One sun-drenched July afternoon, I find myself tracing the invisible outlines of a corps in transformation. Unspecified, a name etched in the annals of the Fantasy Marching Arts (FMA) tour, is undergoing a metamorphosis. Transitioning to Division 2, they now rehearse their hearts out, their eyes on the prize that is their Season 114 debut performance on July 5th at the Calcium Competition.

Chris Rohn, Corps Director, seems to be conducting an orchestra of motion. Under his baton, Unspecified is more than a group of musicians – they are an emblem of unity, a cohesive entity fueled by the rhythmic pulses of music and a shared passion for performance. "We are trying to capture the sublime," says Rohn, an enigmatic statement that resonates as I witness their intense rehearsal.

Last season's Division 2 statistics unfold a narrative of familiar victors – South Star, Lonestar Regiment, Star of Nevada – reigning supreme. This season, however, an element of uncertainty hangs in the air, a cloud of thrilling suspense as Unspecified enters the Division 2 fray.

On the sidelines, the members feast on a cornucopia of gourmet dishes prepared by local chefs, a delightful blend of nutrition and culinary artistry. From tender morsels of roast chicken to the subtly-sweet finish of chocolate lava cake, the menu changes, mirroring the locales they traverse and the cultures they explore. It's a smorgasbord of sustenance that ensures they remain healthy and ready for the challenges ahead.

The logistics of their tour are an ode to luxury. Reclining seats, plush and comfortable, line the interior of their coaches. Accommodations reflect the same ethos, providing ample room for rest and rejuvenation, ensuring the artists are at their best for each performance.

Online, fan forums hum with predictions and hopeful conjectures. Unspecified's leap to Division 2 has generated a fresh wave of intrigue, a flurry of speculation about their potential to upset the established order. As Megan Anderson, an FMA devotee, aptly observes, "Unspecified's move to Division 2 is a game-changer. They are a team known for their precision and I believe they have the ability to shake up the rankings this season."

Looking ahead, their tour schedule reveals a mix of prestigious competitions – Johnsonville Drum Corps Competition, Tournament of the Pac-West IX, Box 6 Championships – each a stepping stone on their journey to a triumphant season finale.

From what I observe, Unspecified is a corps enmeshed in a perpetual dance of progress. Their diligent rehearsals, the care they show in their dietary choices, the thought given to their travel and accommodations – it all tells a story of passion, discipline, and an unwavering pursuit of excellence. As Rohn proclaims, "We are here to create an impact that lingers, an echo that lasts long after the last note has faded."

In its essence, Unspecified's journey this season captures the spirit of the FMA tour. A testament to the power of unity and the magic of performance, their story paints a vivid tableau – a compelling display of dedication and resilience that promises an unforgettable season of FMA.

Has a Div 2 group ever placed first overall? We may see it happen this season, lol

Nice write up. You should write a book.

Black Gold invites some friendly competition in DII, and wishes Unspecified the best this season! We look forward to seeing you on tour.

As the sun set on July 5, 2023, the air at the Calcium Competition still vibrated with the echoes of Unspecified's debut performance in Division 2. While the evening bore witness to performances from teams like the St. Louis Starriders, Knoxville Knights, and Hobbiton Drum and Bugle Corps, it was Unspecified that ignited conversations around the event, despite finishing third.

Emerging from the rigorous pre-season rehearsals, the corps produced a performance characterized by a vibrant blend of winds, percussion, and guard, scoring a total of 61.770. Though lower than the leading Calcium Crusaders, their performance left an undeniable impact.

"Sure, we may not have topped the charts, but we brought our passion to the field, and that's a win for us," said Unspecified's drum major, an assertion that resonated among other members. The sense of accomplishment, tinged with the thrill of anticipation for future performances, was palpable among them.

The judges were not far behind in acknowledging Unspecified's potential. "They have a unique harmony," commented one. Another observed, "They bring a different cadence to Division 2, one that has the potential to evolve into something spectacular."

