DCI

January Annual Meeting Update: The 2 Proposed DCI Rule Changes That Passed

January Annual Meeting Update: The 2 Proposed DCI Rule Changes That Passed

At the 2025 DCI January Annual Meetings, rule change proposals for the 2025 DCI season were voted on - here's which proposals passed

Jan 12, 2025 by Natalie Shelton
January Annual Meeting Update: The 2 Proposed DCI Rule Changes That Passed

At the 2025 DCI January Annual Meetings, rule change proposals for the 2025 DCI season were voted on by members of the DCI World Class and the 2024 Open Class finalists. 

Out of the six proposed rule changes that were on the docket for discussion this weekend (check out the full list here), here are the 2 rule changes that ended up being approved by the voting party and will take effect for the 2025 DCI season:

  • Solo Instrument Addition PASSED with amended language 
    • The accepted rule change proposal was amended and accepted as follows: In a performance, a single, featured instrument not otherwise permitted by rule 4.8 may be used. Notwithstanding instruments otherwise allowed, this featured instrument may be used throughout the entire performance. This featured instrument may be mic'd and amplified in any manner, including the use of effects, without restriction. All existing rules regarding equipment, amplification, and electronic usage shall apply to all other instruments and equipment not designated as the sole featured instrument.
    • Vote count: 16 yay, 2 nay
  • Update Percussion Instrumentation PASSED
    • The proposal would update wording of a current rule to clarify allowed percussion instruments.
    • Vote count: 18 yay, 0 nay

Rule Change Proposals that did not pass:

  • Increase Overall Size of Pit Area
    • To accommodate evolving show designs, a proposal has been submitted to expand the size of the pit area, stretching it from the 30-yard line to the opposite 30-yard line. This change would give corps more room to showcase their front ensemble setups and creative staging, provided venues can support the adjustment.
    • Vote count: 3 yay, 15 nay

Rule Change Proposals that were withdrawn:

  • Addition of Percussion 2
    • A proposal to reinstate a second percussion judge could allow for more comprehensive evaluations of percussion performance, including the front ensemble and the entire percussion section. This change would ensure the intricacy and cohesiveness of percussion arrangements receive the recognition they deserve.
  • All Field Performance 15 foot marker
    • In an effort to prioritize safety for performers and judges, this proposal would limit field judges to areas outside the 15-foot boundary line near the front sideline. This builds on existing guidelines, ensuring that judges can assess performances effectively without impeding choreography or props.
  • General Effect Adjudication Change
    • This proposal seeks to separate the General Effect caption into two distinct categories — General Effect Visual and General Effect Music — rather than the all-encompassing “overall effect” approach currently applied to the caption.