Drum Corps

Drum Corps is a musical marching band whose members play various percussion instruments. This type of marching unit is often seen performing during parades, festivals, as well as in civic functions. Drum corps are also part of many football or field sport competitions where in the hosting school or team would perform prior to the game.

Also referred to as marching percussion, the drum corps usually consists of two divisions: the front ensemble and the drum line. The front ensemble is also called the “pit” as they stand closest to the audience. Around eight to twelve musicians form the pit. The members of this line perform using orchestral instruments such as xylophones, cymbals, gongs, vibraphones, timpini, and glockenspiel.

The drum line or the “battery” are positioned along the color guard. They use instruments like the snare drum, marching cymbals, tenor drums, bass drums, and marching tonal.

Most drum corps perform acoustically. Today however, other groups utilize speakers and electronic amplifiers.

Drum corps also participate in competitions. Every year, percussion groups prepare new performances and musical repertoires which includes jazz, rock, contemporary, Broadway, and even Latin music. Drum corps presentations are judge according to musical and visual performance.

Drum units also uses color guards as a part of their visual programs, These color guards are mainly used to enhance the band's performance by using bare poles, balls, flags, and sabers for visual effects.