SoundSport®, a rapidly growing series of worldwide competitive and exhibition music ensemble performance opportunities produced by U.S.-based Drum Corps International is pleased to announce SoundSport Marquise, France, the first officially-sanctioned SoundSport® event in France.

“We are thrilled to expand the SoundSport brand into France,” DCI Director of Business Development John DeNovi said. “This event will engage not just the active marching ensembles in the area, but will also provide new performance opportunities to ensembles that don’t currently have an outlet from which to showcase the remarkable talents of their performers.”

SoundSport Marquise, France will take place the evening of Saturday, July 11, in Marquise, a Northern seaside town near Dunkerque, France., in front of the town hall.

Endorsed by the French musical instruments manufacturer Winged and in conjunction with SoundSport and Drum Corps Europe, this event will offer French units the opportunity to experience SoundSport and Drumline Battle events. But the event is also open to other European units. While the city of Marquise is situated in the North of France, close to Calais and Boulogne sur Mer, it is also close to Belgium and The Netherlands.

“We think that it would be great for bands in France to meet other teams at events like this, as it will be an inspiration to the performers”, says event manager Cédric Paques. “It’s a challenge to break down the barriers that units may have for their own projects.

The event is free for visitors. Besides the competition, there will be showcases, exhibitions and fun entertainment. “A good way to appreciate the performances of the units and definitely a chance for the performers to be encouraged by a larger audience.” Information on the event can be found on Facebook, groups can register at www.wingedinstruments.com.