Drum corps is essentially professional band minus the pay. You audition, attend rehearsal, then perform during the summer. The bands/corps have competitions/shows in which they compete, and when it’s all said and done, the Blue Devils win.
I'm a professional brass player, but never marched DCI. I'm losing interest in mainstream sports, and DCI does a lot more for me than watching sports does. It's sports + music. That's why I'll probably be a fan for life :) Wish I would've had the opportunity to march....must be an amazing experience.
Harrison Dixon you’re good, but they were invited by DCI to perform Here’s a link to a video with DCI and Calgary: ua-cam.com/video/z9NWF-UyYfM/v-deo.html
Probably a bit more of a cynical explanation on DCI, but for me what kept me coming back was how much it absolutely sucked. It is the hardest I and my friends ever had to work, and we loved every second of it. Being pushed to these levels we never thought possible was thrilling. And seeing it all pay off in a show that people loved was great. Honestly, the hardest part is coming back. You're in this word of your own with the same 150 kids for 85 days, and then suddenly you're back home doing normal life things. That's just my hot take, though.
There's also a ton of mental, physical, and sexual abuse, and medical neglect that goes into that. And a lot of these corps go out of their way to cover it up instead of radically addressing the problem.
Simply attending TRYOUTS for anything (DCI, your school jazz band, even periodically interviewing for a job even when you aren't looking to move) teaches you valuable personal improvement and life skills. Getting outside of your box is key to be coming a better person and feeling great about yourself and your potential! Thank you for this video! I feel it fills a gap in knowledge for many people
Im in regular marching band and honestly, if you want a good extracurricular to be in, marching band is your best bet if youre already in symphonic band. Marching band is basically watered down drum corp. marching band mainly consists of teens in high school where we do a week or two of seven or twelve hour practices called “band camp.” Its definitely a good start before getting into drum corp because if you do marching band first, youll already be used to the extreme heat and extreme workout. The best part of marching band however is the fact that you basically join a family consisting of your section. Im a trumpet and the trumpet section in my band is a super tight-knit community. We always go out to eat together before games, we have multiple group chats connecting us when we arent in band together, we have a chant we say at the end of rehearsal (one guy yells “trumpets, shark bait” and everyone else yells “broo-haa-haa” in response), and we even have a minecraft server we play on from time to time. Its such a great feeling to find people who accept you and wanna be friends with you. Thats how it was for me, i joined the marching band with very few friends, but i ended up becoming one of the most well known people in the band, making multiple friends within and without my section. Marching band is a super invigorating experience and i highly suggest joining it if drum corp is too much for you.
I'm considering trying out for Crown pit 2021. (Might not make it since I would only be 16-17 at that point and I literally started percussion in high school. 😭 Two of the Crown instructors that I know said I'll probably make 2022 tho.) Thank you so much for your inspiration and encouragement!! I certainly agree that I fell in love with DCI the moment I discovered it. Also it's a relief that you made this video so that I don't have to explain it to my parents. 💖💖 Definitely got a sub from me :)
I have to tell you that as a fan who has never participated in DCI that I have the utmost respect for all of you performers. I’m old now. 51! I used to march in high school and completely understand why you want to do this activity. I so enjoy going to see the competition in Tennessee when they come around. I’m always amazed at the perfection of the shows. Many times it has brought me to tears of joy because there was something quite spectacular about the performance that touched me. Keep on doing what you do because there are lots of fans out there like me who simply love what you do.
Very well done. I’ve been involved with drum corps since the 70s marched in 6 Finals. Taught, judged and my daughter marched as well. I really appreciate you making this heartfelt video. Drum Corps brought lifelong friends for me I still connect with people I met and marched with over 40 years ago. I can only hope it continues to bring joy to future generations. Hopeful for s 2021 season.
I marched 75 and 76 with Guardsmen from Illinois. In all eras drum corps is really hard work. A great memory for me is 1976 dci. After prelims we knew we did our best show ever, and the crowd enjoyed it. We needed a score over 82 to make finals for the first time. When the PA announcer said "83..." we just erupted in pure joy!! All the grueling hard work (like the video mentioned) paid off! It was a different era with more strict field judging, but the rush still the same.
I know the guy at 7:04! He’s the low brass tech for my high schools marching band and gives me private tuba lessons! He got me into DCI and is encouraging me to hopefully one day do it. This is probably gonna get buried but I thought I’d share!
As a current freshman in high school and a kid who has admired the DCI/ marching band world since I was extreamly young I was able to do my first year of marching and it was the best experiance of my life. We won 2nd place at nationals and It felt increadible. I got so many new friends, more fit, and most importantly more self confidance. I was able to put myself out there and work hard on something I never would have unless it was marching. Now unfortunatly im going through some very sivere health problems so I might not be able to march for a while but when I do become healthy again Im going to march my heart out again. When I become older I know I want to join DCI and this just made me want to even more. So thank you for posting this.
I made BD in 1984 as a rookout to the entire activity -- had never even marched a slide before, because back then, most HS bands were squads of 4, face direction of march, mirror drill, etc. Drum corps alums becoming band directors and bringing their corps sensibilities to their programs hadn't started yet. My mother didn't really understand the appeal, but made my flight to Concord to audition my Xmas present, and my full tour fee (only %450 back then) my birthday present. She supported me the whole way. Dad? Hadn't a clue...could not comprehend why I'd want to do such a thing....was actually kinda against the idea. Fast forward 12 years...I'm co-founder/director of a small corps out of L.A. called Nightfire. We had a show in San Diego -- where "s from -- and both parents came to watch the show...tough because Mom was fighting mesothelioma at the time and would pass a year later. I sat with them when Nightfire was on, and they sat for the entire competition....which included BD with the "Club Blue: A Gangster Chronicle" show that would win DCI that year. Santa Clara was also there with "La Mer." After the show, Dad said he finally got it
I marched with the Battalion last summer, a new open class corps from Utah. I don't know where I would be without that program, I'm honored to be a part of it.
I lucked out. My marching years came when both PBS and ESPN would actually air DCI Finals every year, if not a few regional contests before! My high school also served as a practice space and resting spot for Star of Indiana, Spirit of Atlanta, Velvet Knights, and Blue Devils when they competed in the local DCI event near where I lived. The cool thing about that was that our local show (Drums Across the Tri-State in Huntington, WV) was usually the weekend right before championship week, so the visiting corps would be both pumped AND at the top of their game for the season. While it was cool to host Star and Blue Devils as top corps at the time, my favorites were Spirit and the VK. Such cool kids AND staff! When VK stayed, I went with friends to hang out with the corps members sleeping over at our school. We helped some VK members break into our school's library to use the computers that were hooked up to the Internet, which at that time was still extremely rare. After that, we broke into our science lab, but only to hang out. I remember the discussion being about D&D and other RPGs. Yeah, no doubt DCI's a world-class athletic activity, but make no mistake: it's also rather quite nerdy!
For what it's worth, the visiting corps always slept on the gym floor at our school. Well, they all did except for the Blue Devils, who took a look at our Appalachian public school and decided to go seek out the nearest university dorms. Can't say I blame them, but it still felt a slight when their staff came up to our band director and literally told him, "Nuh-uh! We're outta here after practice!"
I'm in the woodwind section, I was wondering if it's too late to learn snares because I low-key feel like it's too late because I'm in 11th grade but I also low-key wanna be in DCI lol so...
So I wouldn't learn a percussion instrument because that always seems to be way more competitive (especially snare), you basically have to drum non stop for a few years before you are good enough to make a world class drumline. If you are serious about doing drum corps though I would recommend a brass instrument because it's less competitive and it's easier to make the transition from woodwinds. Hope this helps, good luck
Hey man. This video has made me feel really confident in everything that I'm gonna be doing this summer. I'm 17 and I'm going to be marching with a new open class drum corp that was started up in West Virginia last year called Appalachian Gold. I wish more and more people could feel this way about the marching arts instead of seeing it as a band that walks around on the field. I live for this activity and I look forward to everything that will come for the 2019 season.
Don't know how I didn't see this until now, but it was a fantastic video! DCI was definitely one of the best things I've ever done. And although I couldn't mentally get myself to march more than one season, it still had a large impact on me. Countless memories and friendships. It truly is something special.
Simply put, Drum Corps is "Marching Music's Major League". I'm an alumnus of the Cavaliers Drum and Bugle Corps from 1977--1987 (Baritone/Contrabass player). As performers, most of us are so focused that we try to block the crowd's reaction, but when it hits, it's a feeling that's very hard to explain. Sometimes the crowd can be so loud that it overpowers our playing, and that's when it becomes difficult. When your group hits on all cylinders as Santa Clara Vanguard did in the closer (1988 DCI Finals) with all their emotion and power, it's a pretty awesome feeling! That's a hard feeling to beat, knowing that you left absolutely everything on the field, with no regrets. That's what makes it all worth it (win or lose). As for the Cavaliers and myself, it's the Brotherhood that lasts a lifetime that keeps us coming back. This video pretty much sums it all up... well done, Grant. SPLOOIE-4-Life (and beyond)😎💚🤍🖤🏳🌈 ua-cam.com/video/RV6AaSqUXiQ/v-deo.html
Honestly I'm a senior in high school and this is my first time doing color guard but I absolutely love it. I've been thinking about doing dci and now I'm definitely going to save up for it.
Phantom Regiment 2016 was the show that I saw first live, and I was captivated. No, it wasn’t the best show Regiment had ever performed, but man, it was stupid cool to a 14 year old me. I eventually got in at Regiment, and the thing that has stuck with me is the experiences, the good, the bad, the funny, the sad. My advice for anyone marching is to absorb it all, it will stick with you forever. I’ve marched 4 years now, and this 5th upcoming season will be my age out. Don’t forget your roots, and don’t forget the journey you took to bloom into who you became.
@@Mady3en prepare everything, come in like a sponge and be ready to soak in all the knowledge you can and be ready to apply it on the fly, and CHOOSE to be confident!
In 1987 I meet My Now Husband James, We both Marched with Cavaliers, James Played Tuba, I being the Small Flame was in the Guard. In 1988 James didn't come back; i was devastated. In 1989, James walked threw the door at one weekend tryouts, I've never let him out of my site again.... Still to this day we make it to World Finals weekend.
Absolutely amazing summary of DCI. Being just a freshman who recently got through my fist competition show and spending my first 12+ straight hours with the band mates I could definitively see how great marching really is and I’m sure DCI or even DCA is ample that especially with the way you described it. I can’t wait!
I'm barely starting out as a freshman snare in highschool and i really want to be in dci..thank you for helping me figure out if i want to do it or not :)👍
I wish fees stayed there, when I first looked into it it seemed like the average fees were 3,800 for World Class. Fees now seem to be closer to 4,000. Personally my 2020 age-out contract is 4,500.
I’m sad I aged out already and never joined. But honestly, the thought of wanting to quit scared me ngl. I’m sincerely impressed how everyone does it no matter what placement they get at the end of every season. Actually making it through the whole season is a victory within itself.
I miss being in a marching band in my country the unitedkingdom but we don't do it anymore I really like it to come back some of your shows are out of this world
I’m currently a freshman, I’m really hoping that 3-4 years from now I can be a part of this wonderful sport. I’ve truly fallen In love with marching band over this past year and I’m really hoping that I’m able to do this after senior year
If you were actually there for Spartacus I just want you to know how jealous I am of you. If you got more years I hope your able to march them all, especially your age out.
