LISLE, Ill. (WLS) — A local drum and bugle corps is making Chicago Proud, continuing a long legacy of performing arts around the nation.
The Cavaliers were back in town ahead of their home show at Benedictine University in Lisle, Illinois.
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So much history comes with the Cavaliers Drum and Bugle Corps and their 77 years of dominance in performances across the country.
Known as the “Green Machine,” they participated in practice Friday before Saturday’s performance at Benedictine University. It’s a brotherhood that provides lifelong guidance.
The beat of a drum, the melody of a horn line, and the elegant motion of the color guard are just a few of the special performances by the Cavaliers, a drum and bugle corps with a rich history of cultivating young men through their passion.
Personal accountability, time management, just an intrinsic work ethic you cannot get anywhere else.
Will Collavitti, drum major
Originally established as a Boy Scout troop in 1948 by Don Warren, it now continues that legacy with their performing arts on a summer tour nationwide.
“We really focus on not just the craft of marching acts of drum core ok moving and playing but developing them as young people and building strengths that will serve them for their lifetime,” director Daniel Belcher said.
The Cavaliers are in the beginning of their summer tour, grinding through these hot summer days with rehearsals that last for hours.
“It’s exciting we have lots of fun moments, whether it’s on the bus laughing as a color guard or on the field, getting through the hard moments, pushing through the heat, pushing through the wind and the elements,” color guard member Devin Hairston said.
It’s all about the details as they prepare for big performances.
“All the alumni coming out to support us 77 years,” marimba player Haydn Veith said. “That’s so many alumni, and they’re always willing to pour back into us, so it’s a big deal for us we’re excited.”
The corps is made up of 160 young men from all around the United States who have to audition to be a part of the group. They make more than 20 stops across the country before competing at Drum Corps International World Championship Finals in Indianapolis in August. With that comes some fun along the way in the brotherhood.
“I’m out here with my friends, and we’re just working really hard, and it’s fraternal,” horn player Kenny Hunter said. “So it’s almost like a frat party, but just the entire summer.”
Once the young men pass 21 years old, they age out of the corps, but they take lifelong lessons with them.
“Personal accountability, time management, just an intrinsic work ethic you cannot get anywhere else,” drum major Will Collavitti said.
The guys are hyped up for Saturday’s performance in front of all the alumni. It will begin at 6 p.m. at Benedictine university.
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