version of WGI Winds since 2016-17. They might as well just go all in and become the Marching Band International or the summer edition of WGI. DCI won't make it to 2030 if it keeps going like this.
I don't care how long, how wide, how curved, or how short it is. I love snares, but I don't discriminate against the bells. I prefer Baritone 2 over lead 1st Trumpet. I only care how it all works together.
i can honestly not tell if i like the decision or not. im keeping an open mind as ill just have to see it live to determine anything. i will say this year we might see a nightmarish amount of abuse of this rule. every corps probably. gonna have a woodwind solo lol. i agree there should be some seperation between BOA and DCI beyond culture but im honestly just interested to see what takes place. ill come back and edit this upon further decision making and seeing what corps due with this.
Y’all are getting pressed by a flute. I think it’ll be neat. At the end of the day, I think we’re all just looking to see a good show, and this’ll give the designers more opportunities to be creative. Not to mention, it’ll give musicians a chance to be in a drum corps, who may have not otherwise had the opportunity.
that last bit is so inaccurate, there are so many woodwinds who learn brass instruments or percussion or guard just to be a part of drum corps. former woodwinds make up so many corps members every year. a woodwind player will have a MUCH higher chance of making a drum corps by learning brass than having the fringe shot of a corps deciding to have a woodwind solo, that solo being for their instrument, and finally that they would actually be good enough to win a spot as a soloist. assuming that the corps doesn't just pull from one of the many hornline members who also play a woodwind
People need to calm down. The point of the featured instrument rule is to give A(emphasis on A) woodwind player the ability to explore the activity and to possibly segue them into picking up a brass instrument. We're not even close to seeing it blow up into just marching bands. Keep in mind that there was a proposal 5 years ago to allow any instrumentation in general, and it failed after a considerable amount of discussion. This seems like a good compromise that gives other instrumentalists an opportunity while still maintaining the distinct identity of Drum Corps.
It’s about time with woodwinds. With cellos and violins legal as solo instruments, it only makes sense. I’m excited to see what corps will do with this!
People -- you have to face reality - Look at how BOA does it - A woodwind instrument will always sounds better mic'd - than a brass instrument. BOA is the state of the art - DCI needs to learn from these programs. Bluecoats lost 2019 b/c their trumpet soloists were burned out by finals night -- those solos are on an english horn or clarinet - Bluecoats win their 2nd championship that night instead of frittering away a clear championship to the always ready Blue Devils.
LMAO NO it’s a drum and BUGLE corp not a drum, bugle & fife corp DCI DCI is not boa there needs to be a separation that goes beyond just culture. It’s also sound, looks, feels the adding of woodwind instrumentation completely destroys any separation between a drum corp and a marching band
if you really think bluecoats lost in 2019 because their soloists were chopped out at the very end (they still sounded very good), then you need to get some perspective 😭
Man, I just want a damn field judge for the percussion again.
I second this
i third this
I fourth this
I fifth this we all want this
That spock roll was... CLEEEAN!!!!!
I never thought I would see the day that woodwinds would be added to drum corps.
It’s sad. DCI has lost its soul for the better of a decade. This just is the final nail. They will still call it drum corps and the band kids will still show up, but drum corps is dead. Sadly, I knew this would happen eventually. This is just the first step. Now it’s one woodwind; in five years there will be an entire ensemble. Not sure who thinks DCI should be mimicking BOA.
@ before you know it, DCI is gonna become Summer BOA
Soloists only. It's not full sections.
@ sure. It’s just soloists now but before you know it, full sections will be integrated into the mix and then drum corps will become summer band.
@JakePresnallPercussion we'll see. It took over 30 years from the first time woodwinds were ever even mentioned at a DCI Rules Congress for us to get to just one solo instrument. And the next rules Congress isn't for another 4 years. So for now, this is it.
i will start the biggest lot fight ever with tim snyder if i ever have to hear a clarinet solo in drum corps
I am hearing a Gershwin themed show, with a Rhapsody in Blue Clarinet solo....
@@echo2121 was this rule change proposed by Tim? I haven't followed very closely this year.
@@sdssteward yes. and gh
@@cerburus4215 GH is banned from the activity, you goon! 🤣 He had nothing at all to do with this proposal.
