The U.S. Scholastic Band Association (USSBA) has announced that it will be entering the world of indoor competition in percussion, guard, twirling and dance beginning with the 2010 season.
A growing number of requests has led the group to commit to a program; however, USSBA is not trying to compete or conflict with WGI Sport of the Arts.
“We’ve had so many requests asking us to do this and provide these services,” says Sean King, USSBA director. “We kind of fill the schedule for the guards and drum lines who can only go to a few of the regionals; we’re catering to the groups who can’t make that trip to Dayton.”
USSBA plans to create judging rules and regulations so that groups may still participate in competitions put on by WGI. Some major differences, however, include the elimination of timing penalties and the inclusion of competition for standstill percussion ensembles.
Percussionist Dennis DeLucia and guard educator Beverly Brahan have signed on as program coordinators. USSBA is planning a championship event in a prominent venue and a schedule that includes at least one competition each week for the whole season.
For updates and information, check www.usbands.org.
