FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Nashua, NH — The Spartans Drum and Bugle Corps is pleased to announce the formation of the “Southwind Legacy Project.” This is an exciting partnership between the Spartans and the leadership of Southwind Drum and Bugle Corps. This groundbreaking initiative is set to create a lasting impact on the world of music education by keeping a new generation of talented musicians engaged by instilling discipline, teamwork, and a passion for excellence while honoring the legacy of the Southwind Drum and Bugle Corps.
Southwind Drum and Bugle Corps was founded in 1980 in Montgomery, Alabama and has operated as a Drum Corps International Open Class member corps. During their 2023 season, they placed third in the Open Class, earning the bronze medal at the DCI Open Class World Championships in Marion, IN. At the conclusion of the season, the Board of Directors made the difficult decision to cease operations due to the high costs of touring.
The Southwind Legacy Project, sponsored by the Spartans, strives to keep the values and memory of Southwind a permanent part of the future. Aspects of the project include the former Director of Southwind will join the Spartans Board of Directors, a scholarship of will be offered to the 2023 members of Southwind, and an invitation to all alumni of Southwind to participate in the Spartans 70th anniversary season in 2025, performing in a possible “Alumni Ensemble.” Also, the Spartans website will include a Southwind Legacy Project page which will include pictures and links to other sites to keep the Southwind history alive.
Many assets of the Southwind Drum and Bugle Corps organization have been donated to the Spartans Drum and Bugle Corps. They have provided the Spartans with a 48’ kitchen trailer fitted as a food truck which will feed the approx. 150 members of the Spartans during the 2024 summer tour. Additionally, Southwind has donated brass equipment and other musical instruments, as well as a 51’ equipment truck which will help the Spartans replace and expand their current vehicle inventory. These donations will help the Spartans expand, grow, and maintain their program for another generation of young musicians.
“We are humbled by Southwind’s generous donation, and we welcome all of Southwind’s members, alumni, and staff to the Spartans family,” said Spartans President Paul LaFlamme. “By creating this project, we hope to keep the Southwind name, mission, and history alive within the Marching Arts activity for years to come.”
For media inquiries, please contact: Paul LaFlamme, President (603) 661-1070
About The Spartans Drum and Bugle Corps
The Spartans Drum and Bugle Corps is a community-based performing arts program in Nashua, New Hampshire. An independent non-profit organization, not affiliated with any school or government organization, the Spartans is one of the most respected and established drum corps organizations in the U.S. The corps was founded in 1955 to keep at-risk youth off the streets. The Spartans is run by a dedicated group of volunteer parents and a professional teaching staff who work in harmony with all members to create and maintain a proud, responsible youth organization.
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As the founder and first director of Southwind 44 years ago this month in Montgomery, AL – I am absolutely thrilled to be affiliated with the Spartans through the Southwind Legacy Project! I look forward to volunteering this summer, as often as possible, to provide assistance to the members and staff wherever needed, to the extent that I am able.