@@DebbieWolgemuthts the only exception
I am not a DCI boomer, but adding woodwinds (even if it’s just during solos) is too far :(
I disagree. Its not solely woodwinds every instrument having a chance to be featured which is hardly used. We’ve already had Keytar, Harmonica and E-Guitar solos, but these member are contracted with their main instrument (ex. Blue Coats 2022 Keytar was a Mello, however, they word it saying throughout the duration of the show so there is a chance for no dual-instrument, depending on how heavy the show is in the instrument.
My counter her is the synth as it can already mimic the sound of any/every instrument throughout the duration of the show. So I don’t see the issue as the corp won’t obviously compromise their whole show to revolve around an instrument, that’s just silly as it is meant to enhance their sound & visual, i think the innovation is good as long as we keep is a 1 member per corp
@@SinsterStrange and all those things you list? They are part of how DCI doesn’t sound like classic drum corps anymore and hasn’t for a decade or more. This just cements the fall from drum corps to musical theater on a football field. Some will like and will continue to go. Those of us who love drum corps - fortunately we have ample recordings that we can still enjoy. I spend enough on football each fall - not having to spend for travel and tickets and streaming subscription for DCI is a silver lining.
@@FoCoBuzz fair point. It’s probably a generational gap, I am in my late teens and grew up with this new era of drum corp, but I can understand that frustration, especially given the contrasting differences between Old DCI & this new musical theater-isk DCI..
I think the leeway will encourage a broader audience to DCI, and also create new directions to travel from a composing stand point, meaning more innovative sounds
People have mentioned it, but brass outcompetes most instruments sound wise and it’s what DCI is at its core, so I doubt we’ll ever see a whole section dedicated to an instrument.. I’m hoping they don’t expand that ruling any further as I do agree that it would be the solidify the death of DCI.
@@SinsterStrange I don't think you are wrong about the direction of composing and such. I just don't think that is a good thing. I am not sure, however, about expanding the audience. Setting aside my opposition to this rule, 40 years of watching and going to drum corps shows has done nothing to make me think that it is a niche activity. Yes, it draws big crowds to the regional shows and Indy, but I have never gotten a sense that there is a lot of broad-based interest. That's ok as those who like it are supportive. But shifting more toward marching band from drum corps of old won't register to the broader public - to them, it's all "marching band."
A large portion of the shows I have gone to over the years are high school bands in blocks. Some of those kids will go on to be big fans for years, even participants, and draw in some of those close to them. But I know plenty of people I was in band with in high school that never cared and still don't about drum corps. A few care a little but none were as into it as I was over the decades. Even at college football games where the shows are geared toward pop culture and far less "artsy," halftime is when folks get up and head to the restroom and concession stands. Sure, I love halftime at college games for the bands - or band, given that I think we will see fewer teams bring a band on the road due to NIL...but that's an entirely different topic on which you don't want to get me started! :) - but, again, I am the exception. College bands are beloved and a big part of why I and many others think the college game is vastly superior to the NFL, but that is more about fight songs, in-game atmosphere, etc., not the halftime show.
@@SinsterStrange idk, I feel like the biggest thing that separates drum corps from marching band and makes dci unique is the lack of woodwinds. I’d just rather have the sound of a brand instrument during a solo than a woodwind, but I supposed that’s just my opinion. (Btw I have no problems with the other instrument sided like harmonica, keytar, synth, etc.)
I may be proven wrong, but I don’t foresee a day when any corps will every have a full woodwind section. The reason being, that any corps that did will be sacrificing volume to add instruments that won’t be heard, and won’t do as well as a result. And raising the member limit won’t help either, as corps will just fill the space with more brass players as a result.
Not to mention that woodwinds cant handle the elements as well as brass can! The cost for repairs and for reeds would probably skyrocket.
@@Lkeaseindeed. Saxophones might handle the prolonged summer heat, but it would ruin/crack a decent clarinet. Pads would need replacement...who would do that on tour? The price of reeds...what would a summer tour cost?...how many would be enough?
@@DebbieWolgemuth reeds won’t be the problem since you’ll only have to buy one box for a season I’d imagine but the demand of DCI will be far too much for a woodwind. Really long drives, summer heat, some corps can’t afford to not practice on a rainy day, god forbid a key or part of the woodwind breaks cuz that’ll take a couple days to repair at least
One might say that, and there are hurdles, but you might underestimate that there is already electronics and microphones used, even for brass solos, microphones on a section of woodwinds could be seen as "innovative" and a way to "truly blend woodwinds with the louder impact of brass". It'd be sacrilegious, and I definitely come to dci for impressive fast geometric drill (crowns 3d shapes/cavvies diamond cutter, etc) drums and horns, but the makings are there for a woodwind line more than I think you might realize.
