Division 3 - Bronze Medal

From the heartland of America, Tulsa, Oklahoma, the 86th Regiment made a significant impression in the recently concluded 'Unspecified' Fantasy Marching Arts competition. Coming in 3rd place in the fiercely competitive Division 3, the Regiment showcased their captivating show titled "Back and Forth."

Starting off, the Regiment's wind section made an immediate impact with their rendition of "Blue Shades." There was a strong sense of discipline and harmony that radiated from the members as they maneuvered through the complex musical arrangement. However, the sound felt slightly off-balance at times, with some overbearing brass elements overpowering the woodwinds. This caused a bit of a falter in the group's overall score in the Winds category, securing them a 7.25.

The percussion performance was a unique display of rhythms and cadences. The members exhibited a high degree of technicality, playing the piece "Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain" with intricate rhythms and syncopation. There was an audible improvement from the wind section, but a couple of missed cues and slight inconsistencies in the snare line led to a Percussion score of 7.075.

Moving on to the Music Ensemble performance, it was a treat to witness the unity and cohesion of the 86th Regiment. The ensemble executed the difficult piece "Blue Rondo A La Turk" with a high degree of musical precision, earning them a 6.835. Despite the lower score, the audience was visibly moved by the deep harmonies and dynamic tempo changes of the piece.

The visual performance and color guard segments of the show were slightly overshadowed by the musical elements. A couple of missteps in the guard's flag work during their interpretation of "Blue Rondo A La Turk" led to a lower score in Visual Performance and Color Guard categories. The visuals were not entirely lost, however, as the audience appreciated the overall complexity of the drill design and flag work.

The 86th Regiment made a substantial recovery in the Visual Ensemble category with a score of 6.785. Despite a few alignment issues, the visual ensemble executed their maneuvers with an impressive level of discipline and precision.

Finally, the General Effect was where the 86th Regiment truly shone. The Music General Effect was a testament to their excellent musical selection, scoring them a 13.255. The Visual General Effect was even higher with a score of 13.405. The interplay of the musical and visual elements kept the audience riveted throughout the performance, underscoring the concept of the show, "Back and Forth."

Despite some minor issues, the 86th Regiment’s performance at the 'Unspecified' competition was an overall triumph. The dedication, hard work, and talent of the members were evident in every aspect of their performance. As they continue to hone their skills and work on their weaknesses, I expect even higher placements for this corps in future competitions. Here’s to the persistent and passionate musicians of the 86th Regiment - we're looking forward to your next performance!

Division 3 - Silver Medal

As the dust settled after the whirlwind of a competition at the Unspecified Fantasy Marching Arts event, my attention lingers on the astounding performance of the St. Louis Starriders. The corps, hailing from St. Louis, Missouri, held their own against the stiff competition in Division 3 and secured a well-deserved second place.

Their show, aptly titled "Her Point of View," was an intricate weave of music and visual artistry, enrapturing the audience with each beat and step. The repertoire, featuring pieces from Holdridge's "East of Eden," Sting's "El Tango de Roxanne," Wilby's "Paganini Variations," Feeney's "Dracula," and Howard's "King Kong," was indeed a feast for the senses.

The Winds, with their stunning execution of the chosen pieces, were a standout. Achieving a score of 7.420, they showcased their talents impressively. Their rendition of "El Tango de Roxanne" was particularly memorable, their playing eliciting an audible gasp from the audience at the powerful delivery. However, there were some noticeable synchronicity issues in the complex parts of "Paganini Variations" that seemed to have impacted their score.

Percussion, with a score of 7.425, was an energetic force throughout the performance. The powerful drumming in "Dracula" was a show-stopper, bringing an intensity that perfectly captured the dark undertones of the piece. The only weakness was a slight lack of precision during the transitions, which may have cost them points.

With a Music Ensemble score of 7.535, the Starriders truly shone. The way the winds and percussion blended seamlessly, especially during the haunting melodies of "East of Eden," was a testament to their musicality. Their synchronization, while largely excellent, had brief lapses, which I suspect affected their score.

Visual Performance, scoring a 7.425, was another strong aspect of their performance. The choreography was a vibrant embodiment of the music, most notably during "King Kong," where the performers mimicked the movements of the giant ape, much to the delight of the audience.

The Color Guard, with a 7.420, added a spectacular visual component to the performance. Their choreography during "El Tango de Roxanne," involving red scarves, added a sensuality that enhanced the piece. However, there were a few minor drops that likely impacted their score.

Visual Ensemble, scoring a 7.570, demonstrated precise drill formations and synchronized movements. They, however, lacked the impactful moments of drama that could have heightened the performance's overall impact.

