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On A Water Break

On a Water Break Podcast

On A Water Break is a weekly podcast for everyone in the marching arts.

If you’re talking about it at rehearsal, on the bus ride home, or during a water break — we’re probably planning to talk about it on an upcoming episode.

This show is built for performers, instructors, designers, adjudicators, and marching arts enthusiasts who want to stay connected to what’s happening across the activity — without the fluff or the filter.

Each week, our rotating panel of experienced hosts dives into:

  • Marching arts news and major stories shaping the activity
  • Real conversations about band, color guard, drumline, drum corps, twirling, and parade performance
  • Educational insights you can actually use in rehearsal
  • Opinion, accountability, and culture conversations that reflect what people are really dealing with
  • Community highlights and wins worth celebrating

You’ll hear recurring segments like:

  • Marching Arts News — stories that matter, with context and discussion
  • 60 Second Tech Block — focused, practical teaching ideas in under a minute
  • Water We Doing?! — calling out habits, trends, and choices that deserve a second look
  • Gush & Go — quick shoutouts to people, programs, and moments moving the activity forward

On A Water Break isn’t about hot takes for clicks or recycled press releases. It’s about thoughtful conversation, lived experience, and sharing perspectives from people who have marched, taught, designed, judged, and produced at every level of the activity.

Whether you’re in the middle of band camp, winter guard season, drum corps tour, or just missing rehearsal life — this podcast is your place to stay plugged in.

🎧 New episodes release weekly

🌐 Learn more at: https://www.onawaterbreak.com

📺 Watch on YouTube or listen on all major podcast platforms

💧 Your All-Access Pass to the Marching Arts.

🎙️ A Podcast for Marching Arts Enthusiasts — On the Field, In the Stands & Behind the Scenes.

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  • 22 episodes
  • weekly
  • Avg 57 min
  • English

Episodes 22

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  • S4 · E34
    Yesterday · 1 hr 6 min

    Wanda Conway on George Zingali, Color Guard History, Fundamentals & Performer Safety | OAWB S4EP34

    Your All-Access Pass to the Marching Arts. Color guard educator, choreographer and adjudicator Wanda Conway joins Whitney Stone, Sadie Wallace and Jeremy Svoboda / Drum Corps Today for a conversation connecting decades of color guard history to the activity today. Wanda shares stories from growing up near George Zingali, Quasar and the 27th Lancers to teaching the Cavaliers as a teenager, working with the Cadets, teaching marching band in Indonesia, judging across the country and her current work with Onyx. The panel also digs into color guard fundamentals, writing choreography to music and drill, women in marching arts leadership, performer safety, physical preparation and the lifelong friendships built through the activity. Marching Arts News: Southern University's Human Jukebox x Gap; BGSU's 600-member Falcon Marching Band; Barberton's Student Opportunity to Participate Fund; Cody Fry feat. The Blue Devils on “Magic in You.” Chapters: 00:00 Meet Wanda Conway 02:06 Welcome 04:13 Human Jukebox x Gap 05:04 BGSU Hits 600 08:07 Barberton Participation Fund 09:33 Cody Fry x Blue Devils 13:14 Wanda's 32 Count Life Story 17:36 Teaching the Cavaliers 19:17 Teaching in Indonesia 24:17 Career Highlights 26:02 Choreography with Sadie 31:54 Fundamentals Still Matter 34:23 What Are We Doing?! 34:40 Women in Leadership 38:26 Writing to Music and Drill 40:54 Performer Safety 46:11 Physical Preparation 50:11 Gush & Go 54:40 Banana Ball Meets Marching Band 01:04:31 Closing Rehearsal Panel: Whitney Stone @dancerwhit | Sadie Wallace @m.sadiewallace | Jeremy Svoboda / Drum Corps Today @drumcorpstoday Guest: Wanda Conway Presented by Guard Closet. Listen everywhere, explore Marching Arts News, meet the hosts and find more On A Water Break.