It's time to call it Marching Band International!
1 step further, Marching Band America
@@dukkcc2 I have a better one, Bands of America /s
DCI, if you read your comments or CARE at all.. It seems the overwhelming majority of your percussion membership and viewership want to see the return of a percussion judge to the FIELD.. Place more power back in the hands of the performers, not the designers..
Y'all, stop freaking out over the soloist proposal. Yes is it saddening to see the DCI culture slowly deteriorate, but y'all gotta understand that this rule isn't just to please woodwinds. There's so many other instruments out there that don't fit normal catagories that could very well be used to create amazing sound.
Also, it wouldn't be beneficial for Corps to contract woodwind soloists anyway considering the conditions they work in, especially Down South. The costs for repairs, reeds, instrument damage, not to mention how bad it would be if something on the woodwind broke before/mid performance (which happens much more than brass). If any of them do decide to have a woodwind soloist it would more than likely be someone who plays dual and is already a part of said Corp.
@AzarLani this is what I’m saying. There are so many things that make in impractical for any corps to add a full woodwind section, that I don’t see how or why any corps would. Along with what you said, they would be sacrificing volume if they did in order to stay within the members limit.
It’s sad that any possible discussion about how to tackle the rising costs was not brought up but we are now out here talking about adding woodwinds to drum corps. Wack.
Perhaps saxophone players have corp fees to pay? Money talks...
yeah, they might include woodwinds but ain't no drum corps gonna pull out a freaking flute mid-ballad lol
The boomers will not be pleased
I don't know if you're on the dci subreddit but the boomers are already going crazy over this
I’m not a boomer and I’m not pleased.
a lot more than the boomers
Also not a boomer, also not pleased
You can't hear woodwinds during hits anyway, but the sonic profile will be interesting to hear when a woodwind soloist is playing with brass behind. I think the creative opportunities are gonna be good overall tho
I’m in my 20s and I’m not a fan of this new rule bc I know it’ll start as “opportunities for soloist” and slowly turn into dci becoming marching band. RIP to the amazing activity I once knew
It truly is a slippery slope- I pray that woodwinds will be kept out of dci, I mean it’s “drum and bugle corps” after all not BOA
@@swordmaster32g"slippery slope" talking about this shit like it's foreign policy or drugs. It's MUSIC.
@@swordmaster32gfun fact: it started out as Drum Corps. The and bugle part was added later
I would easily see saxophones integrated. Blends with brass instruments. Would be ugly keeping good reeds through a summer of corp.
@swordmaster32g 5 years ago they voted down a proposal that would have allowed woodwinds in general this seems like a good compromise where these solo opportunities can be used as a way to get woodwind instrumentalist to pick up brass instruments(spending half of the spring and the entire summer around brass players and percussionist will in all likelihood lead to curiosity)
Not a boomer but yikes. I do not like the idea of woodwinds and strings in DCI.
Just merge with BOA already
It's not drum corps anymore
I'm not bothered by the idea of a soloist being on any instrument....it's the same sentiment i have with electronics or voice overs, if used correctly it can enhance the show. but the same way electronics got waaaaaaay over used, i too feel like this is a slippery slope into it going from drum corp to BOA. Similar to a trombone feature....in the right show it's good, but just because you can doesn't mean you should.
So I'm keeping an open mind for now, but reserve judgement for it going down that rabbit hole
Stop letting George Hopkins win. Woodwinds are legal in featured solo instrumentation....something that he wanted back before he was tried for his sexual misconduct.
Next, you'll make the G7 proposal a thing.
The people freaking out because woodwinds can do solos now has me dying lol. It's a solo people- not the end of Drum Corps. A woodwind is a wonderful solo instrument- and so I get why its being allowed.
I get that you want to keep tradition alive, but DCI is evolving and we have to evolve with it. I'm sure these corps can make great use of these new rules without sacrificing that "Corp" feel. This also allows for more arrangement opportunities and flavors and allows more inclusion.
