By Ruth Bruhn

Every May brings us a void of time to fill between the end of the WGI Sport of the Arts season and the start of the DCI summer tour. But until then, here are some of the things to look forward to this summer!

1. The Academy's Revival

After The Academy secured their first trip into DCI Finals behind a bone-chilling 2016 season, we can't wait to see what the "Corpse" follows up with this summer!

2. Uniform Wars

DCI uniforms have debatably changed more in the past five years than ever before. Last year, we saw everything from horn-like members in white body suits with no shakos to traditionalist corps such as Cavaliers sporting uniforms without their signature green look. What will the uniform designers have in store for us this year?

3. Boston Crusaders

As the third-oldest drum corps in existence, Boston is rooted strongly in tradition and is never afraid to cross the line of creativity and unconventionalism. However, that's exactly why we love them. With new and old faces creating this year's support and instructional staff, we can't wait to see the powerhouse that is Boston throw down and deliver pride to the red and black.


Boston Crusaders at the 2016 DCI World Championships

4. Defending Champs

The Bluecoats of Canton, Ohio, were the champions of DCI for the first time in corps history and have been creating a buzz in the marching community. Occasionally referred to as the "hipster" corps, perhaps the most captivating thing about The Bluecoats is how it's nearly impossible to pinpoint exactly why we can't look away from them. Maybe it's their innovative props, use of technology, or possibly their massive sound. Enchanting performances aside, we are huge fans and are anxious to see what The Bluecoats come out with to defend their first-place ranking!

5. New World Class Corps

Genesis made the massive move from Open to World Class this offseason. How will the corps from Austin, Texas, fare in its first full season touring with the World Class corps? In 2011 and 2013, Genesis received "Most Improved Open Class" and has received two bronze medals at DCI World Champion Finals. Fellow corps The Crossmen are located less than 100 miles away from Genesis. Texas has much to be proud of in terms of Drum Corps excellence.

6. 50th Anniversary Of Santa Clara Vanguard

A classic and comfortably "West Coast" corps, Santa Clara Vanguard never fails with their timeless show design, themes, and attention to detail. With 2017 marking their 50th year anniversary, we know whatever SCV debuts this summer will be something to remember. Oh... let's not forget they added Michael Gaines to their design team. Welcome back, Michael!


Santa Clara Vanguard at the 2016 DCI World Championships

7. The Blue Devils

They are rarely unnoticed and are the winners of over half of all DCI Championships… Love 'em or hate 'em, the Blue Devils are historically successful and are one of the cleanest corps around. Also known for changing their show design frequently -- but flawlessly -- throughout the season, each performance from BD feels different and special to DCI fans.

8. "Men Are From Mars"

A top drum corps of 150 young men performing a show inspired by a social concept? Sounds awesome to us and undeniably unique. We can't wait to see how the Cavaliers put their own spin on this classic catch phrase and personify it into a drum corps show! Will there be a throwback to one of DCI's classics from 1995? Stay tuned.

9. Blue Knights With Something Up Their Sleeves? 

On the note of artistic social concepts in drum corps shows, the Blue Knights come to mind without mention. Sticking to earthy, epic, and timeless themes, last year's "The Great Event" left us speechless and wondering what had just gone down in the arena in front of us. Knowing BK, we anticipate something similar for this season, hopefully causing viewers to think in new and positively uncomfortable ways.

10. Every Corps

Whether it's open or world class, everyone at FloMarching is bonded under one common passion: drum corps and the marching arts. We can't wait to get out to as many live shows as possible and catch the FloMarching live stream for those we can't attend! It goes without saying that the "top 12" corps are talented, engaging, and reputable. However, every performer in each corps will push far past his or her mental and physical limits this summer. Let's give recognition and love to every group whenever possible.


Blue Knights performing at the 2016 DCI World Championships

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