THREE DAYS IN PASADENA
THREE DAYS OF PRIDE

And so, the 2007 season comes to a close; but the memories and the pride of this Old alumni war-horse will linger on for the rest of my days.

Approximately three months ago I met with George Hopkins in a Paramus Shopping Mall at Starbucks (where else?), to discuss Cadet Alumni activities. Shortly afterwards I received a communication from George asking if I could arrange for a representative group of Holy Name Alumni to attend Memorial Brass, reason unspecified. I contacted quite a few, but because of holiday weekend family commitments and short notice, I was only able to convince two of my fellow 1957 Cadets to accompany me; John Avella and Ken Shedosky. We literally hadn't seen each other in 40 plus years. Neither John nor Ken had seen a drum corps perform or been in touch with the Cadets during that entire period of time. We had no idea why we had been invited, but we knew why we were going. It was way past time to reconnect the past with the present.

We arrived in Allentown wearing our brand new Holy Name Cadet jackets, and from the first moment we arrived we were treated like visiting royalty. George, the Yea staff, the Cadets' instructional staff, parents, board members, and spectators present to attend the concert, all welcomed us warmly and with reverence. Then it happened. The 2007 Cadets began to emerge from the concert hall following their rehearsal, and they were all wearing "the shirt." On the front was the program logo for the season, "I Believe," and on the back was the words "For Holy Name Shall Always Be." I will never forget that moment for as long as I live. John, Ken, and I looked at each other and began to cry, and for the rest of the evening the tears flowed freely.

At just about the same time we spotted the Cadets, the Cadets spotted us, and we were mobbed. I have no idea if the Cadets had been informed that we would be attending, or if it was just spontaneous; but it didn't matter either way. Cadet Alumni representing 73 years of Cadet history were symbolically reconnecting with "our corps and our kids," and for John, Ken, and I, it was moving beyond description. Our love affair with our 2007 Cadets began at that moment. Later we took the seats reserved for us in the theater and sat in stunned silence as the curtain opened and The Cadets, wearing "the shirts" appeared, and proceeded to blow us away with the most awesome display of talent any of us had ever witnessed in our entire drum corps experience. But, the best was yet to come. Following other excellent groups participating in the program, The Cadets made a second appearance, this time in "the uniform." The three of us lost it completely. This time we just couldn't make the tears stop.. .and we didn't want to make them stop. Our corps was our corps again, and all was right with the world.

After intermission John, Ken, and I were invited out on the stage where we were introduced to the audience by George, and presented with a plaque for the 1957 Holy Name Cadets commemorating the 50th Anniversary of the 1957 American Legion National Championship, the last National Championship won under the Holy Name banner. This plaque will be on proud display at the Great-Gathering-of-the-Maroon in Atlantic City, September 12 thru 14. We had a surprise for George as well, and I think for once we caught him off-guard. We presented him with a Holy Name Cadet jacket and informed him that from that moment on we expected him to sing The Holy Name Hymn with all other Cadets, past and present. He might not have considered himself a Cadet, but after 25 years of service to our corps he is a Cadet, and it was time to join his voice with ours in the most beloved of all Cadet rituals. We left that night to drive home three very happy Cadet Alumni, and we proceeded to tell every other Alumnus w e were able to contact what we had seen, and what we had experienced. The rebonding of our corps had begun.

The three of us also traveled out to Allentown a second time for the Cadets' first dress-rehearsal performance of their "This I Believe" program. Once again we were blown away by the unbelievable talent of the 2007 Cadets. After the performance we went down to greet the Cadets at their food truck, and were once again mobbed. They had another surprise for us as well that was completely unexpected. Two of the young Cadets had "Holy Name Cadets" tattooed on their bodies. If you never marched Cadets you probably don't realize what an impact that had on us. The three of us were Cadets top to bottom, but we never reached the point of displaying our corps pride so indelibly. It was at that moment that we realized that the bond between our past and their present was now unbreakable. We became born-again Cadets in a dark parking lot outside the walls of J. Birney Crum Stadium, and we knew that it was our mission to let all Cadet Alumni know that the history, traditions, and legacy they had built, were alive and well.

Not too long afterwards many Cadet Alumni gathered for a reunion at Giants' Stadium for the Cadets' home show. All the events associated with that reunion were packed, and all divisions between segments of the corps had disappeared. No one grouped themselves or isolated themselves by banner. We were still part of the Holy Name Cadets or the Garfield Cadets or the Cadets of Bergen County or The Cadets; but now that was a sub-title. We were all Cadets, and we were all Holy Name. We were one corps, and we began to realize that our history was not just our past, but our present and future as well. We realized that the modern-era Cadets are living history, and that through them the best is yet to come. At the end of the pre-contest reception alumni from all eras, and a representative group of Cadets, sang the Holy Name Song in unison. There wasn't a dry eye in the house. The Chairman of the YEA Board perhaps said it best at George's Testimonial the following day celebrating 25 years as Director of The Cadets. Mr. Silverstein closed his remarks with this statement: "Our job is to ensure that The Cadets will be around forever, and that Holy Name shall always be..."

We are part of a competitive activity. While competition may not be the primary component of the Cadet Experience; it is a valuable tool for teaching and learning a lot of life lessons. This year the DCI Championship Competitions were held in Pasadena, California. I was present for those competitions. The atmosphere was, to put in mildly, extremely hostile. Somewhere along the line a growing number of members of the drum corps community have lost their civility and self-pride, and become rude, obnoxious, and self-focused. Sadly, in Pasadena that group prevailed, and swept along with them a large number of people who in retrospect I would be willing to bet are now dismayed at their own behavior, and ashamed that they were a part of such a denigrating spectacle. I have been around drum corps for 57 years, and during that entire time I have never seen anything remotely similar occur. The most disturbing part to me was that many of the people swept along in the mob-like atmosphere that prevailed in the stands were wearing corps jackets, tee shirts, and other items advertising their allegiance. They did not seem cognizant of the fact that if they were members of any of the corps competing and they acted in the manner in which they were acting, they would probably have been thrown out of their corps.

For myself, I have never been prouder to be a Cadet or to display my colors than I was in Pasadena. The 2007 Cadets were magnificent; in their talent, in their performance abilities, in their behavior, and in their ability to stand tall as Cadets under the hailstorm of abuse they encountered. Yes, I suspect they did learn some valuable lessons in Pasadena. I suspect that you will never see behavior from them that was exhibited towards them. One of the primary lessons of the Cadet experience is the importance of personal accountability. How unfortunate that those booing and heckling in the stands never learned that lesson.

At the quarterfinals we had our first drum major, John Baumfalk, now 89 years Old, viewing The Cadets for the first time in 57 years. He was a guest of DCI in the press box. Interviewers and photographers from local publications, radio stations, drum corps publications, activity and corps websites, etc., were lined up to get his story on tape and on film. I don't think he heard much of what occurred. He was too busy displaying the grace and character of a man who planted the seeds for the corps he had come to see...The Cadets. If he did hear the boos or observe the behavior of the audience, I suspect he would have too much courtesy to comment on it to his hosts.

Did the boos affect The Cadets' performance? Absolutely! Who could have been prepared for anything even close to what they encountered. Did George do the right thing by pulling them off the field to permit the field to be relined? Absolutely! The Cavaliers, performing just before the Cadets, experienced several members falling, and their Director not only notified George of the condition of the field, but was solidly in support of George's decision. The irony is that the Cavaliers were the only corps that would have benefitted from a penalty assessed against the Cadets, but Mr. Fiedler, like George, chose to do the right thing rather than the advantageous thing. It amazes me how so many people both in the stands and in the theaters characterized what occurred according to their own distorted prejudices and/or invalid assumptions. On Thursday night in the Rose Bowl the audience became a mob, and our long-held belief that drum corps people were something special was tarnished forever.