If it does morph into anything greater than this, for example, woodwinds marching, then yes I get the frustration. It's DCI, not BOA! But for now, it is still Drum & Bugle Corps, just with some new soloists.
amen
my issue with woodwinds in drum corps is that if i wanted to hear a woodwind soloist, i would go listen to a high school band or an indoor winds program or a corps style college band like jax state or unt. i see people saying "im excited to hear how this will be implemented" or "i want to hear what it sounds like," but there's no seeing what it will sound like, it already exists. if you want to hear how it will be implemented, go listen to chromium or stryke. that's exactly how it will sound. there are places for woodwinds in the marching arts, but drum corps is not one of them. drum and bugle corps is defined as an all brass and percussion marching ensemble -- meaning the texture is supposed to be all brass and percussion. we all know how woodwinds sound in a marching ensemble, we all know what woodwind soloists sound like. but drum corps is and always has been an ensemble that specifically does not include woodwinds.
it's one thing to have unorthodox instruments that are not traditionally used in any kind of marching ensemble like violin or accordion or harmonica or whatever because that's a neat, new, unusual effect, but woodwinds are not new or unusual. in fact, drum corps is the only kind of marching ensemble with wind instruments that do not feature woodwinds. there are ensembles for woodwinds. drum corps is not one of those ensembles. it has a specific sound and texture and in a way, including woodwinds gentrifies that unique texture. drum corps is not marching band or indoor winds, and there aren't woodwinds in drum corps because it is drum corps. i cant understand why so many people are obsessed with the idea of including woodwinds in drum corps specifically when they already exist in every other facet of the activity. can't there just be something unique??
another thing is, is that its not just woodwinds that can be featured, its ANY kind of instrument that wants to be featured
@@echo2121 I understand where you're coming from.
I also find it very probable that many corps will NOT use woodwinds (and other newly added instruments) to keep the tradition alive- but the ones that do will most likely use it very little, and uniquely.
I think the reason DCI wants woodwinds is so more people have a chance to perform their instrument outside of school- and to really showcase all instruments in the world.
Does it take a toll on the tradition? Yes. Is it the end of the tradition? Not at this point.
Allowing woodwinds includes a wider range of audience as well for DCI- keeping it alive (IMO, DCI is still very alive but..wtv.)
@ateyagrandma i just pity the corps that ends up performing a woodwind solo in front of the allentown crowd.
I just can’t wait to hear that bagpipe feature!
Woodwinds in drum corps. That’s the death knell. With the costumes and “field theater” I barely cared last year; woodwinds make it even less appealing. I love drum corps, not marching band. It already hasn’t been drum corps for the better part of a decade; this just makes it worse.
But, I still went to one show last year. This year? Not sure I will even bother. And I’ve been to at least one show every year going back to 1989; except for one year - 1996 - and the two COVID years. End of era? Becoming very likely for me. 😢
If you’re not gonna go see a group of multi-talented musicians perform just because you don’t like a certain instrument then that just means you need to grow up
@@chandlerpearce5609 it's a drum and bugle corps, they already started getting questionable with other soloist instruments, but adding an entire new family of instruments with an entire field of brass playing really goes against what the concept of drum and bugle corps is. now it's just turning into a marching bamd
@lasavageboi2465 it's a featured soloist, not an entire section. Think of it like this: Do you think that one soloist who is playing a featured instrument is going to spend half of the spring and the entire summer around brass and percussionist and not get the least bit curious about what it's like? This featured solo can act as gateway drug to getting more people into Drum Corps.
@@chandlerpearce5609 So by that logic I we should go to every musical performance, spending ever-increasing amounts of money, just because the performers are talented - no argument there - though the performance isn’t appealing? There are plenty types of musical and theater performances that feature talented performances that I have don’t care to sit through two hours for. Sadly, “drum corps” is if not there, it’s close. Their product isn’t what it was when it was appealing production. And that’s on DCI and the instructors who undermined its heritage to as drum and bugle corps to make it just another performance genre that will be harder to stand out without its uniqueness.
@lasavageboi2465 Exactly. And I stopped going to BOA events years ago because the performances on the field were uninteresting. A miced flute solo doesn’t excite, no matter how talented the performer is.
They should have a drum corps show with a bagpipe full brass duet lol
Some of my favorite hs marching band solos and moments are from woodwinds. Ofc who who can forget the legendary alto sax solo from penstriped? But thats marching band. Disappointing to see woodwinds added to drum corps.
exactly. woodwinds already have a place in the marching arts
Nobody knows this sax solo you are referring to.
Annnnnd it's over. Pretty sure Ole reliable Rondo doesn't like this. Good luck DCI. I'm not a "boomer" either. My first DCI show was at the age of 4 in 1988.
Here before the comments
Woodwinds??? You're kidding, I thought this was drum and bugle corps, not marching band.
