Rushville Consolidated High School sophomore Parker Wicker was recently offered a contract with the Drum Corps International (DCI) group legends – Drum and Bugle Corps.
The DCI is considered to be one of the top professional leagues for marching bands and marching sports in the United States. The Legends Drum Corps is in the "Open Class," which is just a step below “World Class.” The age limit is 16 for the “Open Class” and is a training ground for high school students wishing to pursue a future with the top college music programs. Wicker's dream is to march for a "World Class" Drum Corps such as the Bluecoats, Phantom Regiment or Carolina Crown, before he ages out at 22. Parker has a very supportive family that has invested much time and resources to allow him to pursue this opportunity.
Wicker has displayed an amazing work ethic and desire to achieve, according to RCHS Director of Bands T.R. Campbell. Campbell also had this to say about Wicker. “Parker is among the few sophomores that I've seen selected. He is at an added disadvantage since our RCHS band does not compete in competitive marching band. Many of the physical techniques used in DCI marching are not used here at RCHS in our halftime shows for football season. He has taken it upon himself to learn many of these skills and now will have the opportunity to learn them firsthand with the Legends.”
The Legends Drum Corp season tour begins July 1. If Wicker's Corp can make finals, they are held in Indianapolis at Lucas Oil Stadium, the week of Aug. 8 - 13. If Wicker accepts the contract, he will be playing Baritone (or Euphonium) for the Legends this summer. Wicker has worked very hard for this opportunity, especially these past two years. Parker has practiced music, marching techniques and even dance techniques to prepare himself. Recently he has put together audition material, both video and in person, for multiple drum corps.