The Music General Effect, with a score of 14.815, truly demonstrated the show's thematic consistency. The arrangement and performance choices resonated with the audience, evident in their reactions, but could use some refining to enhance the emotional journey.

Similarly, Visual General Effect, with a 14.810, effectively brought the theme to life visually. The use of color and movement was excellent, though there were moments where the connection between the visuals and the music could have been stronger.

Despite their second-place finish, the St. Louis Starriders are to be commended for their remarkable performance. Their musical skill, visual prowess, and overall stage presence have left an indelible mark on this competition. I eagerly await their next performance and have no doubt they will continue to captivate their audience.

Bravo, Starriders!

Division 3 - Gold Medal

What really struck me at the "Unspecified" Fantasy Marching Arts competition was the first-place winner of Division 3 – Hobbiton Drum and Bugle Corps. Hailing from the heart of The Shire, this ensemble brought something unique, refreshing, and simply magical to the table with their show aptly named “Rain”.

Hobbiton’s approach to the Winds section was particularly impactful. It was as if the storm was not just being represented but truly recreated before our eyes. The winds commenced the performance with the first piece of their repertoire "Stormy Weather," which not only showcased their technical prowess but also their collective capability to embody a narrative. The audience could feel the dark clouds gathering and the storm brewing as the brass section evoked deep, rumbling thunderclaps, while the woodwinds carried the melody like raindrops on a windowpane. This initial performance was near-perfect, with a score of 7.970, and the slight room for improvement in synchronization only added to the excitement.

The Percussion, with a score of 7.960, carried the rhythm of the storm, providing a consistent backdrop to the entire show. They captured the varying rhythms of rain – from gentle showers to a downpour – creating an auditory experience that was nothing short of immersive. The transition to "A Little Fall of Rain" highlighted their ability to shift tempo effortlessly, adding to the charm of the ensemble.

The Music Ensemble, scoring an impressive 8.230, was an absolute delight. The seamless integration between winds and percussion was striking, creating a beautiful symphony of sound that replicated the ebb and flow of rainfall. "MacArthur Park," which is notoriously difficult to perform, was executed with aplomb, showcasing the ensemble’s discipline and maturity.

The Visual Performance and Color Guard elements were not just complementary, but equally instrumental in driving the narrative. With scores of 7.970 and 7.960 respectively, the visual performance was akin to a dance with nature. The guard's use of blue and silver flags during "I Can See Clearly Now," the final piece of their repertoire, left the audience gasping at the beautiful spectacle of a post-storm sky, and ended the performance on a high note.

A standout feature of Hobbiton's performance was their General Effect, with the Music GE and Visual GE both scoring an admirable 16.460. The portrayal of the rainstorm, from the build-up to the calm afterwards, was achieved with such sophistication that it left the audience in awe.

However, even with such a phenomenal performance, there were areas of improvement. The transitions between movements, although smooth, could have been more precise. The complex synchronization required for such a narrative-driven show was, at times, slightly off. Yet, these minor shortcomings did not detract from the overall experience.

The audience’s reaction was testament to the impact Hobbiton Drum and Bugle Corps had. As the last notes echoed through the stadium and the performers took their final positions, there was a moment of stunned silence. And then, an eruption of applause, a standing ovation from an audience moved by the ‘Rain’. Hobbiton had not merely performed a show; they had taken us on a journey, reminding us of the power and beauty of a simple rainstorm.

Division 2 - Bronze Medal

It was a thrill to witness Pentium Drum & Bugle Corps take the field at the “Unspecified” competition. Coming from Austin, Texas, Pentium Drum & Bugle Corps has always held a unique position in the marching arts landscape, and their performance of "The Rhythms of the Waves" proved no exception.

Pentium’s total score of 79.635 secured them a respectable third place in Division 2. The show started off with a beautiful rendition of "Moon River" by Jacob Collier, which had the Winds receiving a score of 7.890. The brass line provided a warm and inviting tone, creating an ambiance that made you feel as though you were drifting peacefully along the river under the moonlight. The woodwinds added a hauntingly beautiful layer of complexity that evoked the ebbs and flows of the waters.

Percussion (7.885) set the pace, expertly timed, and crisp. The arrangement of "Liquid" by Jay Bocock was played with precision and clarity. There was a clear interplay between the battery and the pit, each accentuating the other in a seamless union of rhythm and melody. A highlight was definitely the snare line, whose rolls were as smooth as the river itself.

The Music Ensemble (7.975) showcased their ability to blend and balance with each section working in harmony. The transition from "Moon River" to "Liquid" was seamless and demonstrated their ability to maintain continuity. The piece de resistance was the closer "Niagra Falls" by Michael Daugherty. The ensemble swelled to a majestic forte, creating a crescendo that was the musical equivalent of witnessing the powerful waterfall.

