Norwood Park Imperials Alumni Forum
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In another thread, Bob Shreffler asked:
"And you have to wonder - if the veterans groups had bent on the rules changes the corps wanted, would there have been a need for DCI? I wonder if the corps would have been happy with even part of what they were wanting? Or was DCI inevitable, but maybe would have happened later?"
A great question, Bob! But, a complex situation. There are a few past discussion threads on our Forum which talk about DCI and it's formation:
1. Elimination of independent corps shows
2. VFW and Leg ion shows
3. DCI and fuel costs
4. NEW TIMES
5. Performance Art Activity
If the VFW and Legion had bent on the rules, it might have helped for a while. The drum corps elites (instructors) wanted rules changes so they could do "new things". Almost all independent shows used Legion score sheets & rules (a few used VFW).
But, I think that it was INEVITABLE that DCI would be formed because the corps wanted absolute CONTROL and they wanted much larger prizes at all contests.
So, when DCI was formed they started to "squeeze out" the independent shows and associations .... easy to do since they controlled the top corps. DCI is living proof that GREED and ABSOLUTE POWER are a really bad combination.
Now, the drum corps activity has been completely remolded into something different. Very few "community" corps (if any), limited place for "average" kids, (Division III might be the only place). NO independent drum corps shows. 
Take a look at the past threads and post YOUR thoughts on this.
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What did you do in the Corps? percussion
What years were you a Corps member? 1958-63
