News and Announcements

For Immediate Release

April 3, 2007

215-292-1522

CORPS UPDATE!

We've been quiet most of the winter...and we felt it was time for a BIG update on our show and the state of the drum corps!

From the cold, ice, and snow of the winter emerges THE BUSHWACKERS! The corps has been simmering all winter long...we've moved, we've had rehearsals canceled due to weather, we've had parades all over the place...and all the while we've been simmering...waiting for good weather and the opportunity to get together again...

...that time is upon us. Prepare for a drum corps explosion of mammoth proportions!

"This is going to be a Bushwacker program that will explore new avenues unlike any year." - Jim Dugan

The Bushwackers design team met again in New Jersey last weekend to put the final touches on our 2007 production, "Around the Town". The brass arrangements by Al DiCroce and percussion arrangements by Ralph Hardimon and Joe Itkor have been absolutely amazing. As Al put it, "I am so excited with the development and synergy of our program and the chemistry, passion and commitment of our design and consulting team."

He continued by adding "With this program in the hands of our Great Staff and Talented well trained Performers, "Bush 07" promises to be a year to remember. I can't wait to see it come to life on the field."

Well, the time for it to come to life on the field is just about upon us. The Bushwackers will host our final indoor rehearsal of the 2007 season on April 14th and 15th in Franklin, NJ. The brass and percussion are very nearly finished with the music for this intricate and aggressive production, and much of the drill is finished and ready for the members, who traditionally fly through learning drill.

SHOW UPDATE!

The 2007 show is entitled "Around the Town", and paints a musical and visual portrait of a day touring New York City - the nation's artistic capital. The music is derived mostly from Leonard Bernstein's "Fancy Free" and "On the Town", and captures not only the passion and energy of Bernstein's youth, but also the musical diversity of the city itself.

The show begins with "Lonely Town" as the city awakens. Imagine crossing into the city as the sun rises in the East, illuminating the greatest city on Earth. We are in awe of its sheer size and beauty.

Next, with "Galop", the corps explores the frenzy and frantic nature of the city. Picture the morning rush, street vendors, traffic, etc. "Galop" displays the technical proficiency for which the Bushwackers are well known for. Through music and visual, this number generates an amazing amount of excitement and energy!

In any city, there is plenty of temptation. "Ain't Got No Tears" seduces the Bushwackers, as they explore the sultry side of New York. Brass and guard soloists interact, while the mellophones are prominently featured in this crowd pleaser of a number. "Tears" is a definite departure for the normally "classical and reserved" Bushwackers...and we like it!!!

Next, "Great Lover / Times Square" takes us to Times Square...a melting pot of civilizations and cultures, as well as tourism and industry. The new look Bushwackers percussion section is featured in this production, while the defending world champion colorguard and brass sections tackle some very challenging, and exciting work and music!

As the day winds down, we re-visit "Lonely Town" as the corps reflects on its exciting day in the city. "Lonely Town" is lush and beautiful, affording the Bushwackers the opportunity to showcase their emotional side through thick, rich colors and textures both visually and musically. Don't get comfortable, though...the ending of our show, tentatively entitled "The Kitchen Sink", will get you out of your seat for sure!

"Around the Town" is an amazing endeavor for the six time DCA World Champion Bushwackers. The corps has placed 3rd in both of the last 2 seasons, taking the high brass and high colorguard trophies in 2006. Why, after so much success with "classical/legit" repertoire, would we switch to a more "jazzy" type production? Chris Kilian, drum major since 1999 said the following:

"Bernstein's music is truly 'American' in nature, and represents the best in all genres of music. While it is most certainly influenced by jazz, the songs have a lyrical "Broadway" type dramatic quality to them, as well as requiring the technical proficiency of a classically trained musician. It's challenging, it's rewarding, and it's FUN! This show is perfect for the Bushwackers, and I can't wait to blow the stands down all summer long."

Steve Rinda, staff coordinator and visual designer added, "The 2007 production of "Around the Town" is going to be an exciting chapter in the next 25 years of the Bushwackers."

The staff and members of the Bushwackers are excited to bring to you "Around the Town". We are still accepting members in all sections. Come check us out on April 14 and 15 in Franklin, NJ and be a part of something great AND fun this summer!

The Bushwackers are the six time DCA World Champions and are the defending 2006 brass and color guard champions. The corps is still accepting applications for membership. If you are interested in becoming a member of the Bushwackers, please fill out our membership form at www.bushwackers.org/member/ or email us by clicking here. for more details.