Drum Corps Announces Reorganization and Strategic Changes

Manchester, NH, April 16, 2024—The Muchachos Drum & Bugle Corps, a nonprofit organization dedicated to music and marching arts education in Manchester and surrounding communities, convened a crucial meeting on November 12th, 2023, to address the Corps' challenges stemming from a decline in support and interest. Following extensive consideration, the organization's Board of Directors has unveiled its initial reorganization plan designed to revitalize its operations and ensure a sustainable future.

Key highlights of the reorganization include:

1. Leadership Overhaul: Under the stewardship of a predominantly new and expanded Board of Directors, the new organization is embarking on a strategic realignment of its mission, vision, and values. This introspective process aims to acknowledge the evolving landscape of our activities and the imperative to adapt accordingly.

2. Board Enhancement: The Board of Directors is actively conducting a needs assessment to identify potential candidates for additional board positions. By bolstering its leadership team, the new organization seeks to fortify its foundation and better serve its mission.

3. Ensemble Retirement: Regrettably, the Muchachos Drum & Bugle Corps will be retiring, and its participation in upcoming Drum Corps International (DCI) events this summer will cease. This decision, though difficult, reflects the new organization's commitment to aligning its resources with its strategic priorities.

4. Legacy Preservation: The Muchachos' digital presence, including its website and social media channels, will be repurposed to honor the rich legacies of both the former Boys Club Drum & Bugle Corps and the cherished Alumni corps. These entities have been integral parts of the cultural fabric of Manchester since 1960.

5. Transitionary Ensemble: Recognizing the importance of continuity for current members, the Board of Directors will support a small performing ensemble in 2024. This temporary measure will enable existing participants to continue their engagement in the performing arts while the organization charts a new course for 2025 and beyond.

"We are committed to charting a sustainable and vibrant path forward for the revitalized organization," said Judy Aikens, Board President. "While change is never easy, we believe these strategic initiatives will position us to better serve our community and fulfill our mission for generations to come."

Stay tuned for further updates as the organization enters this transformative phase of its journey. For more information, please visit muchachos.org or follow us on Facebook.

Contact
Manchester Muchachos
muchachos@muchachos.org

Muchachos Drum and Bugle Corps

The Muchachos is a 501(c)(3) non-profit educational organization based in Manchester, New Hampshire. An all-age corps, membership consists of both youth and adults with a mixture of seasoned performers and individuals new to the activity. As a community-based organization, performers come from all over Southern New Hampshire including Manchester and the surrounding cities and towns as well as from locations in Massachusetts and Maine.

The organization's priority is to teach musical proficiency and marching arts to its members through an ongoing, in-group instructional program. Members are provided opportunities to demonstrate the learning experience through a number of parades and exhibition performances throughout the year.

Founded in 1960 as the Manchester Boys Club Drum and Bugle Corps, the Corps became the Muchachos Jr. Drum and Bugle Corps in 1963 and remained a respected competitive junior corps through the 1960s, '70s, and '80s until going inactive in 1986. Read more about the history of the Manchester Muchachos.