At this point in the evolution of drum corps, I would recommend that someone who has never done it before consider trying out for a non-world class corps, or at least one not in the top echelons. Couple of reasons. 1. Cost/Committment. Generally these are the more expensive corps to join and require intense commitment to the rehearsal and touring schedules. 2. Experience. Also generally, the people who audition for the top corps have lots of experience in their performance area. This isn't to say you can't try out, but understand that these corps are looking for the absolute best possible candidates to join up in order to win the Championship. Regardless of which corps you get into, I can guarantee you've just joined the best non-blood-related family outside of the military.
soo I was under the assumption that DCI was a college band competition only, it doesn't appear that's the case. anyone can audition for any corps assuming they have what it takes? that's a lot better than just college, really cool
@@SWilla00946 so dci is rich kids only basically. nobody else can afford to not work all summer and pay for the work they put in, pretty messed up really. the shame is all the talent the world misses in this largely excluded group, someone should get paid at least basic expenses for something of this magnitude
All though marching band can be draining for your mental self and your emotional self its also the best thing thatd ever happened to me. I have met awesome people. Im a sophomore and this year is my 2nd year marching and im in percussion, and a few years from now ill come back to this comment and ill tell yall whether i have done drum corps or not! Wish me luck!
There has to be a way to monetize this so it at least is free for participants but to be honest I think what makes it so good is because you really have to live it to do it and it shows on the field
Drum corps 2019 is VERY different from Drum Corps 1975, 1985, and 1995. It was an activity that was affiliated with Post WW2 alumni military service organizations. It also was originally known as DRUM and BUGLE corps. The pit instruments were not set at the front line back in the day. And there was no such thing as AMPLIFICATION ... it was all lung power for the brass players! NO mixing boards either. When the DCI organization came into being, it turned the activity into an organized business. Many of the original show and competition requirements either morphed into something completely different or were totally eliminated. While the underlying spirit is still there, I don't completely agree with all of what the activity has become. Basically, it's a contest of who can outdo who using the biggest and best props and backdrops. Despite this, I have and I will still support the kids who participate. I think there's so much more DCI could do to promote the activity to alleviate the financial burden on the kids and level the field a bit more, but that is a different discussion for another day. PS - I am available for consultation upon request and by fee only.
In the last 10-15 years, it seems like things have moved farther away from the roots of D&BC than in the previous 25-30 years combined since the inception of DCI
I’m a 17 year old boutta audition later this year for BD in December for tenor drum and I know it’s gonna take a hell a lot of work and then some but this made me even more confident in my audition, thanks Grant hopefully I can look back on this in my early 20’s and be happy on my decision
Madison Whyte Yup. It’s by the Phantom Regiment (2008) “SPARTACUS” opener and show. It’s also easier to just type “Spartacus Marching Band” into UA-cam. It’ll be the second or first option. Definitely a performance that’s worth watching. Enjoy! ;)
absolutely amazing video, couldnt have explained it better if i tried, almost made me cry. such a weird thing to explain, and that personal story was a real gut wrencher
When I was in DC in Europe (in the 80s 🙄) We didn't have Trombones, just sop, mel, bar &Cbass) The US is so different! We didn't have to leave in our early 20s, we had 40+ yr olds marching etc. We didn't have to pay that much! Or buy our own instruments. We just had a monthly fee. Either 2 Corps always won. And a few of their members went to the Devils for a season too. Oh they were the days. I played Soprano, then Snare (crash course, shit at it 🤣) but the fun we had, and got to travel all around Europe! Good days 😊💖
Old and fat now, I was in the newly reformed Southwind Drum and Bugle Corps WAAAAAY back in 1991 and '92 out of Montgomery Alabama on the snare. They've had their troubles staying in the game over the years, and the issue was always money. Even with the money we paid upfront, there was never enough for transportation, food, etc., and I remember the cost was almost always the issue with staying solvent. Luckily, we had good management we the corp restarted. We played in DCI's Class A/Division II {think Junior Drum and Bugle Corps} "back in the day" and it was an absolute grind, almost a love-hate relationship. The love came from actually winning! We took the World Champions in Dallas both years. Pretty exciting! The hate came from our show's theme...OMG, it was The Little Mermaid in '91 and Robin Hood in '92. It was TERRIBLE, and the music arrangement, especially for the drumline, was super-easy to play, allowing the formations to be complex, thus, the show looked and sounded great. Almost 30 years later, would I recommend it?? HELL YES! After the limelight was over, it DID make for better individuals (although I didn't keep up with anyone in the Corp!), and personally, the fun came in later years being proficient in switching over to drumset, thus have been in a multitude of bands playing cover tunes on drumset over the past 30 years. I have a lil gig this Fri/Sat. Sweet!
A lot of what you said is true, but it mostly fits for drum corps after the ‘80’s -ish. Take a look at drum corps between the late ‘60’ and mid ‘70’s. BIG difference in shows and music. But as far as life long friends becoming family, that IS true.
I’m a sophomore trumpet in Oklahoma and I don’t have much money. I’m trying to gather some money to audition for genesis down in Texas. I’ve always wanted to do dci and I’ve been really driven by my schools marching band and watching 80s/90s bugle corps. I plan on auditioning next year. But I already have a lot on my plate this year and I lack the money to audition. i just have to sit there and practice while I wait. How I’m different from everyone else in my band is that I’m in love with the process as well as the result.
However... you didn't answer the fundamental question of why it's called a Drum and BUGLE Corps if it's just like a marching band that practices a lot. For a lot of us that marched "back then" when you ask about the question of "why", it's not only about being a part of something larger but the brotherhood (kinship) and traditions of member's past, present and future; the heritage. IMHO, it's what separates the corps of today vs yester-year. I believe DCI is losing it's identity to BOA which comes back to your first point; "...it's a more rehearsed marching band". When a corps used to approach and enter the field for competition, you didn't need an announcement. You KNEW their identity from their uniforms. Sure there were uniform modifications over the years but not throw away each year. Then there's the complexities of the shows. Let me give props to the members who march today! They'd march circles around what we did... however, we didn't need to have a PhD in music to understand the show, read the background story of the hows and whys. It was music in motion...not about conveying a story which took all tour for an audience to understand. I think, fundamentally, there will be some type of convergence of DCI and BOA. Just like back when there was VFW, DCA and newly DCI. Just some random thoughts for an old dude marching member when ticks and bugles were a thing.