And yet, there's room for growth. Precision is key, and Unspecified, while showing immense promise, must further synchronize their rhythm to elevate their performance. "Working on the consistency of ensemble sound will enhance their overall presentation," one judge suggested.

Unspecified's debut has placed them ninth in the overall Division 2 standings, a position that leaves room for improvement and growth. But as Chris Rohn, Corps Director, puts it, "This is just the beginning. Our narrative in Division 2 is just unfolding."

Unspecified is not a corps to rest on its laurels. As they refocus and regroup for their next performance at the Bearcat Drum Corps Festival on July 6th, they have an opportunity to turn feedback into fuel for an improved performance.

They will share the stage with strong contenders like the 86th Regiment, Johnsonville Drum & Bugle Corps, and White Gold. This upcoming event, hosting an expected audience of 1,135 out of 1,500, promises to be a significant milestone in Unspecified's journey.

Unspecified's debut was a testament to their spirit and tenacity, but as any corps knows, the journey to the top is a symphony composed of highs and lows. But if the passion I saw at the Calcium Competition is any indication, they are a corps ready to rise. Unspecified's journey in Division 2 is only just beginning, but their sights are set on an end filled with crescendos.

On a sweltering July 6 evening, the sun cast long shadows over the Bearcat Drum Corps Festival grounds. The Unspecified Drum and Bugle Corps had just returned from their performance, landing third with a score of 62.995.

I was there as the Corps tuned their instruments in the final rehearsal. The sweat, the focus, the determination were all palpable. They knew the evening could be a decisive moment. Their performance—an intricate tapestry of winds, percussion, and guard work—exhibited an improvement from the Calcium Competition just a day prior. And it didn’t go unnoticed.

"The winds section displayed good precision and timing," commented one of the judges, while another highlighted the potential in the percussion ensemble, calling it "vibrant and energetic." The guard also earned praises for their fluidity. But they didn't deny the need for improvement: "The ensemble needs to focus on increasing the uniformity of their performance," a judge suggested.

The crowd seemed to agree. Claps and cheers punctuated the air, a melodic chorus harmonizing with Unspecified's notes. One spectator, an elderly man with a love for drum corps since his youth, remarked, "I love their spirit. They've got this energy, you know. It’s raw but promising."

Post-performance, as the final scores were announced, the corps members huddled together, sharing snacks—fresh fruits and granola bars, a tradition for post-performance nourishment. The announcement of their score was met with a flurry of reactions—cheers at the improvement, acknowledgment of the ground still to be covered, and an unspoken promise to strive for more.

Currently standing at the 12th position in the Division 2 overall standings, Unspecified’s journey is far from over. Next, they're headed to the Indiana Drum Corps Showdown V on July 9th, expecting to face formidable competitors like Echo, Screaming Eagles, and The Kirk’s.

As for what lies ahead, the corps' staff is already planning. “We’re aiming to tighten up the visuals, especially in the guard section, and synchronize our movements better," shared the corps' Visual Caption Head. "Every rehearsal from now is about refining our performance.” When asked about a target score for the upcoming performance, they added, “We’re aiming for an increase, to break into the upper 60s. But more than scores, it’s about learning and improving, and we are on the right path.”

Riding on the wave of their improved performance, Unspecified is growing stronger, note by note, performance by performance. The Indiana Drum Corps Showdown V will be their next big test, and as they fine-tune their act over the coming days, the crescendo continues for this promising corps. Unspecified may still be finding its melody in Division 2, but they’re composing it with an unmistakable passion that is hard to ignore. And as anyone in the world of drum and bugle corps will tell you, passion, often, is the prelude to greatness.

July 9th, 2023, marked another milestone in Unspecified's Drum and Bugle Corps journey. Taking the field at the Indiana Drum Corps Showdown, Unspecified delivered a performance that left a lasting impression, securing the second place with a score of 66.415.