Visual Performance (7.890) was a delightful spectacle with forms and movements that effectively embodied the show’s theme. There was a moment where the corps formed a waterfall effect, starting from the upper field and cascading downwards. It was a visual masterpiece and a definite crowd-pleaser.

The Color Guard (7.875) provided an extra layer of visual storytelling. Their flag work was impressive, especially the wave effects they created, perfectly synchronized with the music. However, there were moments when the guard wasn't quite in sync, which slightly marred the overall effect.

Visual Ensemble (8.095) was the highest scoring caption for Pentium. The drill was executed with precision, creating captivating images that matched the flow of the music. One standout moment was the spiral formation during "Niagra Falls", which seemed to whirl in sync with the surging music.

The General Effect scores (Music 16.005, Visual 16.020) reflected the strong overall design of the show. The integration of all elements – music, drill, and color guard – evoked the serene yet powerful essence of water.

From the audience's reaction, it was evident that Pentium’s performance was a hit. The roaring applause and standing ovation were testament to the corps' successful execution of their theme.

However, there is always room for improvement. There were a few synchronization issues, particularly in the color guard and some minor phasing in the brass line. But these are areas that can be refined with further practice and focus.

All in all, "The Rhythms of the Waves" was a memorable journey, showcasing Pentium Drum & Bugle Corps’ musical and visual prowess. Their strengths lie in their ability to create powerful musical narratives and visually stunning drills. We can't wait to see where the tide takes them next in their musical journey.

Division 2 - Silver Medal

The Galactic Regiment took us on an extraordinary journey of discovery at the latest Fantasy Marching Arts competition, "Unspecified". Originating from the far reaches of the Rings of Saturn, this fascinating ensemble has a unique ability to transform a performance into an astronomical journey. From the very first note to the last, the audience was spellbound, captivated by the story unfolding before them.

The Galactic Regiment scored an impressive total of 80.870, placing them in a commendable second place in the Division 2 category. Their performance was underscored by a unified display of skill and precision, with each caption creating a crucial part of their astronomical narrative.

They opened their show with the Winds section, scoring an 8.080. The execution was crisp, and the transitions between thematic elements were well executed. The dynamic range was broad, showcasing the performers' ability to control the music's intensity. While the intonation could have been more precise in some parts, the overall performance left an indelible impression.

The Percussion, with a score of 8.065, added the rhythmic spine to the performance. The drumline maintained an impressive level of synchronicity throughout. Their staccato beats, coupled with the dramatic crescendos and decrescendos, provided a rhythmic undercurrent that brought an intense energy to the performance. There were some minor timing issues, but these didn't overshadow the overall delivery.

Their Music Ensemble score of 8.110 was reflective of the group's cohesive performance. Each instrumental section blended together, creating a unified sound that enveloped the audience. The ensemble managed to interpret the music's nuances with impressive skill, though there were some slight balance issues between the brass and percussion sections.

Visual Performance and Color Guard, both scoring 8.120 and 8.075 respectively, were definite highlights. The visual representation of the celestial theme was stunning. Color Guard's use of flags and props perfectly complemented the music, enhancing the storyline and giving a truly astronomical feel. The Visual Performance, though highly entertaining, could have been more in sync with the rhythm, creating a more seamless experience.

Their Visual Ensemble score of 8.110 was a testament to their visual design and execution. They managed to create an impressive visual spectacle that was as captivating as it was compelling. However, there was some room for improvement in terms of synchronization.

Their strongest sections were undoubtedly the General Effect categories, both Music and Visual, scoring a 16.160 and 16.150 respectively. The Regiment's ability to tell a compelling story through music and visuals created an engaging and immersive experience that resonated with the audience.

The audience reaction was electrifying. Each musical high-point and visual climax was met with enthusiastic applause, reflecting the corps' ability to connect with their viewers. Their performance was a stunning display of their commitment and passion for the art of drum corps.

The Galactic Regiment delivered a captivating performance. Their show "Discovery" was a stellar journey that allowed us to witness their talent and dedication. While there is always room for improvement, the Galactic Regiment's strengths are undeniable, making them a corps to watch in the future.

Division 2 - Gold Medal

On a night filled with marching musicians and color guard performances, one act stood out for its exceptional showmanship and musical virtuosity – Star of Nevada. With a score of 86.400, the Star of Nevada reigned supreme in Division 2 at the Unspecified Fantasy Marching Arts competition, demonstrating a perfect blend of creative choreography, stunning visual effects, and refined musicality.