  • Thursday · 1 hr 9 min

    Phantom Regiment Alumni Corps: 70 Years, Full-Circle Moments & Finding Home Again | OAWB With

    What happens when Phantom Regiment alumni step back onto the field for the corps’ 70th anniversary? Ricardo Robinson-Shinall talks with Jamison Williams, Dr. Taylor Clements, Nikki Brose and Megan Mbengue about returning to drum corps after years away, what their bodies remembered, how the rehearsal culture felt different as adults, and the emotional payoff of performing at DCI World Championship Semifinals in Lucas Oil Stadium. The group also gets into Water We Doing?!, Gush & Go, electronics, judging technology, alumni costuming, women in leadership and why an alumni corps can feel like finding home again. Guests: Jamison Williams — @titan_of_la Dr. Taylor Clements — @Dr.TClements Nikki Brose — @therealdrumcorpstea Megan Mbengue — @megan_mbengue Host: Ricardo Robinson-Shinall — @ricardorrobinson. Presented by Guard Closet: GuardCloset.com. On A Water Break: Website • Listen everywhere • Join us • YouTube. Related: DCI 2026 Finals recap • DCI Finals Week. CHAPTERS 00:00 Phantom Regiment Turns 70 01:06 Welcome + Meet the Alumni 02:01 32 Count Life Stories 09:20 Sections + Jamison’s Viral Photo 13:52 Why They Said Yes to the Alumni Corps 17:59 First Rehearsal Across Generations 22:26 What Came Back Fast — and What Didn’t 26:41 The First “This Is Phantom” Moment 28:50 Guard Closet Break 31:01 What Phantom Regiment Gave Them 38:45 Back on the Field as Adults 41:28 Rewriting Old Drum Corps Memories 46:23 DCI Semifinals Night at Lucas Oil Stadium 49:53 “Phantom Regiment Is…” 50:59 Water We Doing?! 54:45 Could Technology Make Visual Scoring More Objective? 56:23 Phantomettes, Uniforms & Alumni Corps Costuming 1:00:08 Women at the Decision-Making Table 1:00:49 Gush & Go 1:03:08 Could You March Again? 1:06:16 Ricardo’s Cavaliers Challenge 1:07:21 Guest Socials + Closing

  • S4 · E33
    August 21 · 56 min

    Marching Band Isn’t a Sport? Technique, Band Camp & Marching Arts Culture | OAWB S4EP33

    Your All-Access Pass to the Marching Arts. On this episode of On A Water Break, Jeremy Denzer welcomes Courtney Coffey to the team! Courtney shares her 32 Count Life Story before joining Jeremy and Bill “Woody” Woodward for conversations about the biggest topics happening throughout the marching arts. Courtney shares her journey from Honolulu, Hawaii, to James Madison University, teaching, choreography, and creating Simply Color Guard. In this episode: Is marching band a sport? Why technique and physical preparation matter. Building stronger rehearsal environments. Professionalism and expectations in the marching arts. How marching arts communities support students. Marching Arts News: Trump Administration Declares Brass Instruments a National Security Threat: Classic FM | Why Marching Band Isn't Exactly a Sport: USA Today | McKinney High School Band Dress Code Discussion: WFAA | Menasha Marching Band Finds Comfort and Connection After Tornado: We Are Green Bay 60 Second Tech Block: Courtney Coffey discusses why dance technique, movement fundamentals, and performer preparation create stronger performers. Water We Doing?!: The team discusses skill development, rehearsal expectations, communication, professionalism, and whether physical activity should ever be used as punishment. Gush & Go: Celebrating positive moments, new opportunities, and growth throughout the marching arts community. Referenced Episodes: DCI Finances: Jeff Gill on Drum Corps Costs, Dues & Sustainability | On A Water Break Rehearsal Block featuring Dalton Stout | DCI 2026 Finals: Bluecoats Win, Spirit Returns & Rita Moreno A Podcast for Marching Arts Enthusiasts — On the Field, In the Stands & Behind the Scenes. Find On A Water Break: Website | OAWB Links | Spotify | Apple Podcasts | YouTube | Be A Guest Presented by Guard Closet.