Have you ever seen a Wind Ensemble/Concert Band? Primary instrumentation is Brass, Woodwinds and Percussion. String sections are for orchestra's, right?
Well, on occasions, you might see a single string bass or a harp in a Wind Ensemble. Or, a single violin soloist featured. It doesn't stop being a wind ensemble and became an "orchestra" with just the addition of that one soloist.
This is no different. The primary instrumentation in DCI will still be brass and percussion. And that is not going to change anytime soon. One soloist in a show is not going to stop it from being a "drum corps".
@@sdssteward that's not a fair example. wind ensembles are purposely flexible with their instrumentation -- drum corps is not. would a brass quintet still be a brass quintet if you swapped the second trumpet with a clarinet?
@@sdssteward moreover, just use synth patches if you want a woodwind texture that bad
Not anymore
@@echo2121 it absolutely IS a fair example! It's a perfect parallel!
not a dci boomer, only discovered dci in 2023, and i hate this. woodwinds in drum corp? heck no
It's crazy how bent out of shape y'all are that a singular non-brass or non-percussion instrument will be allowed on the field. It'll allow for a lot of cool arrangement opportunities
i dont think anybody's upset about the idea of a cellist or even accordion on the field. we've seen that before and soloists like that have resulted in some pretty kick ass shows. the problem is that woodwinds take up every other space in the marching arts -- is it that bad to want to keep drum corps unique?
literally like it doesnt even matter 😭😭
Hard prediction: Saxophone solo in Troop '25
woodwind soloists in DCI were NOT on my 2025 bingo
Man y’all had me scared that drum corps were going to be implementing entire woodwind sections
Its here...right here...that the problems facing the future of DCI exist. None of the members of this group represents the fans...the public. It is well known that attendance at DCI concerts has been declining over the years. Let me point out to you that the high point of all the corps performances is that moment when the audience gives a standing ovation...and the smartest corps can achieve that several times in a performance. And what gets an audience to rise up is the massive sound of the Brass and Drums at full volume with a beautiful sounding chord. No soloist of any instrument has ever been able to achieve that. Attempts at innovation through the years have driven many of the corps to unpleasant extremes. And it is this group of people that need to control these efforts in order to maintain the integrity of the Bugle and Drum Corp.
So here it my list of concerns.....Limit solo performances to just the Brass and Percussion instruments. I definitely do not want to hear guitars, woodwinds, pianos, stringed instruments, harps, etc. An effort needs to be made to eliminate the feminism we often see in the costumes and movements of the Corps and dancers. Hat, caps, helmets or some other head covering should be required of the Bugle and Drum corps members. Judges should not be permitted on the field during a performance...it is a un-neccessary distraction...they belong in the stands or in the in field where they can see all that they need to see. More later....
So the battery judge can’t go on the field but we got woodwinds now. Wtf
As a fan . I couldn't afford to join. It's going away from Drum and Bugle . They need to bring back the basics go back to the 80s and 90s
That's the start of a full woodwinds section in the future.
Can't wait to be in the Crown Bassoon section next year
I'm not a "boomer," but I'm still disappointed. Do better.
First they started mics on soloists, pit, now we have full on raves on the field.
Next they start with woodwind soloists.....next theyll be piccolos jazzing 4 to 5 across the front sideline
It's not drum and bugle corps anymore.. I wonder if I'll regret the contact I just signed with Genesis..
All these people losing their minds. It's not the end of the world, I seriously doubt we're going to see a solo Clarinet out there, no one's going to be packing around a Bassoon all summer. lol
If you didn't have a problem with the random individual instruments that have been used practically every year, why is it suddenly an issue just because it's extended to a Woodwind?
Fact is, the activity has been dying (unfortunately), doesn't draw the crowds it used to and they have to change (or at least try new changes) if they want to improve that. Traditions change with time. Hop on board or get left behind. Personally, I LOVE a talented Oboe or Soprano Sax. I was a Trumpet player growing up and now I'd argue Oboe and Soprano Sax are probably my favorite instruments when you get someone that can truly play.
Honestly, the cost is what really needs to be addressed more than anything. There are so many talented kids I witness every year who just can't come close to affording to join a Corps. So many smaller bands from Title I schools and smaller, rural areas have such talent and drive, and something like DCI would change their lives, traveling to cities they likely never would otherwise but they can't because of the cost.
Time for double-Reed, harmonica, and ukulele features.
One woodwind is one too many.