At the semi-finals on Friday the Cadets came back with a vengeance. It was the finest drum corps performance I have ever witnessed. They placed second by one half a tenth. Should they have won? That's a matter of personal perspective. The judges had a near-impossible job, and I think for the most part they performed it well. Each judge has a single segment to evaluate, and sometimes the numbers don't work to your advantage. The Blue Devils had a fine corps, and whichever way the numbers fell, either corps could have emerged on top. The Cadets entered the field to be greeted by a hostile audience. They left the field with the sound of a standing ovation ringing in their ears. They turned the mob back into an audience again, with only isolated idiots playing out their self-assigned roles. All season people on the drum corps forums blasted the Cadets' program concept, the narration, the tonality of the Cadets doing the narration, and everything in between. Most of them had never even seen the Cadets perform live, but they still felt qualified to pass judgement. In Pasadena there was a whole new element. People with signs and people yelling out comments that were either insulting, meant to disrupt, or five second routines by wanna-be stand-up comics. I sat next to one who thought he was so amusing and witty that his running commentary on the Cadets should be shared with the world. I hope he has a day job.

On Saturday morning I had the very great honor and privilege to attend The Cadets traditional Finals-Day breakfast. There was a huge turnout of alumni, parents, friends, and supporters. Most important of all was the long-anticipated opportunity for John Baumfalk, our revered first Drum Major and horn instructor, to meet the 2007 Cadets. These young people showered John with love and attention and reverence. They made me very, very proud. They made John very, very happy. Afterwards we got to witness one of the famous "Hop Meetings" with his Cadets. The young men and women of the corps were seated on the field, with the adult attendees standing facing them. George gave a short explanation of how he attempts to relate the Cadet experience to imminent life experiences, and he thanked the young Cadets present for the privilege of leading them, and thanked their parents for entrusting the most precious people in their lives to his care. Following that he opened up the discussion for anyo ne to speak. I am told this is a regular component of his regular meetings with The Cadets throughout each season. Several Cadets stood to thank him for the experience of being a Cadet, to thank their parents and/or sponsors for making it possible, to thank their instructors for the incomparable learning experience, to tell the alumni present how much their support meant to them this season, and to tell their fellow Cadets how much they loved them. The discussion was then opened to the guests present. Several parents echoed their sons or daughters by thanking George for what he had done for "their" Cadet. Someone else who seemed to be just a fan thanked the Cadets for the joy they brought into his life by their performances and by his observations of how they conducted themselves. Finally a Catholic Priest, Rev. Fr. Jim Reilly, asked to speak. He informed everyone present that he had been following the Cadets as a fan since 1947. He spoke from the heart about his feelings for the C adets, and most particularly for the 2007 Cadets. He made us laugh, he made us cry, and he made us all very, very proud. His final words to the group of Cadets sitting on the ground sharing their final moments together with those of us gathered in tribute to them was, "and you truly are Athletes of God." Some people this summer have criticized and ridiculed that phrase. I will never understand why! As I watched the young Cadets, and Troopers, and Pioneer, and Scouts, and Bluecoats, and Crown, and members of every other corps enter the stadium gates for each of the three nights of competition, I was filled with admiration and conviction that each and every one of them was in fact truly an "Athlete of God." My opinion of those ridiculing or booing any single one of them is far less lofty.

Saturday was the culmination of my three days of pride in "Our" Cadets. I can't begin to imagine what was in the mind of each Cadet proudly entering the field wearing the maroon and gold. They performed magnificently. They stood tall in retreat formation and never wavered. They left the field with dignity and pride. Now they are dispersed once again; to states near and far, to Countries most of us have never visited. They have begun their lifelong Cadet journey. I can tell you what's in my mind now. I think their legacy will live on in Cadet history forever. I believe they have honored our corps beyond measure. I believe that the words "I Believe" are part of a new Cadet creed. Thank you 2007 Cadets. You have made history! We now have a united corps that will work together, as never before, "to ensure that the Cadets will be around forever, and Holy Name shall always be..."

Dave Shaw, 1950-58

Yes Ryan Tinker, and Gunter Griffin, and all of the magnificent 2007 Cadets;
by joining The Cadets you "chose to be great," and you have achieved your goal.

2007 COMPETITION SCHEDULE

June 16 - Annapolis: 1-Cavaliers, 2-BlueCoats, 3-Cadets
June 17 - Pittsburgh: 1-Cavaliers, 2-Cadets, 3-BlueCoats
June 19 - Fairfield: 1-Cadets, 2-BlueCoats
June 21 - Benson, NC 1-Cadets, 2-Carolina Crown
June 22 - Columbia, SC 1-Cadets,  2-Carolina Crown
June 23 - Alpharetta/Milton, GA 1-Cadets , 2-Carolina Crown
June 25 - Russellville, GA   1. Cadets, 2. Carolina Crown
June 26 - Lexington, KY   1. Cadets,  2. Phantom Regiment
June 29 - Westminster MD   1. Cadets,  2. Phantom Regiment
June 30 - East Rutherford, NJ   1. Cadets,  2. Phantom Regiment
July  2 - Ft. Edwards, NY   1. Cadets,  2. Carolina Crown
July  3 - Bristol, RI   1. Cadets,  2. Carolina Crown
July  4 - Beverly, MA   rained out
July  6 - Lawrence, MA  1. Cadets, 2. Phantom Regiment, 3. Carolina Crown
July  7 - Allentown, PA 1. Cadets, 2. Phantom Regiment, 3. Santa Clara 
Vanguard, 4. Carolina Crown
July  9 - DCI Hershey, PA   1. Blue Devils,  2. Cadets,  
3. Carolina Crown
July 11 - Louisville, KY   1. Cadets, 2. Cavaliers, 3. Phantom Regiment
July 13 - DCI Murfreesboro, TN   1. Blue Devils  2. Cadets  3. Cavaliers  
4. Phantom Regiment 5. Bluecoats  6. Santa Clara Vanguard  
7. Carolina Crown  8. Blue Knights
July 14 - Atlanta, GA - DCI Southeastern Regional   1. Blue Devils,  2. Cadets,  
3. Cavaliers, 4. Phantom Regiment,  5. Bluecoats,  6. Carolina Crown,  
7. Santa Clara Vanguard
July 15 - Charlotte, NC   1. Cadets,  2. Santa Clara Vanguard,  3. Carolina Crown
July 17 - Memphis, TN   1. Cadets,  2. Carolina Crown
July 18 - Siloam Springs, AK   1. Cadets,  2. Blue Knights
July 19 - Dallas, TX   1. Blue Devils,  2. Cadets,  3. Phantom Regiment,  
4. Carolina Crown
July 21 - DCI Southwestern Regional- San Antonio, TX  1. Blue Devils,  2. Cavaliers,  
3. Cadets,  4. Blue Coats, 5. Carolina Crown, 6. Phantom Regiment
July 23 - Enid, OK   1. Cadets,  2. Phantom Regiment
July 24 - Witchita, KS   1. Cadets,  2. Santa Clara Vanguard
July 25 - Lincoln, NE  1. Cadets,  2. Phantom Regiment,  3. Santa Clara Vanguard
July 28 - Denver, CO   1. Cadets,  2. Blue Coats,  3. Carolina Crown,  
4. Santa Clara Vanguard
July 30 - Ogden, UT  1. Cadets,  2. Blue Coats,  3. Santa Clara Vanguard
July 31 - Boise, ID   1. Cadets,  2. Bluecoats,  3. Santa Clara Vanguard

Thunder in Boise August 2 - Portland, OR August 4 - Stanford, CA
DCI West Championship August 5 - Clovis, CA
Mid Cal Tour of Champions August 9 - Pasadena, CA
DCI World Championships

Detailed information on these shows is available on http://www.dci.org/
By selecting "schedule" you can access contest site information, contact
information, ticket information, corps participating, etc.

You may also access scores of contests (usually available approximately one half
hour after the completion of the contest) by selecting "scores" at the same
site.