  • August 20 · 50 min

    Punk Rock Irving on Leaving Color Guard, Becoming a Dad & Coming Back to the Activity | OAWB With Irving Lopez

    Punk Rock Irving Lopez is back on On A Water Break. Jackie Brown and Scott Ruiz sit down with Irving for a conversation about leaving color guard, finding himself outside of the activity, becoming a dad, and returning to the marching arts with a new perspective. Irving shares his 32 Count Life Story, from growing up in Los Angeles and discovering performance at an early age to joining color guard at 11, marching Diamante, Santa Clara Vanguard, Blue Devils, and Fantasia, becoming one of the first major color guard creators online, and building a career in entertainment marketing. This conversation goes beyond the performances and viral moments. Irving talks about the Patricia meme, working in WGI media, the pressure of being watched online, mental health, why he stepped away from color guard, and how time away helped him understand who he was beyond the activity. Now Punk Rock Irving is back with new stories to tell — sharing lessons from color guard, adulthood, fatherhood, creativity, and life outside the floor. Featuring: Jackie Brown — @spintronixguard Scott Ruiz — @sdruiz Punk Rock Irving Lopez — @punkrockirving Presented by Guard Closet Your one-stop shop for color guard, marching band, and marching arts gear. Check out the new OAWB website: https://www.onawaterbreak.com/ Read the latest marching arts news: https://www.onawaterbreak.com/news Meet the OAWB hosts: https://www.onawaterbreak.com/hosts Listen everywhere: https://www.onawaterbreak.com/links Follow Punk Rock Irving: Instagram: @punkrockirving A Podcast for Marching Arts Enthusiasts — On the Field, In the Stands & Behind the Scenes. FOLLOW PUNK ROCK IRVING: Instagram: @punkrockirving TikTok: @punkrockirving YouTube: Punk Rock Irving #OnAWaterBreak #ColorGuard #WGI #DCI #MarchingArts

  • S4 · E32
    August 16 · 1 hr 12 min

    DCI 2026 Finals: Bluecoats' Undefeated Title, Spirit Returns, Rita Moreno & Color Guard Drill | OAWB S4EP32

    Your All-Access Pass to the Marching Arts. A Podcast for Marching Arts Enthusiasts — On the Field, In the Stands & Behind the Scenes. Bluecoats finish an undefeated season as the 2026 DCI World Champions, Spirit of Atlanta returns to Finals for the first time since 2013, Carolina Crown wins the Jim Ott Award, and Rita Moreno returns to the DCI broadcast 46 years after her original appearance. Ashlee Amos is joined by Bobbey Biddle and Haley Harrington to recap championship weekend, including Blue Stars' historic sixth-place finish, the DCI All-Age Championship, Cincinnati Tradition's record score and the Phantom Regiment Alumni Corps. They also discuss the construction reshaping downtown Indianapolis and what it could mean for future DCI and BOA visitors. Bobbey takes the 60 Second Tech Block with a practical challenge for every design team: hire a drill writer who understands how the color guard contributes to the full production. The conversation continues with intentional transitions, giving designers room to create, stronger musicality in baton twirling and more collaboration across the performing arts. Panel Ashlee Amos — @famousamossss_ Bobbey Biddle — @bobbeyboy107 Haley Harrington — @h_harrington14 Chapters 00:00 DCI Championship Weekend Highlights 03:47 Welcome to On A Water Break 04:58 Spirit of Atlanta Returns to Finals 08:13 Bluecoats, Crown and the 2026 DCI Results 14:29 DCI All-Age and the Phantom Regiment Alumni Corps 19:08 Downtown Indianapolis Construction 23:54 Rita Moreno Returns to DCI 31:07 Break 33:11 60 Second Tech Block 35:07 Better Drill Design for Color Guard 41:50 Water We Doing?! 42:34 Stop Boxing In Your Drill Writer 46:31 Baton Twirling Needs More Musicality 53:20 More Collaboration Across the Performing Arts 59:22 Gush & Go 01:11:10 Closing Rehearsal Presented by Guard Closet Uniforms, flags, costumes, consignment and design services for the marching arts. GuardCloset.com | @guardcloset Find On A Water Break Website | Listen everywhere | YouTube | Be a guest or join the team Follow @onawaterbreak on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok.

