Drum Corps International announces the launch of a collaboration with the Minority Band Directors National Association (MBDNA) designed to provide immersive opportunities for collaboration, learning and growth through the IN STEP Fellowship Initiative.
Drum Corps International’s “IN STEP” program supports the participation of under-represented communities in all facets of DCI, from membership to staff to leadership.
According to Sue Kuehnhold, DCI senior director of ensemble services, “The IN STEP Fellowship is designed to expand the networks of music education professionals, including those who have been traditionally underrepresented within our ranks, providing opportunities to benefit from better understanding the unique attributes of and best practices within the drum corps art form from the inside.”
"We at MBDNA are pleased to partner with Drum Corps International for the DCI IN-Step Fellowship program,” said MBDNA representative Cliff Croomes, Associate Director of Bands at the University of Texas. “It is our sincere belief that representation matters, and this is a great opportunity for our membership to work side by side with some of the top educators and designers in the marching arts."
“It is our hope that by working closely with MBDNA to facilitate these and other collaborative efforts, the exchange of ideas and perspectives will result in the creation of even greater synergy in the years to come,” Kuehnhold added.
Applications are now being accepted from band directors interested in getting involved with the 2024 IN STEP Fellowship Initiative.
As part of the program, applicants selected for participation will be provided with a $1,000 stipend to cover expenses as they join up with a participating corps for a week during their 2024 summer tour. Designed to be an interactive and highly-engaging experience, IN STEP Fellows will work along with professional educators of the selected drum corps to tailor their learning experiences to their specific areas of interest.
After completing a contact form, Drum Corps International staff will follow up with additional information and guidelines for participation in the program. The application deadline is March 1, 2024.