Slowlly I turn. Inch by inch! ...(closer and closer to becoming cirque du soleil)
It'll start of with just a solo instrument, but just wait after a season or two. Then they'll ask to have two or three instruments so they can have solo duets and trios. DCI has gradually been becoming a larger and more expensive version of WGI Winds since 2016-17. They might as well just go all in and become the Marching Band International or the summer edition of WGI. DCI won't make it to 2030 if it keeps going like this.
Drum and Bugle and Woodwind corps????
I don't care how long, how wide, how curved, or how short it is. I love snares, but I don't discriminate against the bells. I prefer Baritone 2 over lead 1st Trumpet. I only care how it all works together.
Drum Corps: yoko ono; AHHhhhheuuuehhhhhhahhhhhhh
Really what do you expect from an organization which was started in the men's room of a truck stop.
I am an alumni drummer drum and bugle corp no wood winds were around during my time 😮😮😮😠🙃
It's tragic what has happened to drum corps.
I’m done with dci I can’t no more this just killed it it’s done
Prop 1 should’ve been cut.
i can honestly not tell if i like the decision or not. im keeping an open mind as ill just have to see it live to determine anything. i will say this year we might see a nightmarish amount of abuse of this rule. every corps probably. gonna have a woodwind solo lol. i agree there should be some seperation between BOA and DCI beyond culture but im honestly just interested to see what takes place. ill come back and edit this upon further decision making and seeing what corps due with this.
not big on woodwinds interesting change
BOA 2 - Electric Boogaloo
Bring back the 80s, 90s, and early 2000s….allow the guard to do the dancing…and bring back the real uniforms please.
Can you see how many people do not like this?
Shame.
Think about it in the real world guys. It could help us.
You reap what you sew. No surprise, just sadness.
Y’all are getting pressed by a flute. I think it’ll be neat. At the end of the day, I think we’re all just looking to see a good show, and this’ll give the designers more opportunities to be creative. Not to mention, it’ll give musicians a chance to be in a drum corps, who may have not otherwise had the opportunity.
that last bit is so inaccurate, there are so many woodwinds who learn brass instruments or percussion or guard just to be a part of drum corps. former woodwinds make up so many corps members every year. a woodwind player will have a MUCH higher chance of making a drum corps by learning brass than having the fringe shot of a corps deciding to have a woodwind solo, that solo being for their instrument, and finally that they would actually be good enough to win a spot as a soloist. assuming that the corps doesn't just pull from one of the many hornline members who also play a woodwind
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lol at the comments
Nic the goat stay uploadin bro love what ur doin🐐
Orchestral and wind ensemble music has woodwinds. No need for it in drum corps, even in the form of a soloist… not a fan.
No good, bad
Epic Sax battles on the field
I'd be down, Imagine BD just ripping quad splits as the soloists slam Jazz keys.
Please revert
This is not good.
Dci will die without innocation/woodwinds sorry guys lets be realistic
No bueno señores y señoritas
People need to calm down. The point of the featured instrument rule is to give A(emphasis on A) woodwind player the ability to explore the activity and to possibly segue them into picking up a brass instrument. We're not even close to seeing it blow up into just marching bands. Keep in mind that there was a proposal 5 years ago to allow any instrumentation in general, and it failed after a considerable amount of discussion. This seems like a good compromise that gives other instrumentalists an opportunity while still maintaining the distinct identity of Drum Corps.
For the love of god please stop this
DCI sucks dude
what a joke of organization
It’s about time with woodwinds. With cellos and violins legal as solo instruments, it only makes sense. I’m excited to see what corps will do with this!
:/
BULLSHIT.
DCI saxophone quartets 😮
People -- you have to face reality - Look at how BOA does it - A woodwind instrument will always sounds better mic'd - than a brass instrument. BOA is the state of the art - DCI needs to learn from these programs.
Bluecoats lost 2019 b/c their trumpet soloists were burned out by finals night -- those solos are on an english horn or clarinet - Bluecoats win their 2nd championship that night instead of frittering away a clear championship to the always ready Blue Devils.
LMAO NO it’s a drum and BUGLE corp not a drum, bugle & fife corp
DCI
DCI is not boa there needs to be a separation that goes beyond just culture. It’s also sound, looks, feels the adding of woodwind instrumentation completely destroys any separation between a drum corp and a marching band
if you really think bluecoats lost in 2019 because their soloists were chopped out at the very end (they still sounded very good), then you need to get some perspective 😭
First