One of the great things about "old" drum and bugle corps was that the G bugles gave the activity its own, unique sound, (as did the style of music that was played) and the marching style was quite different from marching bands...the activity has completely lost what made it unique
auditioning for BK this year!! it's been my motivation all through high school. so so nervous, i know if i make it in though it will be the time of my life
@@madisonwhyte976 That was our 2018 Soundsport show (ua-cam.com/video/S6hyVgV28bI/v-deo.html). It's quite watered down from what we normally do becuase it's hard to do a lot on a Soundsport field with 150 members. You should check out some of our full shows, they are at a much higher caliber than this was at, since we had a full field and 11 minutes to develop it on.
I just might be a stupid High Schooler, but I'm I'm a small marching band, the band is family, the travels, grueling practice, no matter what really happens, the director is right, band is family and it's fun.
I was first exposed to Drum Corps in the early seventies. I loved the military-like marching and maneuvering and the familiar music that was played ergo "West Side Story" and "Danny Boy". I have the greatest respect for the tremendous efforts put in by the corps members and volunteers but the product produced now is painful for me to hear and I don't like trying to comprehend the story being acted out on the field. Smart uniforms and non-amplified music have disappeared and given way to mostly obscure and unidentifiable sounds. The days of if you play it, you carry it are gone and members in costume dance instead of march. Obviously I am old, and have not kept up with the "progress". I can't relive the past, but I don't have to participate in the present or future. I went to Indianapolis this year and after two days I couldn't face a third. My ticket went to waste but I felt relieved for not having to sit through another session. Sadly, I have attended my last competition but, at least, I have some great memories of the CYO Nationals I attended at Boston College.
Greetings from Malaysia! It's very inspiring videothat I wanted to do the drum corps in my short teenage life. But I come from a marching band with some finanncial problems, so I had done the marching show for once. Is it possible that I could make it for Open Class Drum Corps and then World Class?
Drum corps is essentially professional band minus the pay. You audition, attend rehearsal, then perform during the summer. The bands/corps have competitions/shows in which they compete, and when it’s all said and done, the Blue Devils win.
Then another corps, then BD, then another corps, then BD, then another corps.
Prob scvg
@@purpleknight1396 You can't be more right
I’m kind of obligated to like the blue Devils because my band director marched with the blue Devils for 12 years but that’s pretty accurate
Walt Wilson don’t forget the win SCV gets every decade
"After all, everyone is valued when you're marching. You need everyone in order to make a perfect star."
I don't know why this hit so hard but damn
Maybe because the corp that was shown made a star?
Ima be a high school senior next year and I’m absolutely quoting that
I've had some teammates at work who need some real encouragement too meet their potential. This is a fantastic analogy I can use with them.
“Why is drum corps awesome” *first clip is of phantom 2008* YUP ITS A GOOD VIDEO
Yes
I'm a professional brass player, but never marched DCI. I'm losing interest in mainstream sports, and DCI does a lot more for me than watching sports does. It's sports + music. That's why I'll probably be a fan for life :) Wish I would've had the opportunity to march....must be an amazing experience.
DCA is always an option!
college bands are also an option or maybe a wgi winds group in your area!
dctrtuba brass one option is dca which is basically dci but instead there’s no age limit so the members range from 14 to 40 something years old
DCA is awesome!
You thought you were sneaky putting in that boa clip
Where
That's not BOA, it's the Calgary Stampede Showband
Mr. Mccouscous Oh, my bad. Still not DCI though
Harrison Dixon you’re good, but they were invited by DCI to perform
Here’s a link to a video with DCI and Calgary: ua-cam.com/video/z9NWF-UyYfM/v-deo.html
Sebastian Rasor true, but it’s not the first thing I think of when I hear DCI
Probably a bit more of a cynical explanation on DCI, but for me what kept me coming back was how much it absolutely sucked. It is the hardest I and my friends ever had to work, and we loved every second of it. Being pushed to these levels we never thought possible was thrilling. And seeing it all pay off in a show that people loved was great.
Honestly, the hardest part is coming back. You're in this word of your own with the same 150 kids for 85 days, and then suddenly you're back home doing normal life things. That's just my hot take, though.
There's also a ton of mental, physical, and sexual abuse, and medical neglect that goes into that.
And a lot of these corps go out of their way to cover it up instead of radically addressing the problem.
@@SeanLaMontagne Nobody fucking asked, fucktard.
@@juneyellowsnek
Thats the problem
Nobody talks about it. Its all hush-hush. That's how abuse is perpetuated.
The satisfaction of sending this to everyone I know that doesn't know what drumcorps is, is REAL
That's what's up.
Now I don’t have to explain it to my family
Thank you for explaining this so I don't have to stumble my way through an explanation all the time.
I'd give my left foot to march again
If you give your left foot to march, you cant march, because you need a left foot
GamingWithFun15 / GamingWithFunOffline wooooooooooosssh
@@shgh2695 *stares at comment, questioning life choices* (in whisper) darn it
Found the cadet
cheapy peepy guess you’d march cadets
i’m not crying ur crying
Not me
Shut up 😭
Gusto mo paiyaki Kita para Malayan mo Na waking hits Karin gaya ng via Na cyber cram kagays mo run sila mga cyber crame
Simply attending TRYOUTS for anything (DCI, your school jazz band, even periodically interviewing for a job even when you aren't looking to move) teaches you valuable personal improvement and life skills. Getting outside of your box is key to be coming a better person and feeling great about yourself and your potential!