As the sun rose over the showground, Unspecified's rehearsal echoed with the hum of focused determination. The percussion was seamless, the winds delivered crisp notes, and the guard displayed an intricate synergy. The hard work from their last practice was evident. Their visual caption head had promised to tighten up the visuals, and the result was evident in their perfectly synchronized movements.

Before the competition, the corps fueled up with a hearty dinner—grilled chicken, mashed potatoes, and a medley of vegetables. Healthy, balanced, and a nod to their dedication beyond the field.

Their performance was a harmonious amalgamation of well-coordinated winds, percussion, and guard work. One judge noted, "Unspecified has shown marked improvement, especially in the visual aspects. Their guard has become significantly more coordinated, and the corps as a whole displays a strong understanding of spatial awareness and synchronicity."

The crowd echoed the judges' sentiments. A group of teenagers attending their first Drum Corps Showdown were impressed. "Unspecified was amazing! They really know how to put on a show. Their energy was infectious," one said, visibly excited.

When the scores were announced, the corps gathered to celebrate their achievement, indulging in their traditional snack of fresh fruits and granola bars. The atmosphere was a mix of joy, relief, and anticipation of what lay ahead. There was a noticeable sense of accomplishment - they had reached their target score and showed clear improvement, yet a shared understanding lingered that the journey was far from over.

The corps will be travelling overnight to their next performance - Sounds of Gold, hosted by White Gold on July 10th. Up against formidable competitors, Unspecified is not resting on its laurels.

Speaking about the focus for the next rehearsal, the Percussion Caption Head noted, “The percussion ensemble is getting stronger, but we still need to enhance our dynamics. The focus will be on refining our individual technique while improving the ensemble sound. We want to give the audience a performance they can feel as well as hear.”

When asked about a target score for the next performance, they optimistically replied, “Our goal is to continue improving. We're aiming to break into the upper 60s, ideally around 67. But again, it's not just about the score. It's about delivering a performance that moves the audience and makes us proud.”

As Unspecified moves to the next stage of their journey, one thing is clear - this corps is not just aiming for a high score, they are seeking to make a lasting impact. Their quest for self-improvement, their commitment to their craft, and their undying spirit are all indicators of a promising future. As they tune their drums for the Sounds of Gold, one can't help but anticipate a performance that lives up to their name.

July 10th, 2023, at Sounds of Gold, Unspecified took their performance to new heights. They broke into the upper 60s with a score of 67.545, meeting their target and securing the fifth place.

With a morning rehearsal at the crack of dawn, the energy was palpable. The focus was on dynamics, a direct result of the previous day's comments from the Percussion Caption Head. The corps took it to heart, with percussionists fine-tuning their performances, achieving a depth of sound that resonated through the field.

The corps' dinner was a nourishing meal of baked salmon, quinoa, and a colorful array of roasted vegetables. It was a meal filled with the kind of energy needed for the impending performance - wholesome and balanced.

The performance itself was a crescendo of intensity, each section pushing beyond their previous limits. The judges noticed this marked improvement, one commenting, "Unspecified has taken our feedback seriously. The dynamics of their percussion section has significantly improved, adding an engaging layer to their performance."

The audience echoed the sentiment. A regular attendee commented, "Unspecified has grown so much over this season. I'm always eager to see what they bring to the table. Their improved dynamics made a world of difference today."

After the final scores were announced, the corps celebrated their achievement with a new snack: delectable mini blueberry muffins, a sweet treat echoing their sweet victory. The corps cheered in triumph as they savored this reward, proud of the progress they had made.

The journey to their next performance - Showdown in Japan XI, hosted by Kanpeki-sa on July 11th, begins tonight. They will be traveling by bus to the nearest airport, and from there, they'll fly directly to Japan. It will be a long journey, but the excitement of their first international show is keeping spirits high.

Speaking about their focus for the next rehearsal, the Visual Caption Head shared, "We'll be focusing on strengthening our overall visual performance. The goal is to be as expressive as possible while maintaining the precision and uniformity that we've worked so hard to achieve."

As for a target score at the next performance, they stated, "We're looking to maintain our momentum and score around 68. But more than that, we want to make our first international performance memorable, both for us and the audience."

Unspecified continues to push their limits and aim higher, breaking barriers and setting new standards for themselves. As they prepare for their first international performance, they do so with the determination and spirit that has brought them this far. It will undoubtedly be a performance to remember.

July 11, 2023. The stadium reverberated with a singular, intense note, punctuated by the collective inhale and exhale of the performers on the field. Today, we find ourselves in the midst of Showdown in Japan XI, one of the most significant events in the Fantasy Marching Arts calendar. Standing apart from the galaxy of performing groups is a singular entity: Unspecified.

Bearing the hallmark of an unsung symphony, Unspecified has spent their day refining, rehearsing, and reimagining their performance. The morning rehearsal was akin to a ballet of discipline and precision. "Our focus today lies on expressiveness, precision, uniformity," the Visual Caption Head had commented. And indeed, every member of Unspecified conveyed a potent dedication to these words. Their determination was a tangible entity, pulsating in every move they made and every note they played.

As the rehearsal gave way to a well-deserved break, the corps savored a sumptuous dinner of sushi and miso soup. The juxtaposition of rigorous American performance artistry and traditional Japanese culinary indulgence provided a fascinating cultural mosaic. The essence of Japanese culture seeped into the corps' senses as they enjoyed every morsel of their meal.

The culmination of their day's labor was a performance that was both a feast for the eyes and a symphony for the ears. Unspecified's transformation from a disciplined rehearsal to an effortless performance was awe-inspiring. One judge remarked, "Their commitment to improving their visual performance has paid off. I see growth, I see a blooming potential."

Their resonance extended beyond the judges to the very core of the spectators. A first-time audience member exclaimed, "The coordination and synchronization were outstanding. I am thoroughly impressed and look forward to their future performances."

In the aftermath of their performance, the corps engaged in a tradition of celebration as sweet as their success. Taiyaki, a fish-shaped cake filled with red bean paste, symbolized the end of a memorable day. This little indulgence served as a fitting epitaph to their efforts and achievements.

With their next performance slated for the Silver City Invitational, Unspecified prepares for a transition from the vibrant cultural tapestry of Japan to the familiar shores of home. The journey back is more than just a geographical transition; it is a chance to rest, recharge and refocus.

In a quiet moment amidst the rush of the post-performance, the Brass Caption Head shared a glimpse of their future plans. "Our sound needs to match our visual excellence. That's our next focus," he revealed. There was an unmistakable sense of optimism when asked about their target for the upcoming event, "A score of 69 is what we're eyeing. With our current momentum and commitment, it is well within our reach."

So continues the saga of Unspecified, a testimony to the spirit of perseverance and passion. Their narrative extends beyond the scores, beyond the performances. It lies in their growth, their journey, and their relentless pursuit of excellence. As they chart their course for the Silver City Invitational, one can't help but anticipate another captivating chapter in their unfolding story.

Silver City, July 13, 2023. The arid winds carried the distinctive sounds of marching drums and brass, bringing the narrative of Unspecified to the heart of the Land of Enchantment. The Silver City Invitational, hosted by the esteemed Silver Sage Vanguard, was a carnival of discipline, precision, and artistry, with 30 groups from across the nation vying for the top spots.

From the early hours of the day, the stadium was alive with the rumble of percussion and the melodies of brass. Unspecified's rehearsal was a ballet of controlled chaos, as performers repeated moves and refined notes, driven by the relentless pursuit of perfection. Despite their sixth-place finish at Showdown in Japan, the corps radiated an aura of ambition and tenacity.

"We are improving with each performance," the Corps Director affirmed, eyes never leaving his charges as they meticulously rehearsed their routine. "Our goal is to ensure the uniformity of sound aligns with our visual excellence. Today, we are looking to reach a score of 72. It’s ambitious, but well within our grasp."

