Forward Performing Arts and the Madison Scouts are excited to announce a SoundSport performance ensemble for the 2017 season. SoundSport is a league of Drum Corps International (DCI) that takes the excitement and challenge of the drum corps activity and places it into a smaller performance footprint, has fewer restrictions, and simplified adjudication. SoundSport teams focus on performance and development in a fan-friendly environment.
“The SoundSport activity has seen remarkable success for DCI,” said Executive Director Chris Komnick. “We think it is an excellent place for our organization to develop a new marching arts ensemble in the State of Wisconsin.”
Dann Petersen will be director for the SoundSport team and it will be staffed with top-level music educators who also serve on the staff for the Madison Scouts Drum & Bugle Corps.
“Members of the Scouts SoundSport team will get an opportunity to experience many of the educational aspects of the drum corps,” stated Director Dann Petersen. “Our objective is to provide a positive learning environment for the marching arts, several opportunities to perform in front of family and friends in Wisconsin, a trip to the DCI World Championships, and a great overall member experience.”
The Scouts SoundSport team will focus on skills and performance development for members ages 15-20. It will be a co-ed ensemble that will develop a 7-minute show that will be produced in a time-efficient rehearsal process. Due to the rehearsal and performance schedule, it is expected that most members will come from the state of Wisconsin or nearby.
Registering and auditioning is simple, virtual, and has no cost. All skill levels will be considered. Rehearsals will begin on Saturday, April 22nd in central Wisconsin. The group will first perform at The Whitewater Classic on Saturday, June 24th with subsequent Wisconsin performances in Cedarburg, Wausau, and Madison. The SoundSport team will conclude its season by attending the DCI World Championships in Indianapolis from August 10-12, staying with the Madison Scouts, performing exhibitions, and competing at the SoundSport International Music & Food Festival. Student tuition and fees for the 2017 season will be $450.