The Springfield Marksmen, are a Senior Drum Corps based in Springfield, Massachusetts.
History[]
- The corps was formed in 1957.
- In 1968 he corps competed at the DCA championships, finishing 11th.
- The corps disbanded in 1969 as many members were called to military service.
The Marksmen Drum and Bugle Corps started in 1957 as a senior drum corps. Drum corps had been developed during the 1920’s and 30’s as veterans’ groups spawned organizations for their conventions and parades. They also sponsored junior drum corps, such as Sons of Legion or VFW and this branched out into CYO and Boy Scout sponsors over the years. The Marksmen tradition blossomed during the 1960’s, using the theme of the Springfield Armory and representing the City of Springfield. The Marksmen Senior Drum and Bugle Corps appeared in many parades throughout the northeast and competed in drum corps competitions in the Yankee Circuit, winning many awards and top honors. The Marksmen also successfully competed in national competitions, with appearances up and down the east coast, including New York’s Carnegie Hall and Shea Stadium. During the Vietnam War of the 1960’s, many members of The Marksmen were called to duty and, because of the great number of members entering military service, the corps was forced to disband in 1969.
In 1989, the corps held a reunion and interest among members was rekindled. It was decided that an alumni corps would be formed with former members of The Marksmen an members and former members of other drum corps in the area. Performances would be limited to shows and parades but not for competition purposes, which takes a great deal of rehearsal time. However, The Marksmen Alumni have still managed to secure titles. We were voted America’s Alumni Drum Corps and were named The Show Corps of the ‘90s for three years running by Drum Corps World magazine. Ages of members range from 16 to 72 years of age.
The Marksmen Alumni Drum and Bugle Corps always welcome new members. Both those with musical and/or marching experience, along with those without experience, are cordially invited to join us. We have openings in all sections: horns, drums and color guard and will teach those with a desire to learn and a desire to have fun. Instruments and uniforms are provided. The Marksmen Alumni holds rehearsals every Tuesday evening from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. at the Knights of Columbus Hall, Elder Council 69, located at 460 Granby Road (across from the Elks Lodge), in Chicopee, MA. We can also be reached at: 413-736-7810
Traditions[]
Trivia[]
External Links[]
entry for Springfield Marksmen - corpsreps.com