All at BYBA would like to congratulate Beeches members Dan Rivett and Leo Winter-Alsop on securing places to march at Drum Corps International this summer. Both are marching with World Class corps - Dan is marching mellophone with the Bluecoats and Leo is marching baritone with the Mandarins.
Dan, who started marching at Lanesfield aged 9 and is currently their brass tech, said that getting a spot to march with the Bluecoats is "mind-blowing". He added that it has long been a dream of his, saying that "the fact [he] can hopefully make this dream come true is awesome". Lanesfield Corps Director Rob Bolton was quick to express how proud of Dan they all were, commented that Dan has "put so much back into the activity and is a real role model for the younger kids".
This year marks Leo's 11th competitive season in banding (12 if you include the cancelled 2020 season) - over that time he's marched at 37th Kingswood (2010-2015), Cadence (2016-2018) and Beeches (2019-present). When asked how he felt about marching with the Mandarins he said that "it's awesome, I've always wanted to march DCI so to have the opportunity is great".
Beeches Corps Director Andrew Dallison said that everyone at the corps was "so proud and happy" for both Dan and Leo. He added that "they work tirelessly to make sure they are continuously improving and we cannot wait to see them fulfil their dreams".
Dan and Leo take the number of BYBA members marching DCI this summer to 5, joining Jessica Jex (Colourguard, The Academy) of East Coast Elite and Revolution's Megan Spencer (Trumpet, Blue Stars), who were both contracted for 2020 before the season was cancelled, and Lewis Williams (Tuba, Crossmen).
We wish these members, and all the other Brits making the journey to DCI this year, a safe and successful season.