  • August 12 · 29 min

    DCI Finances: Jeff Gill on Drum Corps Costs, Dues & Sustainability | Quick Sip

    Your All-Access Pass to the Marching Arts. A Podcast for Marching Arts Enthusiasts — On the Field, In the Stands & Behind the Scenes. DCI Finances: Jeff Gill on Drum Corps Costs, Dues & Sustainability | Quick Sip Can drum corps keep increasing spending without making the activity less sustainable or less accessible? Trish O’Shea and Ricardo Robinson-Shinall sit down with Jeff Gill, former Cavaliers board member and treasurer, to discuss his “Follow the Money” analysis of publicly available Form 990 filings from DCI corps. Jeff walks through what he believes the data suggests about spending and competitive placement, rising operating costs, member dues, reserves, and the different revenue models behind today’s organizations. He also explains the limits of the available tax data and why it cannot tell us whether props, uniforms, staff, or touring are specifically driving the increase. IN THIS QUICK SIP • Why Jeff started studying drum corps finances • Spending and competitive placement • Rising costs and a shorter DCI tour • Corps with outside revenue engines vs. corps depending more heavily on dues and reserves • Affordability and socioeconomic barriers for performers • Standardized financial reporting and DCI governance • A possible premier/elite-class model • Four reasons the sustainability issue is difficult to address FEATURED Trish O’Shea — @trishdish1102 Ricardo Robinson-Shinall — @ricardorrobinson Jeff Gill — Instagram @jeff.sfo | Facebook jeff.gill.sfo READ JEFF’S ANALYSIS Follow the Money — Part 4: Nobody Owns This Problem Listen everywhere: https://plinkhq.com/i/1653637341?to=page Website: https://www.onawaterbreak.com Follow @onawaterbreak. 00:00 Quick Sip Intro00:23 Meet Jeff Gill + Ricardo Robinson-Shinall01:12 Jeff Gill’s 32 Count Life Story02:49 Why Drum Corps Sustainability Matters04:48 Jeff’s “Follow the Money” Series05:24 Does Spending Predict DCI Placement?08:46 Are Props and Uniforms Really the Problem?12:19 Should DCI Standardize Financial Reporting?14:58 Why Jeff Won’t Use 2026 Results Yet17:18 Two Very Different Drum Corps Financial Models19:15 Are Member Dues Pricing Performers Out?21:10 What Happens Next?23:48 Four Reasons the Problem Doesn’t Get Fixed27:11 Final Takeaways27:55 Where to Find Jeff Gill28:24 Quick Sip Closing

  • S4 · E31
    August 8 · 53 min

    DCI 2026 Finals Week: Bluecoats’ Allentown Record, WGI 2027 Changes, Drum Corps Housing, Heat Safety & Color Guard Choreography | OAWB S4EP31

    Your All-Access Pass to the Marching Arts. A Podcast for Marching Arts Enthusiasts — On the Field, In the Stands & Behind the Scenes. DCI 2026 Finals Week is here. Chris Rutt, Whitney Stone and Jeremy Svoboda from Drum Corps Today break down the final stretch of the drum corps season after DCI East, including Bluecoats tying the Allentown stadium record, the fight for Saturday night, Open Class in Dayton and Phantom Regiment’s 70th Anniversary Alumni Corps. The episode also moves beyond scores: allegations involving the Denver School of the Arts band program lead to a conversation about student safety and rehearsal culture; Music for All names Anne Fennell Senior Director of Education; and WGI’s July Board meeting brings changes for the 2027 Color Guard, Percussion and Winds seasons. In this episode: • Bluecoats ties the DCI East/J. Birney Crum Stadium record at 96.825 • Blue Stars, Madison Scouts, Pacific Crest and the fight around the Top 12 • Student safety and allegations involving Denver School of the Arts band • Anne Fennell joins Music for All as Senior Director of Education • WGI 2027 proposal and championship updates • The Battalion, Gold and Blue Devils B after Open Class Prelims in Dayton • DCI housing sites, rehearsal limits and the All-Age championship schedule • Govenaires prepares for its 100th anniversary in 2027 • Water breaks, heat safety and long walks from warmup lots • Why color guard phrases need more choreography and less trick-to-trick staging • Phantom Regiment’s 70th Anniversary Alumni Corps Panel: Chris Rutt — @wildhornbrass1 Whitney Stone — @dancerwhit Jeremy Svoboda / Drum Corps Today — @drumcorpstoday Presented by Guard Closet Uniforms, flags, costumes, consignment and design services for the marching arts. GuardCloset.com | @guardcloset Find On A Water Break: Website: onawaterbreak.com Listen everywhere: plinkhq.com/i/1653637341?to=page YouTube: @OnAWaterBreak Instagram, Facebook & TikTok: @onawaterbreak Be a guest: onawaterbreakpodcast@gmail.com TIMESTAMPS 00:00 DCI East, Bluecoats, Crown & the Fight for Finals09:58 Welcome to On A Water Break11:51 Denver School of the Arts Band Director Allegations17:00 Music for All Names Anne Fennell Senior Director of Education20:42 WGI Announces 2027 Rules & Championship Changes23:54 Bluecoats Tie the Allentown Stadium Record30:21 Water We Doing?!30:54 DCI Championship Housing & Rehearsal Problems32:48 Jeremy Svoboda on the Govenaires35:23 Govenaires Prepare for Their 100th Anniversary37:13 Give Performers More Water Breaks38:08 Why Are Warmups So Far From the Stadium?41:50 Color Guard Needs Complete Choreography Again44:29 Gush & Go44:44 DCI Open Class, The Battalion & SCV49:13 Getting Ready for DCI Finals Weekend50:14 Phantom Regiment’s 70th Anniversary Alumni Corps51:55 Closing

