With the 2026 DCI season recently wrapped up and everyone full-steam ahead on the BOA and college marching band seasons, there's a lot that has happened in the marching space lately.
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Here are the top six Winter Guard International and Drum Corps International headlines that you may have missed over the last few weeks:
1. Mandarins are BACK for the 2027 DCI season
In conjunction with their home show (DCI Capital Classic) back on July 3rd, the Mandarins announced that the corps will, indeed, be back to the competitive field for competition throughout the 2027 DCI season.
In a post on the Mandarins Instagram page, here is what the ensemble had to say about their f2027 season:
"Mandarins Performing Arts Board of Directors has unanimously voted to begin the formal process of intending to return the Mandarins Drum Corps to the Drum Corps International field for the 2027 season.
While the organization’s return to competition is not yet guaranteed and remains pending approval from Drum Corps International, this board action marks an important and hopeful step forward for the future of the Mandarins Drum Corps.
Following the organization’s 2026 hiatus from DCI competition, Mandarins leadership has continued to focus on financial stability, organizational infrastructure, member experience, and long-term sustainability. The board’s vote reflects confidence in the progress made to date and authorizes the organization to move forward with the necessary planning, application, and review process required for a potential 2027 return."
View this post on Instagram
2. Fusion Winter Guard announces hiatus for the 2027 WGI season
Even world champs need a break sometimes. Following an electric (and gold-medal winning) season in 2026, Fusion Winter Guard recently announced its intentions to go on hiatus for the 2027 WGI season. Here's what the organization had to say in a series of Instagram posts regarding the news:
"Founded in 1990, Fusion Winter Guard has strived to be a place where performers could find opportunity, family, and a shared love of the performing arts.
Since the programs reinstatement for the 2017 season, the past ten seasons have been nothing short of amazing. What began as a new chapter for the program grew into something no one could have predicted - from Open Class Finalist, to a promotion to the WGI Independent World Class, to two-time WGI Independent World Class Champions. Through every milestone, the goal has remained the same: to create a home for our members and staff, filled with friendships, memories, and experiences that would last a lifetime.
After much thought and consideration, the Fusion Winter Guard administration has made the difficult decision to pause all organizational activities beginning with the 2027 competitive season.
Our hearts will always be with the members, staff, alumni, volunteers, families, and fans who have made Fusion what it is. Thank you for your continuous support and belief in this organization.
Thank you, and see you soon. 💜"
3. Obsidian Winds moves to Independent World for 2027 WGI season
Independent A silver medalists in 2025, Independent Open gold medalists in 2026, and now moving into the Independent World class for 2027! Based out of Nashville, Tennessee, Obsidian Winds has been making big waves in the short time they came onto the scene just a few years ago.
4. Santa Clara Vanguard Cadets are BACK after a multi-year hiatus
More good news out of California: the Santa Clara Vanguard Cadets are heading back to the competition field for the first time since the 2022 DCI season. Here's what Vanguard Performing Arts had to say about the announcement:
"Leading the return of the Vanguard Cadets will be Dr. Colby Vasquez, who currently serves as Assistant Corps Director for the Santa Clara Vanguard. In his new role as Corps Director, Dr. Vasquez will oversee the educational and artistic vision of the ensemble while helping shape an inspiring experience for its members...
The 2027 season will consist of a regional, West Coast tour, allowing the Vanguard Cadets to provide an exceptional educational experience while remaining accessible to students throughout California and the surrounding region. The ensemble will participate in a select regional performance schedule designed to maximize educational value, meaningful performance opportunities, and community engagement."
Those interested in auditioning for the Open Class corps can click here for more information.
6. Elevate Winds & Vestige Winter Guard both on hiatus for the 2027 WGI season
It was a heartbreaking double-whammy to see two more WGI ensembles announce a hiatus for the 2027 season: Elevate Winds, based out of Indianapolis, IN, and Vestige Winter Guard, based out of Orlando, FL. Here are what the two ensembles had to say about the extremely hard move: