Forget those juvenile jokes about “band geeks.” The Drum Corps Associates (DCA) is an acclaimed group of young people performing for massive crowds on snare drums, trumpets, horns, and many more instruments. Outfitted in flashy attire with their instruments shining, the performers wow crowds here in the U.S. and internationally. The drum corps performers tour all summer and, lucky for us, return once again to the Navy-Marine Stadium for the championship. We provide the scoop on this four-day musical event below.

Ever since its inception in 1964, the DCA has provided drum corps members with a stellar music education. Groups of DCA members are spread all across the U.S., Germany, and Canada. It is the goal of these groups to entertain at performances, convey a love of showmanship and teamwork, and uphold standards. With all the years spent practicing, the performances at the Navy Stadium are sure to be thrilling (and not to mention, some are free!).

The performances at the Navy Stadium will bring together members from the U.S., Germany, and Canada–some 3,000 in all. This championship is the forty-nineth and is quite a big deal.

To kick off the championships, the DCA will provide a free concert on Thursday, August August 29, before the official start of the championship. Anyone and everyone is invited to City Dock at 5 p.m. for the free show. This performance and the next are the only free ones of the DCA Championship, so take advantage of them! On Friday, August 30, the second free performance occurs, at the Navy Stadium. Mini corps and individual ensemble begin this show at 4 p.m.

Saturday hosts the first round of the championships. DCA members are set to perform at 2 p.m. Sunday, more competition ensues at 10 a.m. and then again at 5 p.m. The morning show on Sunday features a throw-back to traditional drum corps. The evening show is the final round of the championship. The weekend shows require tickets, which range from $18 to $79 in price. Annapolis Business Association provides more detail about the performances and DCA Corps provides more about ticket prices.

Celebrate music, dedication to a team effort, and the joy of the show with these performances. The crowd will be cheering, the performers will be enthusiastic, and the music will be spectacular. Plus, this type of event is perfect for families!