Feb 13, 2026
Your All-Access Pass to the Marching Arts.
Rehearsal is in full swing, and the news isn't slowing down. This week, Whitney, Sadie, and Jeremy dive into the logistics of the marching arts, from WGI's major housing announcement for 2027 to the controversial rise of AI in show design. We also discuss the financial reality of modern drum corps and why skipping your post-rehearsal stretch is a "Water We Doing?!" moment you can't afford.
Segment Breakdown
Marching Arts News
WGI Announces Mandatory 2027 Housing Policy
Source: WGI.org
Starting in the 2027 season, all groups attending WGI World Championships must use the official WGI Housing Service.
The policy is designed to ensure safe accommodations and provide 24/7 travel agent support for ensembles.
"WGI just announced that they have a new housing policy for World Championships starting in twenty twenty seven. It's basically a stay-to-play model."
The Debate Over AI in Show Design
Source: On A Water Break Blog
The panel discusses the ethics of using AI to generate uniform concepts, floor designs, and musical arrangements.
Concerns were raised about the loss of the "human element" and the potential for copyright issues in creative designs.
"What are we doing over relying on AI to do our shows and our uniforms? It takes the heart out of the creative process."
Rising Costs of Drum Corps Tuition
Source: BlueDevils.org
Tuition for top-tier World Class corps like the Blue Devils and Carolina Crown is now exceeding $5,000–$6,000 for the summer.
The panel explores how these costs impact accessibility and the long-term sustainability of the activity.
"Tuition is hitting five, six thousand dollars. We have to talk about how we keep this activity reachable for the average student."
60-Second Tech Block
Topic: Post-Rehearsal Recovery
Skipping the cool-down stretch leads to increased injury risk and prolonged muscle soreness.
Effective recovery starts the moment the last rep ends, focusing on static stretching and hydration.
"Stop skipping the post rehearsal stretch. Your body needs that time to reset so you can actually perform the next day."
Water We Doing?!
Whitney — Criticizing the lack of "why" in instruction; staff often tell students what to fix without explaining the underlying technique.
Sadie — Addressing the habit of "ghosting" choreography; performers need to commit to the movement even in early learning stages to build muscle memory.
"What are we doing just giving feedback without the 'why'? If the student doesn't understand the mechanic, they can't actually fix it for the long term."
Gush & Go
Jeremy — Shouting out the Drum Corps Today Instagram for keeping fans updated with show announcements and news.
Sadie — Gushing over the chance to join the OAWB team and share her years of experience with the community.
"I'm just so happy to be part of this team. It's my birthday week and being here talking marching arts is the best gift."
Guard Closet
This episode is presented on Guard Closet — your home for marching arts consignment, design help, microsites, gifts, and in-stock essentials.
FAQ (Quick Answers for Marching Arts People)
When does the new WGI housing policy start?
Answer: The mandatory housing policy begins with the 2027 World Championships season.
"WGI just announced that they have a new housing policy for World Championships starting in twenty twenty seven."
What is the "Stay to Play" model in WGI?
Answer: It requires participating groups to use the WGI Housing Service for their overnight accommodations during World Championships.
"Basically what they're doing is they're requiring groups... to use the WGI housing service for their overnight accommodations."
Is AI being used in marching arts design?
Answer: Yes, it is becoming a debated tool for creating uniform concepts and show themes, though many designers worry about its impact on original creativity.
"what are we doing over relying on AI to do our shows and our uniforms?"
How much does it cost to march a World Class drum corps in 2025/2026?
Answer: Tuition and fees for many top corps are currently ranging between $5,000 and $6,200 per season.
"Tuition is hitting five, six thousand dollars."
Why is stretching after rehearsal important?
Answer: It helps prevent injuries and ensures that performers can recover quickly for the next rehearsal block.
"Stop skipping the post rehearsal stretch... your body needs that time to reset."
What is the benefit of the WGI Housing Service?
Answer: It aims to simplify the housing process for directors and ensure that all members have safe, vetted accommodations.
"It's they're intending it to simplify the housing process for directors, provide consistent travel support and ensure safe and appropriate overnight accommodations."
Listen Now
Stay in the know!