Their performance titled “The Core of Temptation” was a masterful display of how music and movement can create an unforgettable narrative. The repertoire included works from Camille Saint-Saëns, Richard Strauss, Ottorino Respighi, and John Psathas. Each piece was meticulously chosen, seamlessly transitioning from one to another, creating a perfect harmony between traditional and contemporary elements.

Star of Nevada started the performance with a Wind score of 8.560, setting a captivating ambiance right from the beginning. The use of different tonal textures and dynamics was a testament to their skill and precision. Their rendition of “Bacchanale” was filled with vibrant and warm tones, and the sense of urgency and excitement was palpable in the air. The audience couldn't help but be drawn into the musical journey they were crafting.

The Percussion section, with a score of 9.095, was nothing short of impressive. Each rhythm was clearly defined and resonated through the stadium, creating a pulsating heartbeat that set the pace for the show. The percussionists exhibited fantastic technical skills, adding depth to the ensemble's sound and further amplifying the emotional tension in the music.

Star of Nevada’s visual ensemble, with an 8.570 score, was able to elevate the show’s visual appeal. The performers moved fluidly across the field, their synchronized formations and visually striking movements creating a mesmerizing spectacle. However, there is always room for improvement. While the general visual ensemble was compelling, some additional attention to individual performance details might result in an even higher score in future competitions.

With Music General Effect and Visual General Effect scores of 17.090 and 17.275 respectively, the ensemble demonstrated how effectively they could captivate the audience and judges alike. The audience reacted passionately to the emotionally charged performance, with many standing ovations throughout the performance. Their sophisticated interpretation of the music, combined with their impressive visual display, drew everyone into their mesmerizing narrative.

“The Core of Temptation” was a well-executed performance, demonstrating Star of Nevada’s consistent commitment to excellence. It was a delight to witness a show that was both musically and visually compelling. I look forward to seeing more of Star of Nevada in future competitions. Their performance left no doubt that they have what it takes to rise through the ranks and become a force to be reckoned with in the drum and bugle corps world.

Division 1 - Bronze Medal

Hailing from Oviedo, Florida, Riptide achieved a commendable third position in Division 1, gathering an impressive total score of 96.845. Let's take a moment to break down the captions and delve into the specifics of their performance.

The Winds, carrying the main body of the music, achieved a score of 9.685. This is indicative of the harmonic cohesiveness and well-articulated dynamics of the brass and woodwinds. The musicians did an excellent job of breathing life into the score and crafting a stunning musical panorama that left the audience captivated.

Percussion, the heartbeat of any corps, scored a 9.600. The balance between the battery and front ensemble was commendable, although some minute rhythmic discrepancies were noticeable. The snare line performed with clockwork precision, while the tenors added flavor with intricate split parts. The front ensemble added tasteful accents and flourishes, providing a strong foundation.

The Music Ensemble, the collective force of Winds and Percussion, achieved a fantastic 9.730. The musical passages were seamlessly woven together, creating an ebb and flow that held the audience spellbound. Yet, slight balance issues occasionally allowed the percussion to overshadow the winds, slightly affecting the overall effect.

Visual Performance, the eyes of the show, was a spectacle that scored a 9.735. Their drill was challenging and ambitious, yet they executed it with near-flawless precision and energy. The guard was particularly striking, with their elegant flag work and well-synchronized movements, scoring a 9.675. However, some of the members had a few minor issues with equipment handling.

The Visual Ensemble scored a slightly lower 9.535, primarily due to a few moments of unclear visual articulation and minor inconsistencies in spacing. However, their continuous movement and uniform body visuals were a visual treat.

Riptide's General Effect, both musically (19.400) and visually (19.485), was spectacular. The design team did a remarkable job creating an engaging, cohesive show that successfully told a captivating story.

As the final chord rang out, the audience erupted into a rousing applause, rewarding Riptide's excellent performance. It was evident that despite minor shortcomings, the ensemble had worked tirelessly to bring their show to life.

In conclusion, Riptide's performance at the "Unspecified" competition was an exhilarating experience, filled with highs and lows, suspense and drama. The team's cohesive performance, clear dedication, and passion were undeniable. With a little fine-tuning, I have no doubt that Riptide will continue to rise in the ranks, enchanting audiences with their captivating performances in the future. Congratulations to Riptide on their exceptional performance, and here's to many more!

Division 1 - Silver Medal

The Rebels, hailing from Fort Worth, took to the field at the Unspecified competition and blew us away with their spectacular display of talent, skill, and creativity.

