International drum, bugle corps to perform at Carson High School

Securing a Drum Corps International performance in Carson City is a high note for organizers - a very loud high note.

"The sound is a lot more focused," explained Chad Cornwell, color guard director for Carson High School's Blue Thunder Marching Band. "And there's a lot more power to it. The brass pushes you back against your seat."

Cornwell, who is also artistic director for Summit Youth Arts, has been working with partner Brent Cooper to bring a performance to the area with the long-term goal of creating a corps here.

Both men marched in the drum-and-bugle corps, which is made up of only brass and percussion instruments.

"It's like marching band, but a thousand times more intense," Cornwell explained. "It's just good music."

Students aged 14 to 22 travel throughout North America, starting in early June and culminating in August at the World Championships. This year, the championships are Aug. 5-7 in Denver.

The Carson High band boosters are hosting their first Drum Corps International show on July 16, featuring five drum-and-bugle corps from California, Texas and Oregon as a fund-raiser.

Jennifer Sturm, a mellophone player in the high school marching band, is helping to coordinate the show and expects it will inspire her and her fellow musicians.

"Once we see them, I think we will perform better," she said. "Maybe we'll show up on time and be there for all our practices when we see how they practice and perform."

And it may encourage others to take an interest in band.

"People get involved in band when they see it come alive," she said. "It just has this sparkle.

"Since it's going to be at night, it should be spectacular."

Contact Teri Vance at tvance@nevadaappeal.com or at 881-1272.