These reviews from assumed-unaffiliated observers are reprinted from DCP Forums


Performance Reviews - July 30 - August 5

July 30  - Ogden, UT
written by: sexyguardcap

Ogden was my last show before I start following My Blue Devil to Pasadena. The
Cadets guard IS Back! Gone are the individual mistakes that kept us and other
guards ahead of them. The Cadets guard content. is as good if not better than
most top guards. Plus they perform with a pasion you rarely see. Example:
There's this part in Blue shades were this young lady catches this 30 to 40 yard
rifle exchange, well, the rifle is over thrown, the girl takes several steps off
her original spot catches the rifle improvises a little dance ( because the
rifle was overthrown and didn't allow her to finish the movement phrase) then
continues. I've seen this section performed about seven times live and hundreds
of times in practice. The Cadets last weak link other than narration tongue.gif
is gone.

July 30 - Ogden UT
written by tuonela

They were amazingly clean and powerful. First corps of the night to drown out
the annoying talking behind me. There was one part that I wasn't sure if it was 
added recently... One of the narrators said something like "and now, let's do 
something without the voices" something to that effect. It definitely got a few 
people in the crowd on their feet. The guard did very well with the trick flags. 
Very effectively used.



Performance Reviews - July 23 - July 29


July 28 - Denver, CO
written by sexyguardcap

I just got back from the show. The biggest suprise for me was Cadets guard 
showed up tonight. They were great! Santa Clara was my favorite guard up til 
this point, but Cadets! Whew! Big jump from San Antonio.





These comments were posted on Drum Corps Planet by viewers watching and 
reacting to what they were seeing on the DCI Southwestern Webcast. Most 
of the quotes are verbatim as they appeared on DCP. A diligent attempt 
was made NOT to take any comments out of context.



Caution:
Remember as you read these comments that they were being written as "reaction"
rather than "thought-out" observations; and in some instances posters'
observations were sometimes complimentary and sometimes abrasive from one page
to another. Individual personalities are revealed through these comments
probably more than the posters realize, and it would also appear that
some of the posters were possibly making comments more intended to be
inflammatory rather than insightful.



These comments are not passed along to our readers to embarass anyone, or to
attempt to influence viewpoints. We assume that any person posting their
thoughts in a public forum feels they have something worth saying, and welcomes
wider distribution of that viewpoint.



No attempt whatsoever has been made to strike a balance between positive
comments on the Cadets' program and performance, and negative comments which are
also presented. We decided not to include comments that offered comparisons to
other corps' programs and performances because we respect our competitors, and
feel that it is demeaning and reprehensible to attempt to promote your own corps by
denigrating others.



We hope you find these varied observations by DCP posters in some way educational.



written by flaminvert122
I honestly think Cadets should be winning (even with all the talking).



written by churchbrass
 I saw the Murfreesboro show in person and was impressed by The Cadets and found
the narration pleasantly fitting in, unlike the horror stories I had read prior.



written by cudakite
The cadets marching ability is amazing and it's entirely possible they may win
the championship from shear talent.



written by PhantomCrown
 I don't care what they do. As long as the horn line keeps playing like they
have been, they can talk all they want.



written by Elmo Blatch
I really enjoy the show. Interesting changes. I wish I could see it again.



written by NeuralNovice
Cadets - This I Believe: Amazingly talented corps. Blue Shades... awesome! Have
the pit do the narration so the voices won't sound so muffled.



written by PRRocks
I don't know if Cadets will be the season champs, but I can tell you that they
won't be a flop. Win or lose, narration or no narration, they've already made
their mark on the 2007 season. Great corps.



written by fourouttheforty
I was going to say something nasty about people who would even think about
booing a corps' performance, but to stay on topic, the Cadets are definitely
still my front runner for the championship.



written by slapnut
I pick the Cadets as the winner this year even though I hate their narration.



ritten by oneanddone06
I actually do like that show. The hornline is really good. Pretty awesome live
last weekend in Atlanta.



written by 27Socal
Cadets are marching extremely well. If they are this clean 3 weeks before
finals, I can see this show winning.



written by jimwolf359
For me, without the narration that show is the best one on the field this
season. HANDS DOWN . That might the most talented Corps the Cadets ever fielded
and the music is outstanding.
When you can hear it that is



written by Tone Quality Matters
Cadets show, regardless of how much I dislike or anyone dislikes the narration,
Cadets could win if they get the guard clean.
This I believe.



written by jwscv87
Cadets were outstanding! I loved the entire package - including the narration.
Other than Xmen last year that is the first use of narration I liked. The
soprano solo in Blue Shades was off the charts. Wow!



written by musicman1084
I'm thinking the Cadets took this one tonight.



written by tupid06
I also think the Cadets won tonight...and I think they won brass too.



written by 27Socal
Looks like this is the cadets year. Usually it seems that if they had an extra
week at the end of the season to clean, they'd win. They are already there this
year. About 2 or 3 weeks ahead of schedule. What happened?



written by Gil-galad
I'm holding back curse words here. WTF. Cadets should have won tonight.



written by dooser11
I believe, the cadets got screwed



written by bartyout
UOTE(dooser11 @ Jul 21 2007, 11:03 PM)
I believe, the cadets got screwed
I hate to admit it because there is so much I don't like about the show - but I
agree.
I think they had the best performance tonight.



written by tupid06
Even though I am not a fan of the Cadets this year I thought they should have
taken it easily. Anyone else sense a conspiracy against the Cadets winning?



written by Kekkles
 cadets are in third with the cleanest and most energized show?



...........................................................................
and the detractors offer their constructive criticism:
..........................................................................
written by corps e feldman
This I Believe....Time for a beer!!!
QUOTE(mohanico @ Jul 21 2007, 08:04 PM)
the only good cadet, is a mute cadet
This I BELIEVE!!!



written by cat69
did u here a fan "I DON'T BELIEVE YOU YET" lol
yep time to put the kettle on! toilet break!



written by wheelerland
I was lonely in high school too. Anyone want to hear my story? Thought not......



written by tupid 06
I get sick during this part...narration... *barf*



written by musicman1084
"Everytime I play my trumpet something amazing happens..."
...well then shut the #### up and play your god #### trumpet!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!



written by mohanico
the only good cadet, is a mute cadet.



written by PeeWee
Oh heck no! They don't play enough to win



written by ohwiseone
i really hope the cadets didn't win if they did Then i will be ######





Performance Reviews - July 16 - July 22


July 21 - DCI Southeastern - San Antonio, TX
written by TexasPRfan


The Cadets are improving rapidly. Their ensemble sound was so much better 
in San Antonio than in Dallas. Most of the edginess and crass sounds I heard 
from the horn line on Thursday were gone Saturday. This is a terrific corps, 
with great music, great drill and amazing talent. I honestly think if the 
just axed 90% of the inane, amatuer, middle-school level naration, they 
could win. I know Cadets have their supporters in this regard, but there were 
near-universal comments around my seats about how much folks would enjoy 
their show if they would just shut up.


July 21 - DCI Southeastern - San Antonio, TX
writtenbywadep66


Cadets: I love the cadets. Support them. Great show. They play the crap out of
it. They march the crap out of it. I couldn't help but be distracted by the
guard. They are not on caliber with the rest of the corps and the scores are
where they should be on this. I knew what the narration said from seeing the
videos and reading it quoted 10 E^6 times on here. Couldn't make out more than
25% of it due to the acoustics. If it isn't audible, it isn't effective. They
can win with this show if they can get it together.

Thoughts: Cadets or BD will win the championship. Cavies 3rd. BC 4. I think 
this is the most exciting season competition wise in years.

If one looks at the extended quote taken from the Martha Graham 
essay that originally aired on NPR entitled "An Athlete of God"
http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=5065006
comments - not date specific
written by Tony L.


It appears that the Cadets are getting a bit too much criticism. I think the
Cadets' show is not at all about hubris; instead, I think it celebrates the
proceess that ALL corps go through to achieve what we (the fans) have the
privilege to witness at contests every night. In fact, I think all drum corps
performers (just like dancers) are truely an "athlete of God". They practice,
practice and practice, in order to put a performance out there for the world to
enjoy, consider and judge. Sure it falls flat some times, but it is always
sublime, regardless of the overall quality.