Right from the start, it was clear that the Rebels were in it to win it. Performing "The Other Side Now," the show was packed with a diverse repertoire that showcased the corps' impressive range. From Onofrio Cellamare's haunting "Walk me again" to the powerful "Iron" by Woodkid, to the intense "Symphony No. 7: III. Very Fast" by David Maslanka, the selection was a roller coaster ride of emotions that left the audience spellbound.

The group scored an overall 97.635, securing a second place finish behind Unspecified. Analyzing the scores by caption, it's clear where their strengths lie. Their Winds and Percussion sections, with scores of 9.755 and 9.750 respectively, showcased a mastery of technical skill and musicianship that was truly outstanding. The rebels' attention to detail and overall control of tempo, dynamics, and articulation were particularly noteworthy.

The Music Ensemble also held its own with a score of 9.670. The cohesion and balance between the brass, woodwinds, and percussion sections, along with the blend of sounds created a powerful musical impact. Their Visual Performance at 9.750, contributed to their high score. The precision in their drill, the expressiveness of their body movements, and their overall spatial awareness were commendable.

The Color Guard, scoring 9.740, was a highlight of the performance. Their beautifully choreographed movements and well-executed tosses added an emotional depth and visual spectacle to the performance. Their Visual Ensemble score of 9.665, while still high, hinted at a minor weakness. A slight lack of synchronization at times and minor discrepancies in the drill formations led to a slight dip in this score.

The General Effect scores, both Music and Visual, stood at 19.650 and 19.655 respectively. Here, the Rebels truly shone. The creative show design, the impactful dynamics, and the compelling visual aesthetics all played into the creation of an overall captivating experience.

The audience reaction was nothing short of electric. From the opening note to the final set, the Rebels kept us on the edge of our seats. Every crescendo was met with anticipation, every solo with rapt attention, and every stunning visual moment with a sea of applauding hands.

The Rebels' performance last night was an exemplary display of what makes drum and bugle corps competitions such a delight. While there is always room for improvement, particularly in their visual ensemble performance, the Rebels are definitely a force to reckon with. I'm already looking forward to their next performance!

Division 1 - Gold Medal

The venue was packed to the brim with an enthusiastic audience of 3,785, almost reaching the maximum capacity of 4,000. But the talk of the town, the show that truly stole the night was Unspecified. From their dynamic entrance to their breathtaking finish, Unspecified, hosted by an unspecified league (UNSP-C), put up an unforgettable performance that left the audience in absolute awe.

Firstly, we must talk about the scores. Unspecified came out on top with a near-perfect score of 99.660, a significant leap ahead of the runners up, Rebels, who trailed with a score of 97.635. Unspecified showed us why they're at the top of the game, demonstrating a level of mastery that was both awe-inspiring and humbling. Each caption showcased an astonishing level of excellence.

Let's break down their performance by captions. In the Winds caption, Unspecified scored a near-perfect 9.965, demonstrating exceptional wind instrumentalist skills. The brass section's notes were crisp, piercing through the air with utmost clarity, while the woodwinds offered a delightful melody, intertwining seamlessly with the rhythm set by the brass. They followed up with a Percussion score of 9.955, with a mesmerizing display of precision and synchronization. The drumline was razor-sharp, displaying complex rhythmic patterns that underscored the whole performance, while the front ensemble provided a rich, balanced percussive harmony.

Their Music Ensemble performance, with a score of 9.970, was nothing short of spectacular. The synchronization between sections, the tonal balance, and the overall execution was sublime. The integration of the Wind and Percussion elements was so seamless it was almost surreal. The Visual Performance (9.965) and Color Guard (9.955) were equally impressive. The members moved with an almost ethereal grace across the field, their formations creating a visual tapestry that was as captivating as the music they produced. The Color Guard performance was a spectacle of color and movement, adding an essential element of visual storytelling to the overall performance.

In terms of General Effect, both Music (19.935) and Visual (19.945) scored impressively. The performance drew the audience in, the musical arrangements creating an emotional journey that was visually mirrored by the movement on the field. This was more than just a show; it was a deeply engaging experience that resonated with every spectator in the field.

But even in this stellar performance, there were few areas where Unspecified could improve. The Visual Ensemble (9.970) performance was amazing, but there were moments where synchronization could have been tighter. Also, as excellent as the Color Guard was, a bit more intricacy in the choreography would have elevated the performance further.

As the members of Unspecified took their final bow, the audience exploded into cheers and applause, a testament to the powerful connection the corps had made with them. I was moved by Unspecified’s performance - it was a triumph of artistic expression and technical skill, a reminder of what can be achieved when passion meets discipline.

no idea how i didnt see this earlier, but this is awesome! thanks for doing this