Open Class corps have done well throughout the decades of Drum Corps International, including when they were known as Class A/A-60 or Division II/III. It’s common for Open Class corps to make the Top 25, which now includes DCI World Class Semifinalist status. One of those corps last season was the Columbians
In their first trip to DCI World Championships since returning to the field in 2013, the Columbians not only finished fourth in Open Class, they doubled Washington state’s representation in the Top 25 for the first time since 1987 (Marauders and Spartans). Talk about facing everything and rising. What was especially impressive for me was that the Columbians field TWENTY powerful mellophones!
The Columbians are coming back to Indianapolis this season. Can they medal in Open Class? Can they return to World Class Semifinals, if not improve on their placement? Will I get to see them live at least once this season? Actually, I need to check the schedule on that last one, but I hope so!
CORRECTIONS: Per DCP user cixelsyd, the Marauders and Spartans both made the DCI Top 25 in 1987.
Per Facebook user Doug Peck, the original Colombians attended the 1973 DCI World Championships in Whitewater, Wisconsin
This was a great performance from the Columbians. Great example of a drum corps staying within their financial means for a few years before making the tirp to Indy. Hope to see them for many years to come.
It was an incredible performance and spoke to the depth of Open Class. I’m really excited to see them again this season.