Drum Corps International and Conn Selmer are teaming up in a new three-year partnership designed to strengthen music education while enhancing two of DCI World Championships’ most impactful educational experiences.
Beginning in 2026 and running through 2028, Conn Selmer will serve as the presenting sponsor of the INpact Band and the Emerging Music Educators Workshop — two programs that bring hundreds of students and future educators to Indianapolis each August for hands-on learning alongside the excitement of World Championships week.
“Drum Corps International is proud to welcome Conn Selmer as a presenting sponsor of the INpact Band and Emerging Music Educators Workshop,” said Cedric Robinson, DCI’s Manager of Business Development. “This partnership directly supports student access, educator development, and high-quality educational experiences at DCI World Championships. Together, we’re investing in the future of music education.”
The INpact Band program, now in operation for well over a decade, brings hundreds of middle school students from across Indiana together to learn and perform as part of the weekend’s festivities. Under this new partnership, Conn Selmer will expand the educational reach of the INpact experience by adding specialized clinicians to the band’s talented team of educators and volunteers.
Every participating INpact Band student will also receive a one-year subscription to Music Professor, Conn Selmer’s online instructional platform, giving participants continued access to guided lessons beyond their time in Indianapolis.
“At Conn Selmer, our mission is to support music education at every stage, and partnering with Drum Corps International is a natural extension of that commitment,” said Michael Kamphuis, Vice President, Division of Education. “Through programs like the INpact Band and the Emerging Music Educators Workshop, we aim to remove barriers, expand access, and intentionally invest in the next generation of musicians and music educators.”
The partnership also supports the Emerging Music Educators Workshop, a two-day program that allows college students pursuing careers in music education to gain real-world teaching experience. Participants work directly with INpact Band students, attend professional development sessions, and connect with experienced educators — all while immersed in the energy of DCI’s biggest weekend of the year.
While fans fill the stands for the performances, programs like INpact and the Emerging Music Educators Workshop quietly help shape the next generation of performers, teachers and leaders — ensuring the activity’s impact extends well beyond the field.
“This partnership with Drum Corps International is about shaping the future of music education,” added Dr. William J. Earvin, Director of Educational Partnerships & Sales. “Together, we’re creating meaningful access to transformative experiences that develop leaders and ensure music education continues to thrive.”
