BHOF I&E SHOW HITS THE MARK!
(By Andy “your friendly BHOF I&E Show MC” Lisko)
Bridgeport, CT, March 19, 2007/BHOF/ The Buglers Hall of Fame sponsored their inaugural North American Championship for Individual and Ensemble Brass and Percussion, on Saturday, March 17 in Bridgeport, CT at the University of Bridgeport Student Center.
Back in the 60’s and 70’s, when drum corps was more of a year round activity, I&E shows were a standard late winter, early spring fare. Many attendees were glad to see some old traditions making a re-appearance, such as the single stage for all contestant categories, allowing the fans to see the entire show. The venue may not have been a vintage AL or VFW hall, which played host so many these style shows but, the “buzz” and camaraderie exhibited by the competitors and audience was drum corps fraternity at its best.
The BHOF charter is not only to honor the activity’s great players and contributors of the past but, to continue and preserve the art of bugle playing by offering shows which provide the opportunity for buglers to develop their skills and demonstrate them in a public forum. To this end BHOF member such as Frank Dorritie conducted a brass clinic prior to the competition, while Ritchee Price and Ruben Ariola memorized the crowd with a stunning exhibition of their talent.
But, the day was not about the BHOF – rather, it was about the participants who came out to show their wares on stage. Despite horrible traveling conditions, drum corps faithful from NH, MA, PA, NY and NJ made their way to CT to be a part of what will certainly be a classic, annual event.
And the event was not solely about individual buglers hoping to make their mark. It was about percussion, ensemble and mini-corps gathering together in a friendly, relaxed competitive atmosphere. The emphasis was definitely on entertainment and the fans in the seats were not disappointed.
Participants included members from Fusion Core, Park City Pride, Selden Cadets Alumni, Smithtown Freelancers, CT Hurricanes, Sunrisers, NY Skyliners Alumni, St. Kevin’s Alumni, CT Alumni, Capital Brass, Mass Brass, Amoskeag Sound, Manchester Muchachos and St. Rita’s Brassmen.
Awards were presented for Gold, Silver and Bronze in all categories including a dazzling mini-corps competition, which saw Mass Brass top Capital Brass and Amoskeag Sound in the year’s first MCA clash. The festive event was capped off by a wee received performance of the St. Rita’s Brassmen Alumni Corps.
All in all, this was definitely a “back to the future” day for I&E competitions … solid competition, healthy bantering, spectacular exhibitions and a tremendous post-show party … drum corps at its best!
One can only imagine what the future holds for future BHOF I&E shows.
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