I don't care which drum corps show one talks about, all of the corps put out
fantstic shows that demonstrate why each and every member is truly "An Athlete
of God." And for celebrating that (albeit with Martha Graham'a slightly 
hyperbolic quote), I say "Thank you" to the Cadets. We celebrate all of the 
performances by all of the corps! I just wish that as we go into San Antonio 
that we could all enjoy what we have -- young adults out there giving everything 
they have for their corps, their art, and us, the fans.

Let's all enjoy the "Athletes of God" regardless of what uniform they happen to
wear!


Cadet Comments - not date specific
written by Craig L.


Well I for one am glad that The Cadets are the corps they are. They keep things
interesting just by the amount that they try to change the status quo. Some of
it works; some does not. But it gives us something to look forward to, both on
the field and on these forums. We may look forward to loving the performance or
may look forward to seeing...and hating...the outrageous show design, but we
still look forward to it. Would anybody be happy if The Cadets skipped San
Antonio and we couldn't find out if they could deservingly win/lose (you pick
based on your bias).

The Cadets are good for the activity. The results will be judged by time. Things
are always changing. Where are the props this year? Relax. Voice your love or
dislike for a show, but relax. I saw The Cadets 2005 in Orlando at the beginning
of the season and it was a real mess, hated the show. Then I saw it in
Murfreesboro and, even though I did not like the show design, I realized that
the corps had now embraced the show and that it was likely going to be a
deserving winner. 2006 was a mistake by the design team where they tried too
hard to be different. It showed, and allowed much justified criticism. This year
is somewhere between the two shows. The concept is pushing what has been done,
but (in my opinion) the very badly written narration is not having the effect
that it could.

Change is good, it is bad, it is painful, it is stretching, and it is necessary.
So I am happy that George Hopkins is involved in the activity, just as much as I
for one often wish he would just shut up when he gets too far out there. But
both parts come with the package. Its not good and evil, it just drum corps in
the real world.


not date specific
written by abercrombiedevon


I saw this online earlier. It brought one corps to mind. Does this remind anyone
else of the Cadets?

Here’s to the crazy ones. The misfits. The rebels. The troublemakers. The round
pegs in the square holes. The ones who see things differently. They’re not fond
of rules. And they have no respect for the status quo. You can praise them,
disagree with them, quote them, disbelieve them, glorify or vilify them. About
the only thing you can’t do is ignore them. Because they change things. They
invent. They imagine. They heal. They explore. They create. They inspire. They
push the human race forward. Maybe they have to be crazy. How else can you stare
at an empty canvas and see a work of art? Or sit in silence and hear a song
that’s never been written? Or gaze at a red planet and see a laboratory on
wheels? We make tools for these kinds of people. While some see them as the
crazy ones, we see genius. Because the people who are crazy enough to think they
can change the world, are the ones who do.


July 19 - Dallas, TX
written by DallasManUFan


The Cadets - Where does one start? How about the beginning? I loved this 
freakin' show. I went in with much trepidation, but I have to tell you...I 
think all the talk about the narration is blown WAY out of proportion. 
Unless they pared it down a great deal since the beginining of the season 
I think the narration might be what makes this show great. It's a tremendous 
concept that is so well played, so well marched and so well put together that 
it just flys by. I think without the narration, this show would come off as 
some kind of garbled mess. Loved it, loved it, loved it. Here's a bold 
prediction that will probably come back to bite me in the butt, but what 
the hell: I think, in time, that the 2007 Cadets show will be looked back at 
kinda like the 1993 Star show. Not well recieved at the time due to some "new" 
concepts and ideas but will more appreciated as the entire activity evolves.


Performance Reviews - July 9 - July 15


July 15 - Charlotte, NC
written by NCSU


-Cadets -- Narration has changed a ton since Benson, it fits much better now 
in terms of integration and flow with the musical/visual program. I'm iffy on 
the new silks, the 'clip art' looking pictures of people joining hands and all 
that. It may have to grow on me (or maybe never will). To me the guard seemed 
weakest in the first third of the show, they're definitely working hard, but 
that isn't quite leading to upper-tier execution yet. Brass knocked my socks 
off as usual. Voice guy in the closer sounds MUCH better than in Benson, though 
I can't ignore that my sister chuckled when he first talked about being 
'different'. I was secretly hoping the new/extended ending would be there.  The 
ending of Blue Shades, I'm not quite sure about that yet, it's a bit abrupt. 
Narration was hard to hear in spots, I was towards the 20 yard line. Probably 
the biggest reactions of the night it felt like.

July 15 - Charlotte, NC
written by lowbrasswhole

I would way the best responses of the night would be the Cadets, especially the
ending, and the first big impact for Cown. The later got a great response.

Since this was the only show I could attend, I just wanted to soak it all in.
Cadets are awesome. It is a BOA show, but on steriods. It is so much more and it
is very well done. The innovation seems to be pushing the speed up, and jamming
big moments all over the place. It has a good flow, and the narration isnt bad
at all. They are on another level from CC and SCV.

July 14 - Atlanta, GA - DCI Regional
written by xmenjeffb


Cadets--WOW !!! what a drill !! what a hornline !! what a percusssion section !!!
-- that said. I am not negative about voice overs or narration. But i did feel 
that the rehearsal section goes on too long with too much dialogue. But is clear 
to me why they are in the hunt to win.They are that good !!!!!!!!

July 14 - Atlanta, GA - DCI Regional
written by DCM


These are my thoughts of the web cast.

Cadets.....well as much as i hated the narration it's not overly bad.....i am 
guessing that this is the show that will win. The corps has a hot show and the 
only thing that interferes is some of the talking...but in the end I think 
Cadets will pull off a championship ....they move more than anyone else . 
My vote for a champion this year.

July 14 - DCI Regional - Atlanta, GA

written by mellofone07


The Cadets: Okay, here we go...first off, let me explain my views on 
narration: I'm generally against it. However, if it works (like Bluecoats), 
then use it. As for the Cadets' narration, it works...but only in some places. 
There were some points in the show where I felt it was unnecessary, and 
covered up an extremely good hornline and percussion section. Oh, and 
speaking of which...these guys rock. I think they can absolutely take 
the championship in August. I may have my anti-narration stance, but the 
Cadets can blast like nobody's business. This is truly an excellent corps, 
narration or not.

So, with these reviews in mind, let me show you how I had these corps placed
before the scores were announced:

7. Bluecoats
6. Blue Devils
5. Santa Clara Vanguard
4. Carolina Crown
3. Phantom Regiment
2. The Cavaliers
1. The Cadets

July 14 - DCI Regional - Atlanta, GA
written by iceman


Cadets: They wanted it more than everyone tonight, and I left thinking they had 
the win. The show has a lot of intensity and emotion, and the performers are 
buying into it every step of the way. Loudest hornline of the night, and 
probably the cleanest guard. If I were a betting man, I see them taking the 
title this year. However, this show honestly isn't my cup of tea. I like parts 
of it a lot, but the sappy parts about the kid not fitting in, and a few of the 
other quotes seemed slightly contrived to me. Overall I think the vocals and the 
theme leave a lot to be desired, but the show, and the music, are designed around 
them. It somewhat reminds me of the 2000 production. Some will love this show in 
Pasadena, and some will hate it, but everyone will probably agree they are 
performing as an ENSEMBLE near the top of the 5th box. I think this was the crowd 
favorite from where I was sitting??? Like I said, this was a very tame crowd, and 
most everyone left before the scores and encore!

July 13 - Murfreesboro, TN
written by bugleboy63

The Cadets – "This I Believe. Truth, Value and the Personal Experience Called
Drum Corps"

‘This I Believe' I believe in The Cadets. I have for the past 27
years and this is no exception.

Hornline is fantastic – overwhelming (in a good way) at times. Drumline was
rockin' tonight.

Guard much improved from three weeks ago, but still lots to do. Addition of the
new silks is very effective. Easily, the Best GE of the evening and best overall
crowd reaction of the evening.

