Rules & FAQ

What is the goal of SoundSport®?

A program of Drum Corps InternationalSoundSport® offers exciting performance opportunities for musical ensembles of all types, all ages, and all instruments, to encourage the creation of and support for community music-making everywhere.

SoundSport® provides a dynamic world class stage for performance ensembles to experience the joy of the marching performing arts.


What comprises a SoundSport® ensemble?

SoundSport® ensembles come from colleges, high schools, middle schools, independent groups, alumni drum corps, marching bands, pep bands, athletic bands, corporate-based groups, neighborhood groups, recreation center groups, and more. An ensemble can be created from a larger group, such as a drum line or guard from a marching band, an all-star band, a group made up of section leaders, seniors, or whoever you bring together for a performance.


What are the SoundSport® rules?

Click on any of the links below to view the 2019 SoundSport rulebooks (2022 rules are being updated).

2019 SoundSport Rulebook- Challenge Class

2019 SoundSport Rulebook – Medalist Class

2019 SoundSport Rulebook- Festival Class


What are the age and instrumentation restrictions?

SoundSport is all inclusive, all ages, and all instruments.


Can a SoundSport® ensemble include color guard members?

Background dancers, traditional color guard members, baton twirlers, gymnasts, acrobats and other similar performers may accompany SoundSport® ensembles. Contact SoundSport@dci.org with any questions to discuss your unique ideas.


What is the size of a SoundSport® ensemble?

Ensembles can consist of 5 or more members.


What is the length of a SoundSport® production?

Each program or show should be between 5 and 7 minutes in length.


What is the performance area for SoundSport®?

The performance area is 20 yards deep by 30 yards wide. The SoundSport performance area does not include yard lines, however, markers will be placed every five yards around the perimeter.


Is SoundSport® divided into divisions/classes?

There are six competitive classes for SoundSport®:

1. Cadet (13 years and under) with 5-50 members
2. Cadet (13 years and under) with 51 or more members
3. Youth (up to 21 years) with 5-50 members
4. Youth (up to 21 years) with 51 or more members
5. All-Age with 5-50 members
6. All-Age with 51 or more members

Age class is be determined by the oldest member of an ensemble. As SoundSport® grows, additional competitive classes may be added to best suit the performing ensembles.


When we participate in SoundSport®, where do we stay if overnight accommodations are needed?

One of the goals of SoundSport®  is to limit travel to day trips, eliminating the need for overnight lodging.

If an ensemble is traveling to a major SoundSport® event and needs overnight lodging, they obtain their own motel or hotel housing. Staying at schools is not an option for SoundSport® especially in and around Drum Corps International events.

 

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