As the midday sun eased its grip, the corps members broke for a hearty dinner of green chile stew. The hearty flavors symbolized the fusion of cultures and histories that Unspecified has experienced on their journey.

The Silver City Invitational began in earnest as the sun set, leaving behind a cool night perfect for the spectacle that was about to unfold. Unspecified's performance was a masterclass in controlled energy, a harmonious blend of sound and movement. The synchronicity between the corps members, their instruments, and their environment was nothing short of breathtaking. The audience erupted into cheers, their approval echoing around the stadium.

Yet, their closest competitors, Star of Nevada and Echo, proved to be formidable adversaries. Both corps were noted for their own unique interpretations of the marching arts. The crowd responded positively to their performances as well, making the competition neck and neck.

"Unspecified showed an improvement in their sound. There’s a maturity in their performance that wasn’t as noticeable before. They are in a good position to challenge their competitors," one of the judges commented after the scores were announced.

Despite their commendable efforts, Unspecified fell slightly short of their ambitious goal, finishing sixth with a score of 70.770. The corps took the results in stride, their spirits undampened. The members shared a snack of biscochitos, sweet anise-flavored cookies that crumbled pleasantly with each bite, their sugary warmth providing some comfort to the cold night air.

The corps will now make their way to the Seawolves Invitational. As the anticipation for the next performance builds, the corps members understand that there is no rest for the passionate. With every performance, they strive to ascend to new heights. "Our focus for the upcoming event," the Brass Caption Head revealed, "will be to increase our overall effect scores. We’re not just aiming to please the audience, but to leave a lasting impression on them and the judges."

Unspecified’s journey is not just about the scores or the competition. It is a testament to the endurance of the human spirit and the determination to constantly strive for excellence. Their saga continues as they aim for a score of 72 at the next performance on July 15th. The spirit of Unspecified remains undeterred, echoing in the music they create and the hearts they inspire.

As the sun began its slow climb in the sky, the air buzzed with an anticipatory energy, an unspoken promise of the upcoming show. The Unspecified corps, a group hailing from the UNSP-C league, were diligently running their drills at their temporary training ground near the competition field, readying themselves for the forthcoming event: the Golden Shock Open.

Rehearsal was an elaborate dance, filled with synchronized steps and melodious harmonies, punctuated by the crisp rhythms of percussion instruments. An air of seriousness enveloped the corps as they carried out their motions, refining the details of their performance with pinpoint accuracy. Rehearsal ran through the morning and well into the afternoon, with only a short break for lunch.

As the corps broke for dinner, there was a stark contrast in the atmosphere. The intensity of the day gave way to an air of relaxation as they dined on locally sourced seafood, a specialty of the region. Plates brimmed with lobster rolls and clam chowder, the smell wafting through the air, signaling the close of a demanding day.

At the competition, Unspecified performed admirably, maintaining their spot in the overall top five with a score of 72.870, an improvement from their previous outing. Their closest competitors were Star of Nevada and Echo, scoring 73.560 and 72.860 respectively.

Throughout their performance, the audience was riveted, their cheers and applause amplifying the corps' energy. The judges, too, were impressed, their scribbles on notepads becoming increasingly feverish with each passing minute. One judge was overheard exclaiming, "They've certainly upped their game since the last competition."

Following the announcement of scores, the corps indulged in a local delicacy - apple cider doughnuts - as they celebrated their increased standing. The dessert, sweet and comforting, was a well-deserved treat for their hard work.

Traveling in style, the corps boarded a luxury coach bus to journey to their next performance, equipped with plush seats, ambient lighting, and a full entertainment system to keep spirits high during transit.

The focus for the upcoming rehearsals, according to one of the staff members, is to improve their Visual Performance scores. "Our music is on point," stated the visual caption head. "Now, we need to ensure that the visuals match the level of our music."

As the Unspecified corps readies themselves for the Golden Shock Open, they'll be aiming for a target score of 73.500. The upcoming competition promises to be an exciting event, a stage upon which the corps will continue to showcase their dedication, talent, and resilience.