September 10, 2024
This spring marked the beginning of an exciting new collaboration between the Phoenix Symphony and The Academy Drum and Bugle Corps. Although it may seem surprising at first, this partnership highlights the mutual respect and admiration that music professionals have for one another. We all love good music and nurture its performance whether in the concert hall or on a football field!
As part of the Education Residency Program (a program in which our musicians work with new and emerging musicians outside our organization), this partnership allowed us to witness The Academy’s journey from their initial rehearsals to their incredible performance at the Drum Corps International World Championships in Indianapolis, IN. The Academy is a member of Drum Corps International (DCI), a marching arts performance competition circuit for mostly college-age students, but not affiliated with any particular school. The Academy, like all member corps, rehearses up to 12 hours a day and work to perfect a single 12-minute performance.
In May Phoenix Symphony musicians met with The Academy students during their training camp, offering performance tips and an opportunity to engage in a Q&A session about careers in music. In July, the Phoenix Symphony brass musicians were honored to perform during the opening of Drums Across the Desert at John D. Riggs Stadium in Mesa, AZ for the debut of The Academy’s competitive show “Opportunity Knocks.” We continued to watch and support them throughout the summer, cheering them on as they competed on the world stage in Indianapolis this August. Congratulations to The Academy Drum and Bugle Corps for their outstanding achievements this summer!
Christopher Powell, Phoenix Symphony’s Vice President of Operations and Artistic Planning, who coached the brass section of Magic of Orlando in the 1990’s reflects, “Collaborating with The Academy feels like coming full circle—it’s inspiring to see our exceptionally talented musicians mentor the young musicians of The Academy in this unique art form. We’re excited about our future together.”
Matt Prendergast, Acting Assistant Principal Percussionist for the Phoenix Symphony and a former section leader in the Spartans Drum and Bugle Corps, adds, “This partnership bridges generations of musicians and highlights the shared passion we all have for music.”
A heartfelt thanks to Mark Richardson, Executive Director and Josh Thye, Corps Director for inviting us to collaborate and share music across the Valley!
We want to thank The Kemper and Ethel Marley Foundation for their support of our incredible music and education programs like this.