I've seen the show twice in person and know what to expect from the narration –
so no surprises here. Didn't really notice much adjustments during their closer,
so don't know if they included the adjustments in last night's performance.

Overall Reaction to the Cadets: no walk outs, etc. etc. In our section, 1RR,
there were obviously a few who could not get beyond the narration of the Cadets
show. Many of the folks sat on their hands at the end of the performance. What
was sad for me was to see at times these same folks were paying no attention to
the performance and just laughing among themselves – at times, distracting to
others.

After the Cadets finished, I was hot. My older Sister looked at me and said the
following: "You're taking this way too serious," "You know that some people will
never accept change and that's life." BAM! It finally hit me – there are Devoted
Drum Corps fans just like me who love the activity, but they will never be able
to accept or enjoy a production like the 2007 Cadets show. And with that, it was
like a switch. And you know what, I'm fine with that -- now that's not to say
that if someone is using venom during criticism, I won't push back and speak up,
but it's time to get back to just enjoying Drum Corps – one of my Summer's Joys!

July 13 - Murfreesboro, TN
written by Nero14

First of all- I need to issue a formal apology:

“Cadets and George Hopkins:

I’m really sorry. I’ve judged you this year before I gave you a chance… your
show is amazing and I just want to thank you for shutting me up- keep kicking
butt- you guys deserve to be kicking butt like you clearly are (I had Cadets
first by half a point…). Thank you for showing me that narration can be pretty
cool… I doubted you and I’m sorry- thanks for proving me wrong- ALSO thank you
SO MUCH for the most amazing encore performance I’ve ever been to- ever. Period.
That was amazing… thank you for showing my new friend how amazing drum corps can
be when you really let it all hang out… thank you!”

If I can be completely honest here… I HATED narration when it first came out…
but 2007 will forever be known as the year that I was glad George passed
amplification… (I can’t BELIEVE I’m saying that.. really).

Cadets:
These guys were really shooting fire out there- great demand, power… someone 
said they haven’t changed much in the last few weeks- but I saw them in 
Annapolis, the first show- and I must say- the narration is COMPLETELY 
different than the beginning of the season… completely different. The dude 
doesn’t do the intro like he used to… its funny because I actually counted 3 
times when they said the phrase “we’re all different religions but ____” not 
because that matters but I just thought it was funny they said the word 
“religion” 3 times in a show… I guess they read my mind because that was all 
totally out-I noticed that the performers seem to be understandably less 
winded when they are talking… I really don't like the LAST guy who talks:
“in high school, I noticed that there was something DIFFERENT about me… I 
loved music… I couldn’t wait to play my trumpet… I think I made the right 
decision…” you know that guy? I don't really like his style… don't know how 
to critique someone’s vocal approach to some dialog, but I liked the other 
talking better… he just seemed kind of… smug? Is that fair? I dunno… everyone 
kind of laughed when he said the part about how he was “different”… I don't 
think that’s the effect they were going for but it is kind of funny when you 
think about it…

I had them in 1st… I mean- what these guys can do with a 64 member brass line 
is INCREDIBLE- you can really just feel the passion in their performance- its 
just great…

The whole thing kind of feels like the middle part of the 2000 show, after the 
ballad- you know, when all the parts are trading off doing cool stuff… if I had 
a criticism, it would be that I wish the show flowed a little better- I 
understand that its going to be choppy with the narration… but if they could 
smooth it out a little, I’d be sold.

and like i said before- the encore was AMAZING-the cadets came down front and played:

Rocky Point
That cool part from the 2005 show... kinda towards the end of the opener... starts 
with an O? i dunno....
Hymn Song (their 93 ballad- aka "It is Well With my Soul")
Yesterday- John Lennon
Shenandoah
Back to the Future

i loved every second of it- our seats were perfect for this- they came down as 
close as they could get and just rocked our faces off- it was borderline hearing 
damage loud... i just had a big old grin on my face the entire time- you've got 
to admit- even if you dont like the cadets- that they know how to entertain- this 
show has seen the cavies do encores for the last several years- and i just had to 
tell everyone around me: "wait! don't leave yet- this is going to be really good! 
trust me!" and i think they were glad they stayed... my Dad had only seen cavies 
encores- and i had to just come clean with him: "Dad- i know the cavies are 
amazing- but this encore is going to blow you away"- and he had tears in his eyes 
all the way through... and i've never seen my dad cry before... and i'm 25... 
thats drum corps for you, huh?

Perceived Crowd Favorites:

1 Cadets
2 Crown
3 Phantom
4 BD
5 Bluecoats
6 Cavies
7 SCV
8 BK

Brass Volume:
1 Cadets (number 1 with a bullet)
2 Phantom
3-4-5 tie SCV/Crown/ BD
6-7-tie Cavies/Bluecoats
8 BK

MY predicted placements

1 Cadets
2 BD
3 Cavies
4 Phantom
5 Bluecoats
6-7 Crown/SCV tie
8 BK


Program and philosphy overview
July 11 - Louisville, KY
written by Richard

To me, Hopkins created this show concept to make drum corps more marketable to 
the marching band community. I recently read an old interview (1999) in which 
George speaks to the fact that there are 2 million kids in marching bands and 
only 6000 in drum corps and his primary focus is to make the activity more 
appealing to those 2 million. You can really see that this is his modus 
operandi by the rule changes he's proposed in the past. Now, I completely 
agree with his thinking; the future of the activity depends on the interest of 
those 2 million band kids. Rather than make this a dissertation of Hopkins 
vision for drum corps, I'll try to stick to my original point.

It seems to me that this show is really designed to hit home with all those 
band kids out there. First of all, its a total ######## show, which is always 
a good way to create a drum corps fan. But in regards to narration, they talk 
about rehearsing segments repeatedly and basics block and other things band 
kids can easily relate to. Then the closing segment seems to be an attempt to 
reach all the kids out there that are just like the narrator, and tries to 
explain to them that they can really achieve something amazing. In fact, I 
think that's the overriding theme that George Hopkins is trying to get 
across to these band kids: This activity is incredible and YOU can do it!

Will it work? Who knows. From my dealings teaching a pretty competitive high 
school band, there is no reaching at least 50% of them.

I also believe that having a 'band kid' target audience is why so many drum 
corps enthusiasts can't stand this show. The narration past the opening feels 
so corny and not representative of drum corps that it does not appeal to many 
DCI fans. I would be interested to find out how many DCI fans who are not 
Cadet alums or big Cadet fans have heard the narration and said "wow, that is 
great. I really enjoy this." I'd wager not many.

This is also why I don't feel like this increased narration is killing the 
activity. I would be astounded if you saw any shows like this out of the 
Cavaliers, SCV or Phantom Regiment in the next 20 years. Its not something 
like Bb horns or 135 members where you need them to be competitive, its just 
an available option that I don't see as being too appealing to most corps 
over the long haul.

In short, I see this whole show (and most things Hopkins does) as an attempt 
to bring more kids to the activity, which is not a bad thing by any stretch of 
the imagination.