  • S4 · E30
    August 1 · 53 min

    FloMarching Camera Angles, College Marching Bands & SCV Jump Rope | OAWB S4EP30

    Your All-Access Pass to the Marching Arts. A Podcast for Marching Arts Enthusiasts — On the Field, In the Stands & Behind the Scenes. FloMarching camera angles, college marching bands, DCI drum corps and Santa Clara Vanguard’s jump-rope choreography are on the sidelines this week. Whitney Stone, Ricardo Robinson-Shinall and Sadie Wallace discuss how drum corps broadcasts can better capture the moments designers intend audiences to see. Producer Jeremy Williams joins the conversation with a practical solution: better communication with design teams, show-specific production rundowns and directors who know when the major visual moments are coming. In this episode: • FloMarching camera angles and drum corps broadcast direction • USA TODAY’s Best College Marching Band vote • SCV working with 31-time jump-rope world champion Tori Boggs • J. Birney Crum Stadium expansion funding • Sadie’s original 1982 Garfield Cadets instructor jacket • Why Florida still needs a DCI Tour event • Boston Crusaders’ Building A Champion documentary • Carolina Crown, band camp and the final DCI push This week’s panel: Whitney Stone — @dancerwhit Ricardo Robinson-Shinall — @ricardorrobinson Sadie Wallace — @m.sadiewallace Chapters: 00:00 – Welcome to On A Water Break 00:58 – Meet Whitney, Ricardo and Sadie 06:28 – Previous episode and Blue Devils bus fire recap 08:03 – Marching arts news 08:21 – Best College Marching Band vote 11:23 – J. Birney Crum Stadium funding 15:27 – SCV jump rope with Tori Boggs 20:39 – 60 Second Tech Block 22:56 – Sadie’s 1982 Garfield Cadets jacket 28:05 – Water We Doing?! 28:27 – Stadium logos and field presentation 35:21 – Why Florida needs a DCI event 37:40 – FloMarching camera angles 39:02 – A production-rundown solution 43:51 – Gush & Go 44:09 – Building A Champion 46:00 – The final DCI push and band camp 47:14 – Carolina Crown 48:23 – Behind-the-scenes OAWB shoutout 49:32 – Submission callout 51:19 – Closing rehearsal News & resources: Best College Marching Band vote J. Birney Crum Stadium funding SCV and Tori Boggs Building A Champion Presented by Guard Closet Uniforms, flags, costumes, consignment and design services for the marching arts. guardcloset.com | @guardcloset Find On A Water Break: Website | Listen everywhere | YouTube | All links and guest application Email: onawaterbreakpodcast@gmail.com #OnAWaterBreak #MarchingArts #DCI2026 #DrumCorps #ColorGuard #MarchingBand

  • S4 · E29
    July 27 · 1 hr 17 min

    Fusion Winter Guard Pauses After WGI Championship, Texas Marching Band Heat Rules & Boise Gems | OAWB S4EP29

