Photo of Homestead High School drumline by Ken Martinson/Marching.com
This spring has seen erratic weather swings—with temperatures in the 70’s one day and 40’s the next. It’s hard to believe that some parts of the continental United States still have snow on the ground in May.
During WGI World Championships for both guard and percussion weekends, I was just one of the many sponsors and spectators/shoppers huddled in front of heaters in the exhibitor tent. However, that was nothing compared to the participants’ experiences—waking up in the wee hours of the morning and practicing in the parking lot, often without jackets, during extreme wind and cold.
Through bad storms, travel problems, and logistical challenges, they have persevered. To celebrate all of their hard work, Halftime Magazine has dedicated the May/June issue to showcase all of the WGI marching winners. Hope you enjoy our annual WGI photo spread.
Our special congratulations go to the Homestead High School drumline from Cupertino, Calif., instructor David Sankus, and percussion coordinator (aka our very own percussion columnist) Lane Armey. After years of research, observation, and practice, Sankus and Armey brought Homestead High School to WGI World Championships this season. The group debuted in Scholastic World Class and made it to finals—an incredible feat! Armey shares his journey in the Sectionals column, “WGI Finals Debut.”
Now with the indoor season ended, school will soon be coming to a close as well. But instead of relaxing, band directors are already prepping for next fall. They are choosing music, recruiting, and planning overarching strategies. “The FAQs of Music Licensing” helps directors navigate the sometimes murky waters of music copyright law, answering common questions about performing custom-made arrangements in your field show, producing CDs/DVDs, and uploading online videos.
Among all the necessary tasks, raising money is also tantamount. But bands don’t need to rely on just fundraising to gain all the needed funds to run their programs. “Show Me the Money” features three groups who have successfully marketed themselves as paid musicians—for everything from weddings to large corporate events and even to professional sports games. Read how you can replicate their success at your school or organization.
Before you know it, summer will be here, and with it will come more predictable weather as well as drum corps season and then band camp. Enjoy every minute.
Keep on Marching,
Christine Ngeo Katzman
Publisher and Editor-in-Chief