July 11 - Louisville, KY
written by Tez

The Cadets - 86.60 - Yikes!!!!! I was expecting them to be good but Holy Cow!!!
At this point I have a rough time seeing how anyone else can win the
championship... not that they can't, it will just take an absolutely phenomenal
performance to beat this by finals. Where do I begin. Well, before the show
started they had a few minutes delay in getting the mics working. I was really
proud of the Louisville audience while they worked this out. I mean, no one
yelled out anything at all. Everyone just sat in complete silence for about two
minutes. It felt like there was great anticipation building and I actually got a
little nervous, but then they figured out the problem and the show went on.
About the narration: They have in fact changed much of it since I last heard it.
Much more of the content of what is being said actually relates to what is going
on on the field now. I think most will agree this is an improvement. Also, it
doesn't seem to take itself as seriously as it first did, there's more humor...
also much better. Now, any of you can go back and search
for posts I have made regarding narration in the past and find that I am pretty
strongly against it.....but.... I actually found myself enjoying this. I was
very impressed with the sound quality of the voices and the voices themselves.
You could tell that they spent time working on enunciating each word better. The
kid who does the final segment did like 1000 times better than he did in the
Annapolis show. I really did not like this part when I first heard it, but after
tonight, I thought it worked really well. There was one part where the mic did
go out. After the girl says: "Martha Graham said,....." Then it cut out and we
got to hear the whole beginning of Blue Shades without narration. It wasn't too
big of a technical problem, but they really, really need to make sure this
doesn't happen anywhere close to finals week... boy that would be a disaster.
Believe me, I am really surprised when I say that none
of the narration bothered me and did not distract in any way from the show.
If anyone has any questions as to what was changed or anything at all please ask
and I'll try to spell it out with more detail. Now, about the actual
performance.... I wasn't in any way expecting the Cadets hornline to sound that
much better than the Cavies, but they did. There was a huge difference. This was
seriously probably the best hornline performance I've ever heard. I did not once
hear an individual sticking out of the ensemble. At times I couldn't believe my
ears... it almost didn't sound real they blended so well. Words can't describe
it. Percussion.... not quite as blown away by them as the horns, but boy that
feature in the closer was cookin'. I know just about nothing about guard, but I
could tell that the Cadets guard was quite a bit dirtier than Cavies or
Phantom's, but I think they'll clean it up. There seemed to be a few holes
tonight... one in the snare line... maybe some in the horns,
I can't quite remember. The drill is significantly dirtier than the Cavies, but
again, I am confident it will be stellar come finals. They march beautifully
however. The point I remember most is toward the end when they hit the company
front at one step intervals and push it forward and to their right. They were
coning directly toward me and the feet and legs were almost impeccable. What a
tempo. This was definitely one of the best all around drum corps performances
I've ever seen.

Now for some random awards for tonight based on my opinion only:

Best Hornline: Cadets
Best Colorguard: Phantom
Best Drumline: Cadets
Best Front Ensemble: Phantom
Best Drill: Cadets
Best Visual Execution: Cavaliers
Best Amplification: BAC
Best Drum Major Uniform: Troopers (Duh)
Best Crowd Response: end of Cadets show (yea, I was surprised too)
 
July 9 - Hershey PA
written by mfrontz

The Cadets: I hate to admit being wrong, but I was wrong. After seeing it, 
I think it works just fine. The narration serves in this show to provide/
heighten dramatic tension that the musical and visual ensemble then resolves. 
For example, the opening where the four different flags representing 
diversity, practice, expression, and something else start in different 
sections of the field and then they come together and suddenly at the big hit 
everybody has the same flag. Effective. The trumpet section is tremendous. 
The whole brassline is so good that it's just that much more effective when 
the drumline, behind all of them, hits you between the eyes, carrying OVER a 
Top 3 hornline playing full bore. As noted somewhere else, the guard had a 
couple of drops tonight. Maybe their hands were sweaty - it sure was hot last 
night.

I thought that the narration blended very well, but there was a timing issue 
with the narration in the opener, which leads me to my critical comments on the 
narration. I'm sure the narration is being judged on the GE Music sheets. That's 
where it belongs. And Mr. Hopkins, please make sure that the narration is up to 
the quality of the world-class hornline, drumline, and guard you have. Make sure 
that the narrators (pit players, all?) BELIEVE - hah! - in what they are saying 
and can communicate to the audience. Their tone quality, expression, etc. is just 
as important and perhaps more important than the hornline playing to the end of a 
phrase or a drumline attacking together. The little things will be the difference 
from a convincing piece of music (like "Lincoln Portrait") and something that is 
unconvincig

 

 Performance Reviews - June 29 - July 7

 Review of Cadets - date of viewing not specified
written by Boybugle63

Hear you with regard to fan reaction. I guess it is to be expected, though, 
same as any other "sport". You certainly won't find Red Sox fans cheering the 
Yankees...I'm afraid we have a lot of narrow-minded Folks following the corps 
activity. Too many people have their identity wrapped up in a corps. I mean, 
SCV will always be my favorite and my bias, but I certainly recognize and 
acknowledge better corps and lesser corps just the same. I don't always think 
they should win; they aren't always good enough to win.

I get tired of the immature behavior, too. There are more constructive ways to 
express an opinion, and certainly not to the kids that are out there doing what 
they've been trained to do at the request of the leadership. That is just so 
unfair and wrong.

My own bias at this point at least with the corps I've seen: Cavies, Devils, 
Cadets, Bluecoats...is that the Cadets has the more engaging and entertaining 
show. Cavies are enjoyable but break no new ground.

I think the narration is a little over the top,but I can appreciate the concept 
and my oh my do they move and play with passion and do they ever command the 
field from the openingstatement to the closing remarks. Attributes that I didn't 
pick up at all from any of the aforementioned corps.

Crown and Crusaders who have programs that engage the audience to a higher
level than some of those above them in scoring. so, at the end of the day, we 
should be asking who is OUR personal winner and let the judges have their own 
little party. I mean, do we go and watch to associate ourselves to a winner 
only? Or are we there to appreciate the diverse offerings and efforts of all 
the corps respecting their differences with regard to concept, talent, and of 
course, leadership? It would seem the former is all that is in play and being 
lost on the audience is truly what these groups are doing to challenge not 
only their own members but our thinking as an audience.

Will I ever see a show that I'm as partial to as the 1980 SCV? Probably not. 
but there are plenty of programs better, right? They didn't even win or come 
close...but that show that year was my winner. And it has stood the test of 
time....how often I pull that show out to watch and marvel, and of course, 
let it take me back.

I fear that people are losing the ability to appreciate the activity for what 
it is and while competitionis certainly what has advanced the activity, it 
shouldn't be also what kills it.

July 7 - Allentown, PA
written by KRtrumpet182

The Cadets: I love the music, and the entire ensemble was noticeably clean. 
The drumline was fantastic throughout, and the hornline was tight, powerful, 
and well balanced. There were points in the program where I didn't mind the 
narration (the beginning introduction segment). But at other points, it is 
amateurish and cliche (the middle rehearsal section). But they are performing 
this show very well, and it's great music. I love the Karl Jenkins ending, 
especially the last chord.

We moved down to the fence for the encore, and it was excellent. I was hoping 
to hear parts of the show minus the narration, but they played mostly their 
other CD tracks: Shenandoah, Philip Bliss, Yesterday, Rocky Point Holiday, 
Back to the Future. Their hornline is absolutely fantastic and gave me chills 
during each piece.
 
June 29 - Westminster, MD
written by InspaDave


The Cadets . . . are on fire and in Mid summer form. Tom Aungst's 
writing is unmistakable. Lots of notes, and well played. Best 
basses of the night. Loudest hornline of the night. First impact 
takes your breath away. Perhaps the horns were a little excited 
causing them to not win brass. Then again Phantom has #### good 
hornline. I serioulsly wanted to hate this show before last night. 
Like many I do not care for the narration, especially emo boy in 
the 3rd movement. However, there is so much else going on that it 
is easy to ignore the talking. An amazing display of double 
tounging by the trumpets that went on forever (in a good way). 
The rehearsal section was well done, especially by the guard soloist. 
It was intersting to watch him in ensemble. His moves look completely 
natural, but he did the same thing in every run thru. Amazing 
choreography. The bump and grind in Blue Shades, the crazy tank tread 
drill move, company front . . . I could go on and on. There was some 
expression around me of dislike of the narration, but no one could deny 
the excellence of this corps. Devs and Cavies will need their A+ extra 
credit game to beat the Cadets. They are that good.

June 29 - Westminster, MD
written by drewbugler


Cadets: The narration completely makes sense to me and the show. They 
played the heck out of their show, and I really enjoyed it. They have 
that "it" quality that they get from time to time where I know they will 
be sitting atop as world champions. I'm calling it now.