    Your All-Access Pass to the Marching Arts. Marching band heat safety, Fusion Winter Guard’s pause after winning the 2026 WGI Independent World Championship, and the future of regional DCI Open Class drum corps lead this week’s On A Water Break. Joey Montes III is joined by Nicole Younger, Ricardo Robinson-Shinall, Jeremy Denzer and Haley Harrington to discuss Fusion’s decision to pause beginning with the 2027 season, Boise Gems’ inaugural Open Class campaign, mandatory Wet-Bulb Globe Temperature monitoring for Texas marching bands, the Pepsi National Battle of the Bands moving to AT&T Stadium, marching arts performers at the 2026 MLB All-Star Game and the legacy of Bands of America founder Larry McCormick. In this episode: • Fusion Winter Guard pauses after winning WGI Independent World • Boise Gems completes its first DCI Open Class affiliate season • The case for smaller corps and shorter regional tours • Texas mandates WBGT heat monitoring for marching band activities • HBCU marching bands head to AT&T Stadium in 2027 • Remembering Bands of America founder Larry McCormick • Ricardo’s 60 Second Tech Block: performance is more than a smile • Respecting color guard equipment and putting flags on the pole correctly • Building shows around the performers you actually teach • Making room for rest, recovery and life outside rehearsal Featuring: Joey Montes III — @marchingbymontes Nicole Younger — @o2bnpjs Ricardo Robinson-Shinall — @ricardorrobinson Jeremy Denzer — @jeremydenzer Haley Harrington — @h_harrington14 Presented by Guard Closet Your one-stop shop for color guard, marching band and the marching arts. GuardCloset.com | @guardcloset Find On A Water Break: Website YouTube Listen Everywhere and Find All Links Be a guest: onawaterbreakpodcast@gmail.com Follow @onawaterbreak on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok. A Podcast for Marching Arts Enthusiasts — On the Field, In the Stands & Behind the Scenes. 00:00 Welcome and panel introductions 05:53 Previous episode recap 07:04 HBCU bands and the 2027 National Battle of the Bands 12:23 Texas mandates WBGT monitoring for marching bands 21:54 Boise Gems’ first DCI Open Class season 24:12 The case for smaller corps and regional tours 28:44 Marching arts performers at the MLB All-Star Game 31:52 Remembering Bands of America founder Larry McCormick 35:08 Fusion Winter Guard pauses after winning WGI 40:04 60 Second Tech Block 43:19 Performance is more than a smile 49:46 Water We Doing?! 50:14 Stop carrying rifles by the strap 53:09 Design for the performers you actually have 58:15 Respect your color guard equipment 01:00:07 Please stop mounting flags upside down 01:02:01 Removing stains from white uniforms 01:06:40 Make time for yourself 01:08:45 Gush & Go 01:15:06 Closing rehearsal

  • S4 · E28
    July 17 · 1 hr 36 min

    Marching Arts News: ICE Detention, DCI Debate & Baton Nationals

    Your All-Access Pass to the Marching Arts. A Podcast for Marching Arts Enthusiasts — On the Field, In the Stands & Behind the Scenes. Marching arts news moves fast, and this week the panel takes on two stories reaching well beyond the rehearsal field: the ICE detention of Maria Rosales after a trip to Boston with members of her performing team, and a packed national championship season for baton twirling. Ashlee Amos leads Bill “Woody” Woodward, Bobbey Biddle, Kim Webb and Haley Harrington through the news, a practical 60-Second Tech Block for band directors, and a Water We Doing?! conversation about DCI streaming, ensemble culture, burnout and the way performers are treated online. THIS WEEK’S PANEL Ashlee Amos — @famousamossss_ Bill “Woody” Woodward — @remoking100 Bobbey Biddle — @bobbeyboy107 Kim Webb — @kimpossible413 Haley Harrington — @h_harrington14 IN THE NEWS The detention of Maria Rosales at Boston Logan Airport and what the story means for educators traveling with performers, students who are afraid for their families and adults responsible for keeping young people safe. Inside baton twirling’s national championship season, including the U.S. National Baton Twirling Championships, America’s Youth on Parade, Miss Majorette of America, Grand National competition and international qualification for the Nations Cup, World Championships and Inspiration Cup. 60-SECOND TECH BLOCK Kim Webb explains why singing and humming with your band can improve intonation, listening, intervals, phrasing and musicality. Her starting point is simple: if students cannot hear and sing the phrase, they are not ready to play it correctly. WATER WE DOING?! West Coast DCI shows that begin near bedtime for East Coast viewers. Leaving color guard and percussion outside the full ensemble culture. Educators who never make room for a life beyond marching arts. What the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders documentary gets right about performers as athletes. Adults who criticize performers online for design decisions the performers did not make. GUSH & GO Bobbey celebrates a historic Miss Pennsylvania win for Miss Philadelphia, Haley finds a better way to stay hydrated, and Ashlee previews “Joyride,” her upcoming marching band production. NEWS & RESOURCES ICE detention following a Boston concert trip — The Boston Globe U.S. National Baton Twirling Championships — USTA America’s Youth on Parade 2026 — NBTA PRESENTED BY GUARD CLOSET Your one-stop shop for color guard, marching band and the marching arts. Shop Guard Closet | @guardcloset FIND ON A WATER BREAK Website | Listen Everywhere | All Links | Be a Guest Email: onawaterbreakpodcast@gmail.com Follow @onawaterbreak on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok.

