I have to ask - Drum Corps Dopers?

[LucysLogic101]

are there any Dopers that are Drum Corps fans? Furthermore, has anyone marched with a corps (if so, what section and for how long)? I just caught the 2003 DCI World Champs on PBS, I'd seen the Eastern Classic show in Allentown, and so I was compelled to find out.

To those of you that know what im talking about - how long have you been a fan? favorite corps? and what did you think about the Finals in FL this year?

[Nanook]

Yes, yes, My God, YES!!! I caught my first PBS International Drum Corps Competition last year by accident on a night when I was having a bout of insomnia and channel surfing. I was so amazed and moved by what I saw I burst into tears. As a person of the theater, a musician and a teacher myself, I was captivated by the sheer brilliant theatricality and excitement of the routines and the amazing musicianship of the students. It is NOT easy to play the Scherzo of Shostakovich's Tenth Symphony while marching in formation ( as one of the corps did last year)---incredibly thrilling!! I was delighted to see the show aired again this weekend and was astonished to find out that PBS has been televising this for 28 years! Where have I been all this time???
In addition to the marvelous pageantry of the routines, I find the commitment and the camaderie of the students genuinely moving. In an age when network "reality" shows CONSTANTLY put the emphasis on the worst of human nature, such as contestants working and conniving AGAINST each other or treating one other despicably, it is immensely refreshing and uplifting to see a program where dedicated young people share and enjoy a communal experience for the sheer LOVE of it. I have the greatest admiration for the educators who provide such an amazing character-building opportunity for their students.

[AmericanMaid]

I've been a big fan of Drum Corps for eight years due to my college marching band experience and fellow bandos who did the corps. Hands down, it can be the most thrilling musical experience.
It amazes me that there's still snobbery against marching band and Drum Corps. I've heard people sneer that it doesn't really require musical talent to march an instrument around. My alma mater refuses to recognize our marching band as a musical ensemble.
D.C.I. rules!

[LucysLogic101]

i am happy now. it is always nice to meet fellow DC fans

[medstar]

Have any of you seen the movie Drumline and liked it? I might rent this movie based on your recommendations.

[LucysLogic101]

okay, so the thing about drumline is that it's not about drum corps at all. it's more a look at a Gramblings-style college marching band.
now, i'm not looking to offend anyone, but if you're kind of like me - a suburban white girl - some of the hip hop culture vibes in the movie will be lost on you.
and it's not really even a Marching Band movie...it focuses on the percussion section. They do a very good job of showing how much pressure and responsibility there is to be a part of such a line, but that's all they talk about...the drumline. hence the title.
so it's good if youre a drummer. if you're, oh say...a clarinet or a flute...it might not float your boat as much.
so while my friends and i were disheartened at the fact that they didnt really portray drum corps in the manner we wished, it's a step in the right direction. It shows that this isn't your father's Marching Band anymore.
rent it, what the hell =)

[Turbo Dog]

Never been in a drum corps, but the first time I saw a southern college football game, I loved it. Sinbad (the comedian, not the sailor) was right on the money. Unless you've seen a southern football game, especially the black schools, you haven't experienced life. Halftime really is an excuse for the band. I don't have a favorite as I love them all.

medstar I rented Drumline, expecting to hate it and wound up buying it. Very decent and watchable movie, and an excellent one if you enjoy bands. After watching it several times, I usually wind up just skipping to the music parts because hey, that's why I watched it in the first place. But not a bad movie at all, even if you aren't into marching bands. Check it out. Like me, you might be surprised.