Thank you for this video! I feel it fills a gap in knowledge for many people
I've gone in like three months from "I want to quit band" to "Hmm maybe if I practice hard I'll audition for DCI at some point"
Im in regular marching band and honestly, if you want a good extracurricular to be in, marching band is your best bet if youre already in symphonic band. Marching band is basically watered down drum corp. marching band mainly consists of teens in high school where we do a week or two of seven or twelve hour practices called “band camp.” Its definitely a good start before getting into drum corp because if you do marching band first, youll already be used to the extreme heat and extreme workout. The best part of marching band however is the fact that you basically join a family consisting of your section. Im a trumpet and the trumpet section in my band is a super tight-knit community. We always go out to eat together before games, we have multiple group chats connecting us when we arent in band together, we have a chant we say at the end of rehearsal (one guy yells “trumpets, shark bait” and everyone else yells “broo-haa-haa” in response), and we even have a minecraft server we play on from time to time. Its such a great feeling to find people who accept you and wanna be friends with you. Thats how it was for me, i joined the marching band with very few friends, but i ended up becoming one of the most well known people in the band, making multiple friends within and without my section. Marching band is a super invigorating experience and i highly suggest joining it if drum corp is too much for you.
Agreed! I loved competition and you form such a tight bond and make such good friends.
Awesome video! This is the closest description of DCI that I've ever heard without being a 30 minute Ted Talk lol. Keep up the good work!
I'm considering trying out for Crown pit 2021. (Might not make it since I would only be 16-17 at that point and I literally started percussion in high school.
😭 Two of the Crown instructors that I know said I'll probably make 2022 tho.) Thank you so much for your inspiration and encouragement!! I certainly agree that I fell in love with DCI the moment I discovered it. Also it's a relief that you made this video so that I don't have to explain it to my parents. 💖💖 Definitely got a sub from me :)
Definitely go to an audition camp! Getting your face out there is one of the best things you can do.
Try out because you never know. The experience of trying out is a learning experience regardless
Crown has beginner competitive mb that start as low as 8th grade
how'd it go?
did you make it?
I have to tell you that as a fan who has never participated in DCI that I have the utmost respect for all of you performers. I’m old now. 51! I used to march in high school and completely understand why you want to do this activity. I so enjoy going to see the competition in Tennessee when they come around. I’m always amazed at the perfection of the shows. Many times it has brought me to tears of joy because there was something quite spectacular about the performance that touched me. Keep on doing what you do because there are lots of fans out there like me who simply love what you do.
Very well done. I’ve been involved with drum corps since the 70s marched in 6 Finals. Taught, judged and my daughter marched as well. I really appreciate you making this heartfelt video. Drum Corps brought lifelong friends for me I still connect with people I met and marched with over 40 years ago. I can only hope it continues to bring joy to future generations. Hopeful for s 2021 season.
I marched 75 and 76 with Guardsmen from Illinois. In all eras drum corps is really hard work. A great memory for me is 1976 dci. After prelims we knew we did our best show ever, and the crowd enjoyed it. We needed a score over 82 to make finals for the first time. When the PA announcer said "83..." we just erupted in pure joy!! All the grueling hard work (like the video mentioned) paid off! It was a different era with more strict field judging, but the rush still the same.
BAND IS THE MOST BEAUTIFUL THING TO EXIST
I know the guy at 7:04! He’s the low brass tech for my high schools marching band and gives me private tuba lessons! He got me into DCI and is encouraging me to hopefully one day do it. This is probably gonna get buried but I thought I’d share!
no wayyy its jerry I miss him :(
As a current freshman in high school and a kid who has admired the DCI/ marching band world since I was extreamly young I was able to do my first year of marching and it was the best experiance of my life. We won 2nd place at nationals and It felt increadible. I got so many new friends, more fit, and most importantly more self confidance. I was able to put myself out there and work hard on something I never would have unless it was marching. Now unfortunatly im going through some very sivere health problems so I might not be able to march for a while but when I do become healthy again Im going to march my heart out again. When I become older I know I want to join DCI and this just made me want to even more. So thank you for posting this.
Feel better soon so you can get back on the field!
I made BD in 1984 as a rookout to the entire activity -- had never even marched a slide before, because back then, most HS bands were squads of 4, face direction of march, mirror drill, etc. Drum corps alums becoming band directors and bringing their corps sensibilities to their programs hadn't started yet.
My mother didn't really understand the appeal, but made my flight to Concord to audition my Xmas present, and my full tour fee (only %450 back then) my birthday present. She supported me the whole way.
Dad? Hadn't a clue...could not comprehend why I'd want to do such a thing....was actually kinda against the idea.
Fast forward 12 years...I'm co-founder/director of a small corps out of L.A. called Nightfire. We had a show in San Diego -- where "s from -- and both parents came to watch the show...tough because Mom was fighting mesothelioma at the time and would pass a year later.
I sat with them when Nightfire was on, and they sat for the entire competition....which included BD with the "Club Blue: A Gangster Chronicle" show that would win DCI that year. Santa Clara was also there with "La Mer."
After the show, Dad said he finally got it
La Mer was a fine show. Fine core as well.
In all eras, dci very hard work. I marched in the mid 70's. You did a great job explaining this great activity!
This video was my last push. I can’t wait to audition and be apart of something greater
Did you make it?
Joshua Grant did you make it
How’d it go?
Did you make it?
I marched with the Battalion last summer, a new open class corps from Utah. I don't know where I would be without that program, I'm honored to be a part of it.
just the sound of that crowd in the spartacus intro gave me shivers
I lucked out. My marching years came when both PBS and ESPN would actually air DCI Finals every year, if not a few regional contests before!
My high school also served as a practice space and resting spot for Star of Indiana, Spirit of Atlanta, Velvet Knights, and Blue Devils when they competed in the local DCI event near where I lived. The cool thing about that was that our local show (Drums Across the Tri-State in Huntington, WV) was usually the weekend right before championship week, so the visiting corps would be both pumped AND at the top of their game for the season. While it was cool to host Star and Blue Devils as top corps at the time, my favorites were Spirit and the VK. Such cool kids AND staff!
When VK stayed, I went with friends to hang out with the corps members sleeping over at our school. We helped some VK members break into our school's library to use the computers that were hooked up to the Internet, which at that time was still extremely rare. After that, we broke into our science lab, but only to hang out. I remember the discussion being about D&D and other RPGs. Yeah, no doubt DCI's a world-class athletic activity, but make no mistake: it's also rather quite nerdy!