  • S4 · E27
    July 10 · 52 min

    Greg Case on the Blue Devils Bus Fire, DCI Leadership Changes & Canceled Parades

    Your All-Access Pass to the Marching Arts. Blue Devils transportation team member Greg Case gives a firsthand account of the 2026 bus fire, how everyone got to safety, what members lost, and how the Loveland community helped the corps keep moving. Trish O’Shea, Nicole Younger, and Jeremy Williams also cover Brad Furlano’s appointment as DCI’s next CEO, Denise Bonfiglio becoming WGI Color Guard Chief Judge, and the marching bands that found new stages after America 250 parades were canceled by extreme heat. Then Greg takes the 60 Second Tech Block with a lesson on driving a sleeper bus while an entire support team is trying to sleep. In this episode: The Blue Devils bus fire and community response Drum corps transportation, tour logistics, and driver responsibility Brad Furlano’s appointment as DCI’s next CEO Denise Bonfiglio’s appointment as WGI Color Guard Chief Judge Philadelphia and Washington, D.C. parade cancellations Friends of DCI seating, FloMarching access, and weather backup plans 60 Second Tech Block: the art of driving a drum corps sleeper bus Chapters: 00:00 Welcome • 02:07 Meet Greg Case • 04:37 Blue Devils bus fire • 11:51 Brad Furlano and DCI • 15:20 Denise Bonfiglio and WGI • 17:52 America 250 parade cancellations • 25:58 60 Second Tech Block • 31:57 Water We Doing?! • 42:58 Gush & Go • 50:22 Closing Guest and panel: Greg Case — YouTube @gregcase221 | TikTok @gregcase75 Trish O’Shea — @trishdish1102 Nicole Younger — @o2binpjs Jeremy Williams — @guardcloset News sources: Blue Devils incident update • 9NEWS community coverage • DCI appoints Brad Furlano • WGI appoints Denise Bonfiglio • Philadelphia parade coverage • Bands perform after the cancellation • Farmington High School finds a new stage • Washington, D.C. parade cancellation Related episode: OAWB S4EP24: Blue Devils Bus Fire, WGI 2027 Calendar, DCI Houston Move & Marching Band Cuts Sponsored by Guard Closet: New and consignment color guard, winter guard, and marching band gear at GuardCloset.com and @guardcloset. Find On A Water Break: Website • Listen Everywhere • YouTube • Instagram, Facebook & TikTok: @onawaterbreak • Be a guest • onawaterbreakpodcast@gmail.com