Performance Reviews - June 21-26

June 26 - Lexington, KY
written by Elmo Blatch


Cadets
I have seen the YouTube videos. I have read the reviews. I am not a fan of 
George Hopkins. I do not like amplification. I generally do not get along 
with the views of Cadets fans in these threads. That in mind, in my 20+ 
years of drum corps exposure, this was the best drum corps program I 
have ever witnessed. I was in absolute awe of the performance level of the 
corps. The musical writing has got to be, the most talented expression of 
writing written for a hornline. This hornline may go down as one of the 
cleanest, loudest hornlines that have ever graced the field. The drumline 
was nowhere near the same level as the guard and hornline (the guard was 
amazingly on---late July clean). Honestly, I would have put the drumline 
in 3rd. The drill is very dirty though, but it is so complex that it will 
take all year to clean. I have no doubt that this program will finish in 
the top 2. If it wins first place, I will not surprised.

Having said this, in my 20+ years of drum corps exposure, this was the worst 
drum corps program I have ever witnessed. The amplification background noise 
was so prohibitive as to make the poetry seem like amateur poet night at a 
local bar. The lyrics were cheap, contrived, and really played to a non-drum 
corps audience. The forced way of the poem really bothered me. In fact, 
everybody, and I mean everybody I talked to (newcomers, drum corps veterans, 
etc.) were all saying "this would be so much better if there was no talking." 
Perhaps this is part of George's way of bringing more people to drum corps. 
Perhaps this was part of his vision.

George, please hear me. Tonight, you brought out emotions in me musically and 
visually that I never felt. Although this will probably not be read by you or 
your staff, I know you are programming for a much larger audience. Your group 
was an amazing sight. The audience was in awe of the level of talent, 
musicianship, and showmanship. I have a hard time believing how any corps is 
going to come close to your program at the end of the year. When it cleans up, 
you might very well break your own 2005 record. I asked myself this though: 
In five years when I have the DVD, will I enjoy the program as much as I did 
the first viewing? Will it be as magical as it was that night? Again and 
again, the recurring thought of the narration comes to mind. To me, it seems 
in five years the lyrics will seem even more trite--taking away from one of 
the best drum corps experiences I have ever witnessed.

June 23 - Atlanta, GA
late review written by Hrothgar15


Cadets
Because I did not view this corps’ performance, I cannot comment on it*.

* Editor's note: This young reviewer does not appear to have any personal
animosity directed towards the Cadets, but he is strongly opposed to the use of
amplification, voice, and narration in drum corps programs. He therefore chose
to abstain from reviewing the Cadets' performance in Atlanta as a form of
protest, which we view as his right. We commend him for having the courage of
his convictions...something that all Cadets respect...and thank him for the
dignified manner in which he presented his protest.

June 26 - Lexington, KY
written by nizerifin


Just saw them in lexington last night, and from my experience in drum corps, 
it looks to me that the Cadets have the package (hard drill + music program) 
to win it all. And I'm definitely not a fan, but I can't overlook a good program.

June 26 - Lexington, KY
written by Justinfisher


Cadets - first things first, this corps is talented, and pulling off some tough 
stuff!! visually, i found myself checking out drill A LOT. kudos to the brass, 
these guys are flat out moving and still making good sounds! drumming wise, 
i agreed with scoring/placement. Aungst/Larrivee have written another great 
percussion book and the influence of Colin McNutt is obvious, and their 
feature.....i'm looking forward to seeing that develop!! it's good now, but 
you can see that the potential for "jaw dropping" is there. as far as narration, 
i'm not for it, or against it. as long as it is done tastefully. that being 
said, i think this is their best attempt at using narration yet.


June 23 - Atlanta, GA
written by: ruaq8tr2


Regarding the Cadets and their narration- I have seen it twice and have 
to admit that I think it works for them. This show is really good if you can 
handle the narration (or even grant them some forgiveness). I can also see 
why some members of other corps love this show because they are identifying 
with what Cadets are trying to do. I will agree that the narration might be 
a little too much, but give this show a chance. It really rocks and they are 
definitely going to handle it well in August.


June 23 - Atlanta, GA
written by George

The spread they have pulled out ahead of Crown is really impressive / I get the 
feeling Cadets are one determined, hard working corps this year. A week ago they 
just edged Crown and lost to Coats - since then they have pulled into a different 
realm from Crown and have defeated Coats head to head. Impressive if you ask me.

combined review
June 21 - Benson, NC
June 22 - Columbia, SC
written by ucfrellis


Cadets - Unbelievable. Runnin' and Gunnin' only louder and faster and better.
Narration? Yes. But ya know? It is really really cool. I wish they could help
you actually focus on them (the narrators) a little better as, for me, I got
frustrated trying to find them sometimes around the field. The only part of the
talking that leaves me flat, at this point, is the 'reflective' part in the
middle, because, quite frankly, I don't believe the speaker. The teen angst card
is just a tough sell, I'll bet if he played like he was proud, and not
sentimental, it would work better for me. The hornline is just plain ridiculous,
and the drums are vintage. Guard? excellent. Drill, amazing. They have the drill
move of the year as a block flies across the field from side 1 to side 2 with
cavie style rotations going on iside it - just incredible. And for you narrator
haters, you gotta at least love when the guy says "It allows us to do things
like THIS" and the trumpets begin a hellacious phrase of d
ouble tongueing for the next 32 meas or so. They do have some technical issues
to work out still, and the only thing that I personally do not like is when the
mics top out when the kids are trying to talk about the 1000 decibels right
behind them at about 3 points in the show. From a soundperson perspective, that
really is unforgivable and easily fixed. But again, I'm sure they have a plan,
and a team. I can't imagine how great everyone else is if Cadets are this good.
I haven't enjoyed Cadets this much since 2000. As far as crowd reaction, I
haven't heard anyone talking down the narration in any of the stadiums so far.
The columbia crowd was going berserk. Will they win? Who knows? We'll get a
better feel in the next week or so as everyone begins heading north for the 4th.

June 22 - Columbia, SC
written by Mikekhs

Cadets. Not sure on the narration, but they had two mic issues tonight. I was at
this same show last year and thought that Crown's horns were better and louder.
Not tonight. Garfield has a mighty hornline. The battery is struggling, although
they were better tonight than when I saw them this afternoon. They marched a
snare hole and that never helps. To be fair though...they are playing some stuff
and really moving out there. Guard is going to be killer. Really cool first hit
with the yellow flag. I was not expecting the big sound from them this early.


June 22 - Columbia, SC
written by boxingfred

Cadets- Continue to clean, Cut and revise naration and add guard work. The drums
while playing some of the most difficult parts I've heard from a Cadet line in
sometime, are marching at 210 bpm! It reminds me of 93 a little. Yes! The wall
of sound was there, the musicality from the guard is incredible and as the drill
get cleaner the difficulty is exposed even more. Expect some surprises musically
and drill wise from the corps in up comming shows.


June 21 - Bensen, NC
written by brassinstructor

OK people, this has got to stop.Let me give you a quarter so you can call
someone who cares that you don't like narration or amps. Better yet, call 911
for the WAAAAmbulance.....that call is free.

I was at the Benson show, and let me tell you, everyone around me thoroughly
enjoyed the Cadet's show. Your statement that MOST people hate it.....well the
95% of the audience that was out of their seats before the release of the last
note tells me your statistics are skewed.

Im not a Cadet's homer....I thought Crown had a better total package......but
seriously, give these kids some credit. It is a well designed show that is
entertaining if you can just remove your cabeza from an orafice and realize that
change is good, and that it is about having an emotional moment with these
performers for 10 minutes. I challenge you to listen to the Cadets perform and
not share an emotion with them.......and that, Ladies and Gentlemen, is what
their show is all about. This is beginning to be ironic.....


June 21, 2006 - Benson, NC
written by Dave Greybill, DCPfanatic

"Cadets: I liked this show a lot better then I did on seeing the webcast. They're
still very dirty right now but man can these guys play and absolutely haul
around the field. A bit of a flub (I hope) on some of the narration tonight. 26
countries and 4 states? All joking aside, I really like this show tonight. Great
hornline this year, visual design seems to be improved and I think the show
design is just flat out better then last years. I could see this show finding
its way into the top 3 by the years end."