For what it's worth, the visiting corps always slept on the gym floor at our school. Well, they all did except for the Blue Devils, who took a look at our Appalachian public school and decided to go seek out the nearest university dorms. Can't say I blame them, but it still felt a slight when their staff came up to our band director and literally told him, "Nuh-uh! We're outta here after practice!"
joshuadramsey, I’m sorry they were jerks!
Seriously, thank you for this video.
Dci is a bunch of people with an obsession at least when it comes to drumline
I'm in the woodwind section, I was wondering if it's too late to learn snares because I low-key feel like it's too late because I'm in 11th grade but I also low-key wanna be in DCI lol so...
So I wouldn't learn a percussion instrument because that always seems to be way more competitive (especially snare), you basically have to drum non stop for a few years before you are good enough to make a world class drumline. If you are serious about doing drum corps though I would recommend a brass instrument because it's less competitive and it's easier to make the transition from woodwinds. Hope this helps, good luck
@@grantmiller9614 oof, lol I understand. Seems cool to be in DCI period though. I'll see what happens, lol thanks 😊
If woodwind try out either Contra/Tuba or Mellophone, from my knowledge and experience these are the top for woodwind to brass. Good luck!
@@setiyoung8947 honestly it's best to go for anything that has a mass of it, for example there may be 30ish trumpets
I know a Saxaphone senior who learned Trumpet in 3 months and made it into an open-class drum corps.
Hey man. This video has made me feel really confident in everything that I'm gonna be doing this summer. I'm 17 and I'm going to be marching with a new open class drum corp that was started up in West Virginia last year called Appalachian Gold. I wish more and more people could feel this way about the marching arts instead of seeing it as a band that walks around on the field. I live for this activity and I look forward to everything that will come for the 2019 season.
Don't know how I didn't see this until now, but it was a fantastic video! DCI was definitely one of the best things I've ever done. And although I couldn't mentally get myself to march more than one season, it still had a large impact on me. Countless memories and friendships. It truly is something special.
Simply put, Drum Corps is "Marching Music's Major League". I'm an alumnus of the Cavaliers Drum and Bugle Corps from 1977--1987 (Baritone/Contrabass player). As performers, most of us are so focused that we try to block the crowd's reaction, but when it hits, it's a feeling that's very hard to explain. Sometimes the crowd can be so loud that it overpowers our playing, and that's when it becomes difficult. When your group hits on all cylinders as Santa Clara Vanguard did in the closer (1988 DCI Finals) with all their emotion and power, it's a pretty awesome feeling! That's a hard feeling to beat, knowing that you left absolutely everything on the field, with no regrets. That's what makes it all worth it (win or lose). As for the Cavaliers and myself, it's the Brotherhood that lasts a lifetime that keeps us coming back. This video pretty much sums it all up... well done, Grant. SPLOOIE-4-Life (and beyond)😎💚🤍🖤🏳🌈 ua-cam.com/video/RV6AaSqUXiQ/v-deo.html
Honestly I'm a senior in high school and this is my first time doing color guard but I absolutely love it. I've been thinking about doing dci and now I'm definitely going to save up for it.
Phantom Regiment 2016 was the show that I saw first live, and I was captivated. No, it wasn’t the best show Regiment had ever performed, but man, it was stupid cool to a 14 year old me.
I eventually got in at Regiment, and the thing that has stuck with me is the experiences, the good, the bad, the funny, the sad. My advice for anyone marching is to absorb it all, it will stick with you forever. I’ve marched 4 years now, and this 5th upcoming season will be my age out. Don’t forget your roots, and don’t forget the journey you took to bloom into who you became.
I’m trying out for regiment 24’!!! :), what would you recommend me practicing the most coming into next years auditions?
@@Mady3en prepare everything, come in like a sponge and be ready to soak in all the knowledge you can and be ready to apply it on the fly, and CHOOSE to be confident!
Made me cry. Thank you for making such an excellent representation of this activity.
In 1987 I meet My Now Husband James, We both Marched with Cavaliers, James Played Tuba, I being the Small Flame was in the Guard. In 1988 James didn't come back; i was devastated. In 1989, James walked threw the door at one weekend tryouts, I've never let him out of my site again.... Still to this day we make it to World Finals weekend.
Absolutely amazing summary of DCI. Being just a freshman who recently got through my fist competition show and spending my first 12+ straight hours with the band mates I could definitively see how great marching really is and I’m sure DCI or even DCA is ample that especially with the way you described it. I can’t wait!
I'm barely starting out as a freshman snare in highschool and i really want to be in dci..thank you for helping me figure out if i want to do it or not :)👍
Amazing video Grant!!! I loved every second of it and it was SO well made!!! I hope to someday meet you bro!!! Keep up the amazing content
I wish fees stayed there, when I first looked into it it seemed like the average fees were 3,800 for World Class. Fees now seem to be closer to 4,000. Personally my 2020 age-out contract is 4,500.
I went to grand nationals this year in Indianapolis and I couldnt agree anymore with this video. LOVE IT
I’m sad I aged out already and never joined. But honestly, the thought of wanting to quit scared me ngl. I’m sincerely impressed how everyone does it no matter what placement they get at the end of every season. Actually making it through the whole season is a victory within itself.
DCA is a thing, it's cheaper, less strenuous, all that
of course, it's not DCI, but it's something that you should consider
This video is.. I can’t even express how great this video is. Not because I’m in the marching band but because it is so beautifully put together. 👍👍👍
It’s crazy to think that the cut is 22 and such young folks can perform impeccably like a Cirque du Soleil artist
I miss being in a marching band in my country the unitedkingdom but we don't do it anymore I really like it to come back some of your shows are out of this world
I’m currently a freshman, I’m really hoping that 3-4 years from now I can be a part of this wonderful sport. I’ve truly fallen In love with marching band over this past year and I’m really hoping that I’m able to do this after senior year
God bless you for making this video! I've been hoping for this kind of vid to come along
If you were actually there for Spartacus I just want you to know how jealous I am of you. If you got more years I hope your able to march them all, especially your age out.
At this point in the evolution of drum corps, I would recommend that someone who has never done it before consider trying out for a non-world class corps, or at least one not in the top echelons. Couple of reasons. 1. Cost/Committment. Generally these are the more expensive corps to join and require intense commitment to the rehearsal and touring schedules. 2. Experience. Also generally, the people who audition for the top corps have lots of experience in their performance area. This isn't to say you can't try out, but understand that these corps are looking for the absolute best possible candidates to join up in order to win the Championship. Regardless of which corps you get into, I can guarantee you've just joined the best non-blood-related family outside of the military.
This is actually an amazing video. I almost cried during Jenny's story xc. Anyway, thank you.
I always wished I had played a brass instrument so I could join DCI. I played flute and I LOVED competing in high school.
Low key just a colts ad :P
I mean I only really had access to the Colt's videos and the DCI channels youtube videos
@@grantmiller9614 yeah I'm just messing with ya
@@grantmiller9614 ok so I guess your ad worked because I'm contracted for 2020 colts 🔺 lmao
@@smartaIec LOLOLOL
*doesn't see Cascades on list @**5:08*
...where did I march last summer then??
Justyce M its on there right under crown
Grant Miller oooh sorry I’m illiterate 😂
Also used to seeing Seattle before Cascades
soo I was under the assumption that DCI was a college band competition only, it doesn't appear that's the case. anyone can audition for any corps assuming they have what it takes? that's a lot better than just college, really cool
Anyone between 14 and 22. And if you have the money.
Dca corps are all age and less time consuming
@@SWilla00946 so dci is rich kids only basically. nobody else can afford to not work all summer and pay for the work they put in, pretty messed up really. the shame is all the talent the world misses in this largely excluded group, someone should get paid at least basic expenses for something of this magnitude
@@soldatvonzufall2548, there are scholarships available, but it might be hard for a student to find them. That’s something we need to make easier.
All though marching band can be draining for your mental self and your emotional self its also the best thing thatd ever happened to me. I have met awesome people. Im a sophomore and this year is my 2nd year marching and im in percussion, and a few years from now ill come back to this comment and ill tell yall whether i have done drum corps or not! Wish me luck!
Good luck! Go to some camps to help prepare yourself to audition.
Lovely video. Really made me remember how much I love people I’ve marched with. Thanks man!
There has to be a way to monetize this so it at least is free for participants but to be honest I think what makes it so good is because you really have to live it to do it and it shows on the field
Wow this really reminded me why I can’t wait to go back to Corps after this off year! Thanks man!
Drum corps 2019 is VERY different from Drum Corps 1975, 1985, and 1995. It was an activity that was affiliated with Post WW2 alumni military service organizations. It also was originally known as DRUM and BUGLE corps. The pit instruments were not set at the front line back in the day. And there was no such thing as AMPLIFICATION ... it was all lung power for the brass players! NO mixing boards either.
When the DCI organization came into being, it turned the activity into an organized business. Many of the original show and competition requirements either morphed into something completely different or were totally eliminated. While the underlying spirit is still there, I don't completely agree with all of what the activity has become. Basically, it's a contest of who can outdo who using the biggest and best props and backdrops. Despite this, I have and I will still support the kids who participate. I think there's so much more DCI could do to promote the activity to alleviate the financial burden on the kids and level the field a bit more, but that is a different discussion for another day. PS - I am available for consultation upon request and by fee only.
gotten ludicrous, hasn't it? and now Madison is going """all-gender"""..... *eyeroll*
In the last 10-15 years, it seems like things have moved farther away from the roots of D&BC than in the previous 25-30 years combined since the inception of DCI
ha, the percussion director at our school played marimba for phantom regiment in 2008
This video was great. It gave me a real confidence boost for my DCI ability. Im gonna be trying out on Tenors for the Seattle Cascades next year.
I’m a 17 year old boutta audition later this year for BD in December for tenor drum and I know it’s gonna take a hell a lot of work and then some but this made me even more confident in my audition, thanks Grant hopefully I can look back on this in my early 20’s and be happy on my decision
It's for the love and dedication to Drum Corp! Always a member for life!
5:56 I love that performance! One of my favorites! We watched it in class.
do you know the name of the performance
Madison Whyte Yup. It’s by the Phantom Regiment (2008) “SPARTACUS” opener and show.
It’s also easier to just type “Spartacus Marching Band” into UA-cam. It’ll be the second or first option. Definitely a performance that’s worth watching.
Enjoy! ;)
Losing a week of spring training was both a blessing and a curse cause we got more summer but extra death when it started.
Drum Corps is Marching Band on every drug known to man
Wait only 4.9k views? This video is so well made.
1:38 that's Calgary Stampede showband I will be playing there in 4 years
@Panzerwaffe Guy yeah lol
absolutely amazing video, couldnt have explained it better if i tried, almost made me cry. such a weird thing to explain, and that personal story was a real gut wrencher
My color guard director marched with Blue Knights once :’)
When I was in DC in Europe (in the 80s 🙄) We didn't have Trombones, just sop, mel, bar &Cbass) The US is so different! We didn't have to leave in our early 20s, we had 40+ yr olds marching etc. We didn't have to pay that much! Or buy our own instruments. We just had a monthly fee. Either 2 Corps always won. And a few of their members went to the Devils for a season too. Oh they were the days. I played Soprano, then Snare (crash course, shit at it 🤣) but the fun we had, and got to travel all around Europe! Good days 😊💖
@Micah the Nerd Saxophonist I remember the Scouts yes!! I left DC in '90
I marched this year and I know a lot of the people in this video. One of em was my tech this year :)
4:46 I was in that train!!
gather around if you wanna hear a story of an engineer ;)
Old and fat now, I was in the newly reformed Southwind Drum and Bugle Corps WAAAAAY back in 1991 and '92 out of Montgomery Alabama on the snare. They've had their troubles staying in the game over the years, and the issue was always money. Even with the money we paid upfront, there was never enough for transportation, food, etc., and I remember the cost was almost always the issue with staying solvent. Luckily, we had good management we the corp restarted. We played in DCI's Class A/Division II {think Junior Drum and Bugle Corps} "back in the day" and it was an absolute grind, almost a love-hate relationship. The love came from actually winning! We took the World Champions in Dallas both years. Pretty exciting! The hate came from our show's theme...OMG, it was The Little Mermaid in '91 and Robin Hood in '92. It was TERRIBLE, and the music arrangement, especially for the drumline, was super-easy to play, allowing the formations to be complex, thus, the show looked and sounded great.
Almost 30 years later, would I recommend it?? HELL YES! After the limelight was over, it DID make for better individuals (although I didn't keep up with anyone in the Corp!), and personally, the fun came in later years being proficient in switching over to drumset, thus have been in a multitude of bands playing cover tunes on drumset over the past 30 years. I have a lil gig this Fri/Sat. Sweet!
Bro I would’ve killed to see the Phantom Regiment in that 2008 performance.
I don’t think I could’ve possible explained this better myself. Great job with this video
A lot of what you said is true, but it mostly fits for drum corps after the ‘80’s -ish. Take a look at drum corps between the late ‘60’ and mid ‘70’s. BIG difference in shows and music. But as far as life long friends becoming family, that IS true.
I’m a sophomore trumpet in Oklahoma and I don’t have much money. I’m trying to gather some money to audition for genesis down in Texas. I’ve always wanted to do dci and I’ve been really driven by my schools marching band and watching 80s/90s bugle corps. I plan on auditioning next year. But I already have a lot on my plate this year and I lack the money to audition. i just have to sit there and practice while I wait. How I’m different from everyone else in my band is that I’m in love with the process as well as the result.
Thatpilot Whostiny Corps often have sponsors who help kids with finances.
And here i am in a HIGH SCHOOL band and my fee for this year was $3,500...
Wow!
Damn what kind of high school do you march in? Ours was like 800 dollars
@@patrickalvarado7687 Broken Arrow
@@DUBWUB3 Yo u practically are DCI just with a school attached.
In 2019, the average cost to march a world class corp was $2,400. In 2024, it is now $4,500 to march world class...
My band got work with one of the caption heads(Dwight Emmert) from phantom regiment 2008 and we got the best score in my schools history
However... you didn't answer the fundamental question of why it's called a Drum and BUGLE Corps if it's just like a marching band that practices a lot. For a lot of us that marched "back then" when you ask about the question of "why", it's not only about being a part of something larger but the brotherhood (kinship) and traditions of member's past, present and future; the heritage. IMHO, it's what separates the corps of today vs yester-year. I believe DCI is losing it's identity to BOA which comes back to your first point; "...it's a more rehearsed marching band". When a corps used to approach and enter the field for competition, you didn't need an announcement. You KNEW their identity from their uniforms. Sure there were uniform modifications over the years but not throw away each year. Then there's the complexities of the shows. Let me give props to the members who march today! They'd march circles around what we did... however, we didn't need to have a PhD in music to understand the show, read the background story of the hows and whys. It was music in motion...not about conveying a story which took all tour for an audience to understand. I think, fundamentally, there will be some type of convergence of DCI and BOA. Just like back when there was VFW, DCA and newly DCI. Just some random thoughts for an old dude marching member when ticks and bugles were a thing.
One of the great things about "old" drum and bugle corps was that the G bugles gave the activity its own, unique sound, (as did the style of music that was played) and the marching style was quite different from marching bands...the activity has completely lost what made it unique
I cry everytime
Marching drum Corp gives you an advantage when looking for a job. Especially in highly competitive highschool bands.
auditioning for BK this year!! it's been my motivation all through high school. so so nervous, i know if i make it in though it will be the time of my life
5:39 OML OML THATS MY HOMETOWN BAND SCREE THEY LOVE CALGARY SHOW BAND
do you know what that performance was called
@@madisonwhyte976 That was our 2018 Soundsport show (ua-cam.com/video/S6hyVgV28bI/v-deo.html). It's quite watered down from what we normally do becuase it's hard to do a lot on a Soundsport field with 150 members. You should check out some of our full shows, they are at a much higher caliber than this was at, since we had a full field and 11 minutes to develop it on.
I just might be a stupid High Schooler, but I'm I'm a small marching band, the band is family, the travels, grueling practice, no matter what really happens, the director is right, band is family and it's fun.
Damn my eyes are so sweaty😭😭
Yes! Someone who marched in Colts! Currently in CC, next year will make four years
Phenomenal video, Grant. By far the best explanation video I’ve ever seen.
Peep me in that academy company front though TSAOTA
The guy I like is leaving for tour in a few weeks, and he sent me this to explain why :)
I was first exposed to Drum Corps in the early seventies. I loved the military-like marching and maneuvering and the familiar music that was played ergo "West Side Story" and "Danny Boy". I have the greatest respect for the tremendous efforts put in by the corps members and volunteers but the product produced now is painful for me to hear and I don't like trying to comprehend the story being acted out on the field. Smart uniforms and non-amplified music have disappeared and given way to mostly obscure and unidentifiable sounds. The days of if you play it, you carry it are gone and members in costume dance instead of march. Obviously I am old, and have not kept up with the "progress". I can't relive the past, but I don't have to participate in the present or future. I went to Indianapolis this year and after two days I couldn't face a third. My ticket went to waste but I felt relieved for not having to sit through another session. Sadly, I have attended my last competition but, at least, I have some great memories of the CYO Nationals I attended at Boston College.
Greetings from Malaysia! It's very inspiring videothat I wanted to do the drum corps in my short teenage life. But I come from a marching band with some finanncial problems, so I had done the marching show for once. Is it possible that I could make it for Open Class Drum Corps and then World Class?
Now I have to learn trumpet
I would want to be in dci but I play a woodwind instrument
Off to show my parents!
I was an 08 Phantom member, and im still and 08 fanboy
My band directors son said training was like boot camp
dang phantom regiment is based in my hometown holy-