QUESTIONS & ANSWERS

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What is Drum & Bugle Corps?

Drum and bugle corps are musical marching ensembles that combine brass instruments, percussion, and color guard to perform highly choreographed shows on a football-field-style stage. They are like marching bands but have some clear differences: they typically don’t include woodwind instruments (like flutes or saxophones), and they are usually independent organizations, not affiliated with schools or colleges. These corps perform in parades, exhibitions, festivals, and especially in competitive circuits during summer tours.

What a Drum & Bugle Corps Is

  • Music & Movement: They march precise patterns on the field while playing music with brass and percussion sections and presenting visual elements through a color guard (flags, rifles, dance).
  • Independent Groups: Most are not part of schools; instead, they’re nonprofit organizations that recruit members, often youth and young adults.
  • Competitive Focus: Many corps spend weeks training and touring in the summer to compete in judged shows.

Below is an example of a contemporary World Class Drum Corps performance to help illustrate the scale, intensity, and artistry of the activity:

WATCH DRUM & BUGLE CORPS IN ACTION

Drum Corps International (DCI) is the primary governing organization for junior drum and bugle corps in North America — often described as “Marching Music’s Major League™.” It organizes, sanctions, and judges, competitions, sets rules, and runs a summer tour that culminates in the DCI World Championships.

What is DCI Soundsport?
DCI SoundSport is a competitive performance program by Drump Corps International that allows ensemble of any age, size, instrumentation and skill level to showcase their musical talent. Unlike traditional drum corps, which compete on a full football field, SoundSport events take place on a smaller 20-yard by 30-yard performance surface and prioritize creativity, education, and entertainment over strict competition. The program features various categories, including scholastic, community, and mini-corps, and can serve as a stepping stone for groups to advance to higher-level competitions. 

When is the next Open House & Audition, and what does it cost?

A list of Legacy Open Houses & Auditions can be seen at CAMP SCHEDULE.  This will always be kept up to date, and you can also see an updated list when you register for a camp.  The cost for each camp is $50 which covers instructional and venue costs.

Can I see what the past Open Houses & Auditions where like?

We continue to add new pages with updates from our camps.  To see pictures, videos and student feedback check out our CAMP HIGHLIGHTS page.

Can you describe "move-in-day"?
Veterans often say: “Auditions get you in. Move-ins change who you are.”
Move-in-day is the official start of the season for a drum & bugle corps member and marks the transition from auditions to full-time life with the corps. It’s the day members arrive at the spring training site, move their belongings into a gym or dorm space, and formally begin living, rehearsing, and traveling together as one ensemble under the umbrella of Drum Corps International.
 
The day typically begins with check-in and orientation. Members are assigned sleeping areas and bus seats, complete medical and administrative paperwork, and meet staff, leadership, and fellow performers. Expectations around conduct, health, rehearsal standards, and daily routines are clearly explained. For many—especially rookies—this is the first realization that drum corps is a full-time commitment, not just an extension of marching band.
 
Move-In Day almost always includes the first rehearsal. While usually shorter than a normal tour day, it introduces the physical and mental demands of the activity: fundamentals, movement technique, breathing, and ensemble basics. Equipment checks, uniform measurements, and health assessments also happen, emphasizing safety, hydration, and injury prevention from the start.
 
By the end of the day, members share their first corps meal and settle in for an early night, knowing that full-length rehearsal days begin immediately. More than logistics, Move-In Day represents commitment, culture, and transformation—it’s the moment when individuals officially become part of something much bigger than themselves.

What is a “day in the life” while on summer tour?
A typical summer tour day with a Drum Corps International corps is highly structured, physically demanding, and focused on constant improvement. Members wake early, rehearse most of the day, travel frequently, and perform at night—often on very little sleep. Every block of time has a purpose, whether it’s refining music, cleaning drill, or recovering physically.
 
Days revolve around rehearsal “blocks” that separate visual (marching and movement), music, sectionals, and full ensemble work. Meals, hydration, and medical care are built into the schedule because the activity is as athletic as it is musical. Even on show days, rehearsal still happens—performances are the reward, not the break.
 
Despite the intensity, tour life builds strong bonds. Members live, work, and travel together nonstop, learning discipline, resilience, and teamwork. The routine is demanding, but many alumni describe it as one of the most meaningful experiences of their lives.

What does the summer 2027 tuition cover?

The cost of membership for the marching season spans the Move In date through the return trip from DCI in Indianapolis.  Details coming in the fall of 2027.

How do I become a member for the 2027 season?

You can sign up for 2027 membership at any time. More detail will be forthcoming, but you can sign up any time at our MEMBERSHIP FORM.

I'd like to receive more information on Legacy

Check out our NEWS PAGE for the latest information as Legacy ready’s for the 2026 season.  If you need additional information contact Deaven Knowles, Legacy Assistant Director at deaven@legacydbc.org.