June 21 - Benson NC
written by chris ncsu

"I haven't heard The Cadets this loud...ever in my live experiences 
(Finals 2001, Charlotte 02, Finals 03, Finals 05, Finals 06)...may be partly 
due to seating arrangements...but they were LOUD. My goodness...that first 
hit in the opener, after the narration does the 'I believe in...ONE' or 
whatever it is they say...wow. There was no vocal introduction to the 
show by the pit guy or whatever that I saw on an AllAccess replay of a 
show a week ago. Just started with a few counts of silent drill, maybe 
a little pit playing, before a small ensemble of horns introduced the 
Appalachian Spring motif. I haven't watched the YouTube clips enough 
times to know if/where/how they've altered the narration, so I can't 
speak to that. The opener cooks, it's a great piece. I recall one specific 
audible 'oooohhh!' moment from the crowd towards the end of the opener 
when the hornline halts and does their body movements with the various horn 
voices fading in and out...great moment. The flags at least during the first 
part of the opener were in 3 or 4 groups with different, bright colors. 
Blue Shades worked for the most part...the various shouting commands 
recreating a practice got to be too much. The trumpet guy who does the 
'I was nobody til I found music' narration in the closer does indeed need 
to work some things out...he's trying very hard not to be out of breath 
after Blue Shades and after he does some marching-playing in the closer 
in between narration bits...there are times it either sounds a little 
creepy or a little suicidal, and it's all in the texture of his voice...
at times his voice is too deep, at times it's the breathing, etc. Anyway,
the closer is a great piece, but I wasn't feeling a TON of energy out of 
them last night. Either in Blue Shades or in the closer, the hornline does 
a great drill move over in right field during a drum break that got some 
big cheers, too. I actually don't recall much of the guard work, sometimes 
when you try hard to pay attention to everything you remember nothing. They 
got a great ovation, and I wasn't trying very hard to observe the audience 
but I at least didn't NOTICE any boos or bad remarks or what not...except 
from two band geeks in front of me who already had opinions and 
foreknowledge anyway. My mom did say 'That was EXCELLENT!...but the 
talking was a little distracting in places' I didn't warn her about anything 
beforehand. By the way, are their guard uniforms in yet? The ones they had on 
looked uniform between everyone for the most part, but they were white...
I'm just a little surprised by white or cream colors..."

 

PERFORMANCE REVIEWS - JUNE 16-19

ANNAPOLIS - JUNE 16
written by kdaddy

Without narration, this show is akin to 2001 or 2003, both great shows. With
narration, it's akin to 2006. I've said before that, given the evidence I've
seen, I conclude that I don't like narration. I'm open to being proven
otherwise. And this show didn't prove otherwise. Narration throughout the show -
I don't like it and I don't think it's effective. Otherwise it's a terrific,
straightforward, no-gimmick drum corps show. Great drill.

PITTSBURGH - JUNE 17
written by DCIguy01

"Here they came. The corps everyone has been dogging on for the past year, and
especially the last 24 hours. Anyone who has been reading my posts knows how big
of an ANTI-narration guy I am, so obviously I was not expecting to enjoy the
next 11 minutes of my life very much. For the first 30 seconds or so, it was
just that...like an itch that wouldn't go away. But once the guys in Maroon got
done with the opener, I looked past the smokescreen and realized that this group
of musicians is AWESOME. The hornline, on several occasions, made my ears
ring...something which has not happened since I saw Carolina Crown last year at
Allentown. Holy crapoly, the hornbook was as amazing as I've heard them play
since 2001. They had the quality of the Cavaliers, only at a higher decibal
level. The contra presence at the bottom really pushed this corps over the edge.
Blue Shades, played last year by Spirit, was outstanding!! THAT is what a drum
corps is supposed to sound like! Speaking of what a drum corps is supposed to 
sound like...the Cadets drumline. If tonight was any kind of an early indication, 
they are going to take the drum title when it's all said and done. I also got 
to watch them play up close and personal with the on field cadence, which was 
an added bonus. Visually, this corps was the best of the bunch as far as 
entertainment and drill was concerned. Execution-wise, they had a spectacular 
night as well. Very rarely do you see legs that straight and that much 
in-time this early in the season. Let the Cadets serve as an example for all 
those who wish to march straight legged style. So what is my bottom line on 
the Cadets? Narration or not, THE CADETS ARE THE DEAL. They are the loudest 
and most exciting group in DCI I've heard. Once they meet up with the other 
big dogs, it is going to be very VERY interesting to see where they fit in, 
especially once they go through the washing machine. I cannot wait to see how the 
final product looks, and this is coming from a guy who up until a few hours 
ago...despised the show."

Pittsburgh - June 17
written by Kevin Gamin for Drum Corps World
Kevin is DCP News Managing Editor

"You may find it hard to believe that the Cadets (2nd, 73.50) can combine the
most traditional elements of their heritage along with a very progressive show
concept and narration. After viewing this year's production of "This I Believe",
seeing really is believing. A fast-paced drill combines with an aggressive brass
and percussion book which is classic Cadets to give fans in-your-face drum
corps. Narration gives fans a glimpse into the hearts of the Cadets' members.
This is especially effective during the closer, during which a member of the
trumpet line talks about how music changed his life. The Cadets had a strong
performance and can definitely give the Cavaliers a run for the top spot this
season."



Fairfield - June 19
written by Mike Millhaem, Daedalus707

Cadets: wow. WOW. WOW! meh. WOW!


Fairfield - June 19
written by Jordsterr

After seeing them in Fairfield last night, I am completely amazed at how great
this brass section is. Definitely among the best I've heard. I could not believe
how full they sounded even at the end of the show when they are just running for
their lives. This may the most physically in shape drum I've seen.

The color guard was also much improved. I was not at all surprised to see April
Gilligan on the track after the show.


NON-DATE-SPECIFIC

written by boxingfred

All of you who are against naration, That's cool.
But, If it doesen't really bother you.
Or, If you haven't seen the show yet.
Or If your bashing just cause you think your supposed to,
or some of the loudest
opinion makers are doing it.

YOU ARE MISSING A KICK AZZ DRUM CORPS SHOW.
BY A FIRE BREATHING DRUM CORPS!


written by Gellio

OMG. I just watched the Cadets. This show could win DCI - great music, great
drill, great design. What a NIGHTMARE!!!!!!!!!

Rehearsing in the Rain
George Hopkins, July 2004
applicable to any year

Rehearsing in the Rain is hard. Through it all, the corps continued to work to 
improve. We worked the opener, dealing with tempo issues we have had for the 
past few days. I was there, Dean Westman was there, Gordon was there, Jamie 
and Eric were there, and other staff remained.

Progress was made. Real Progress. Indeed, the note is not about the rehearsal 
in the rain but the fact that the corps worked to improve, and did, through the 
entire experience.

Why do we do this? Indeed, even internally, our intention to not let time pass 
is sometimes questioned. Why rehearse in the rain when one can stay warm? Why 
get up at 7 am when one can sleep to 8?

The answer lies in the pursuit of excellence and the insistence to not allow 
circumstances to control our progress. Circumstances keep people from success; 
circumstances keep people from being all they wish to be.

Well – many people live like this. But, not the Cadets! Not people who graduate 
from the Cadets! Not people who learned from the Cadets! In this world, there 
are only so many days, so many hours, and so many minutes. We learn to use the 
time we have. We learn to use ALL of the time. Indeed, if we can generate 30 
minutes of additional quality rehearsal time per day, we end up with 30 
additional hours, or about 4 full days of rehearsal.

How much would I give for four days of rehearsal at the end of the day?
A good bit! Four days is the difference between good and great. At the end of 
such a time block, great drum corps can rise.

Well – time to get warn and head to the show. The Rain is Stopping ?

First time in shakos and tunics, June 14th, Catawissa, PA (do you remember how
you felt the first time you put on the maroon and gold?).
photo courtesy of Scotty McGarry

Oh, oh...we forgot the pants.
photo courtesy of Scotty McGarry