Drum Corps International’s SoundSport® division recently announced two exciting opportunities for performance ensembles around the world to get involved with the competitive action scheduled for the summer of 2016—All without even having to travel from their own hometowns.

The 2016 SoundSport Virtual Preview and SoundSport Virtual World Championships will make it possible for teams to participate in SoundSport performances through online video submissions, putting themselves in front of an experienced panel of adjudicators and a worldwide audience.

“Whether preparing for any of our summer series of SoundSport events in conjunction with the annual Drum Corps International Tour or refining their performances back home, teams can gain invaluable insights to help their members achieve excellence in an exciting new way, “ SoundSport Events and Promotions Manager Eric Hjellming said.

SoundSport Virtual Preview

The SoundSport Virtual Preview will provide U.S. SoundSport teams with the opportunity for critique on their performances before participating in live competitions scheduled in the coming months across the country.

International teams can also take advantage of the opportunity to gain feedback on their performances as they prepare to take part in the SoundSport Virtual World Championships that will culminate as part of the new SoundSport International Music and Food Festival on August 13 in Indianapolis.

As part of the program, participants will be asked to record a video of their performance and upload it to the Internet.

Videos will then be reviewed by SoundSport’s team of nationally-recognized performing arts education professionals who will provide commentary designed to help teams maximize performance strengths.

“The emphasis is on helping SoundSport teams to refine their performances and giving them feedback to help create a high-achieving, highly-entertaining experience for participants and fans alike,” Hjellming said.

SoundSport Virtual World Championships

The very first SoundSport Virtual World Championships, held in conjunction with the Drum Corps International World Championships in August, gives teams the ability to get involved with the biggest SoundSport event of the year even if unable to travel to Indianapolis.

All virtual participants will be showcased and recognized as part of the SoundSport International Music and Food Festival on Saturday, August 13, with their achievements displayed on the video boards of Lucas Oil Stadium during the evening of the DCI World Championship Finals.

Just like groups attending the live event, teams will be adjudicated on a number of categories including Music Performance, Visual Performance and Overall Impression while participating in one of six competitive classes.

Each ensemble will receive an official Gold, Silver or Bronze rating based on their video performance. They can also choose to participate in SoundSport’s Festival Class to receive feedback on their exhibition performance.

How to Get Started

Visit SoundSport.com for additional info and to fill out the virtual events interest form today!