Blue Devils C

Concord, CA · DRUMCORPS.NET PROFILE

Concord, California · DCI Open Class directory · Ages 14–17 in current program description ·

Blue Devils C is BD Performing Arts’ Northern California program for high-school-age performers building the skills for more advanced drum corps. Its current program page describes an educational experience for ages 14 to 17. Although older accounts of C often emphasize very young beginners, prospective families should use the organization’s current age and experience guidance. The program is distinct from Blue Devils A and B, with its own instruction and California performance focus. Current overview.

History and place in the organization

BD Performing Arts traces its foundation to 1957. The organizational history describes the establishment of a younger C bugle corps in 1973, when the junior drum-and-bell ensemble was converted into B. This makes 1957 a parent-organization date, not a simple claim that the present C program began in its current form then. The organization’s later program structure includes A, B, C, Special Needs Guard and other ensembles, serving different needs rather than a single compulsory progression. Organizational history.

Who the program serves today

Successful placement can be evaluated in practical terms: whether a student can attend the local rehearsals, manage academic and school-band obligations, prepare assigned music between camps and travel on the published schedule. Ask how staff assess progress and what happens if the performer needs additional development. Advancement to another ensemble should be discussed through that ensemble’s own audition process.

2026 production: Metallic

Rehearsal and performance pattern

The older parent resource describes local Concord-area rehearsals beginning in October, usually twice weekly, with some Saturday additions in May through July. It describes a June–July California performance season. Those details are valuable background but are not a verified new-season calendar. Use a dated rehearsal schedule to resolve exact days, locations, overnight arrangements and travel expectations before committing. Parent resource page.

Ask specifically about late arrival after school, absences for concerts, meals on long rehearsal days and the pickup policy for minors. A program with a regional performance footprint still requires substantial family coordination. If the tour route or rehearsal location changes, request an updated written calendar rather than relying on a previous member’s experience.

Sources

• C Corps program overview
• Current C registration FAQ
• Older C parent resources
• Organizational history
• BDPA contacts
• Code of conduct and ethics reporting
• Health and wellness
• Participation fees and sponsorship
• Employment
• Ways to support
• 2026 Metallic production

Back to the corps directory