  • S4 · E26
    July 4 · 56 min

    Drum Corps History, DCI Ticket Prices & 2026 Tour Model Debate | OAWB S4EP25

    Your All-Access Pass to the Marching Arts. A Podcast for Marching Arts Enthusiasts — On the Field, In the Stands & Behind the Scenes. Color guard, winter guard, marching band, drum corps, DCI 2026, and WGI are all on deck this week. Whitney Stone is joined by Sadie Wallace, Jeremy Svoboda from Drum Corps Today, and special guest P.A. Kelly / Patti Ann Rego for a Water Break Weekly episode connecting old-school drum corps history to the 2026 season. P.A. shares stories from the Bronx, Blessed Sacrament, Santa Clara Vanguard, the Blue Devils, rifle lines, inspection lines, the Bottle Dance, Blue Devils “Betties,” and the generational shift from early drum corps to today’s DCI and WGI world. The panel also talks Big, Loud & Live, FloMarching, DCI West, River City Rhapsody, the 2026 MLB All-Star Game field cast opportunity in Philadelphia, first DCI scores, ticket prices, the tour model, and the peak Backyard Betty conversation. Segments: Guest Spotlight: P.A. Kelly / Patti Ann Rego on Vanguard, Blue Devils, gold medals, rifle lines, and drum corps history News: Walnut Hills practice time, Blue Devils bus incident, DCI Houston relocation, WGI updates, Big Loud & Live, FloMarching, DCI scores, and MLB All-Star field cast opportunity Water We Doing?!: DCI ticket prices, smaller lineups, the tour model, and modern show design Gush & Go: Momix, the Human Library, Govenaires, Blue Knights, moving, not moving, vintage rifles, Blue Devil Betties, and Backyard Bettys Panel: Whitney Stone @dancerwhit • Sadie Wallace @m.sadiewallace • Jeremy Svoboda / Drum Corps Today @drumcorpstoday • Special Guest: P.A. Kelly / Patti Ann Rego Sponsored by: Guard Closet — guardcloset.com — @guardcloset Source Links: Walnut Hills: https://local12.com/news/local/cincinnati-marching-band-miss-season-after-practice-time-cut-walnut-hills-high-school-students-bands-marching-instruments-talent-controversy-controversial-frustrations-state-finals-performances | Blue Devils: https://bluedevils.org/news/article.php?ID=1291 | DCI Houston: https://www.dci.org/news/katy-isds-legacy-stadium-to-host-2026-dci-houston-event/ | WGI proposals: https://www.wgi.org/26adboardresults/ | WGI alumni casting: https://www.wgi.org/wgi-opening-ceremony-alumni-casting-call/ | Big Loud & Live: https://www.dci.org/cinema/ | DCI/FloMarching: https://www.flomarching.com/articles/16020294-subscribe-to-flomarching-to-watch-the-entire-2026-dci-season | DCI scores: https://www.dci.org/scores/ | BD Entertainment: https://www.facebook.com/WeAreBDE/ | MLB All-Star Week: https://www.mlb.com/phillies/fans/all-star-game | MOMIX: https://www.momix.com/ | Human Library: https://humanlibrary.org/ Find On A Water Break: Website: onawaterbreak.com | Listen Everywhere: linktr.ee/onawaterbreak | YouTube: @Onawaterbreak | Instagram/Facebook/TikTok: @onawaterbreak | Be a guest: onawaterbreakpodcast@gmail.com

  • S4 · E25
    June 28 · 51 min

    Blue Devils Bus Fire, WGI 2027 Calendar, DCI Houston Move & Marching Band Practice Cuts | Color Guard, Winter Guard, Drum Corps, Marching Band & Marching Arts News on OAWB

    Your All-Access Pass to the Marching Arts. Color guard, winter guard, and marching band news are moving fast as DCI 2026 gets rolling and WGI 2027 starts coming into view. Nicole Younger hosts Stephen McCarrick and Jeremy Svoboda for a Water Break Weekly episode covering Walnut Hills High School marching band rehearsal access, the Blue Devils travel incident, DCI Houston’s move to Katy ISD’s Legacy Stadium, and the newly released WGI 2027 Color Guard, Percussion, and Winds regional calendars. In this episode: Walnut Hills marching band practice-time concerns and why rehearsal access matters Blue Devils members and staff reported safe after a tire-related bus fire DCI Houston moving to Katy ISD’s Legacy Stadium for the 2026 tour WGI 2027 regional calendars for color guard, percussion, and winds 60 Second Tech Block: Stephen on training technique through muscle awareness Water We Doing?!: late DCI show announcements, rehearsal leaks, copyright realities, and respecting admin teams Nicole highlights the African American Legacy Corps and its 2027 DCI plans Gush & Go: Eastern University, Phantom Regiment, Colts percussion, Eagles Drumline, and FIFA performance life Related Episodes: S4EP23: Summer Color Guard Training, WGI Rule Changes & DCI Houston Relocation | Color Guard & Marching Band Design Analysis | Pro Tip Besties This week’s panel: Nicole Younger @o2binpjs • Stephen McCarrick @stephenmccarrick • Jeremy Svoboda / Drum Corps Today @drumcorpstoday Sponsored by: Guard Closet. Find On A Water Break: Website | