In basic definition, "A drum and bugle corps is a musical marching unit consisting of brass instruments, percussion instruments, and color guard. Drum corps are specialized marching bands. They operate as independent organizations (no scholastic affiliation), who perform in competitions, parades, festivals and other civic functions." - Author Unknown
There are 3 levels of drum corps that are sepa
rated by age restrictions, costs, amount of rehearsals/performances, and more. The 3 levels can be related to Baseball. Drum Corps International (DCI) is like Major League Baseball, it's the big time. Drum Corps Associates (DCA) is like Minor League Baseball. Small Drum Corps Association (SDCA) is like a semi professional baseball team. All new corps must begin in SDCA and as their membership grows, they may begin to apply for DCA or DCI status. SDCA performances primarily take place on an indoor basketball courts and are judge by "people's choice". For the audience, the corps are there to entertain, but the members are in it for much more. Joining the Crusaders Drum and Bugle corps is a rewarding, educational, and fun experience! Musically, you can learn a new instrument or improve on a current one. Visually, by marching, you can learn excellent body carriage/posture, how to move in formations, or how to spin color guard equipment. Regionally, the CV Crusaders will allow you to represent a performing ensemble of the Chippewa Valley area and surrounding schools. Participation also can teach you important life skills such as self discipline, leadership, commitment, and teamwork. The following link (>1 min) shows a preview of some SDCA performances. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WBX6xbbQBKE&feature=player_embedded
For more information on SDCA visit: www.thesdca.org
For more information on DCA visit: www.dcacorps.org
For more information on DCI visit: www.dci.org
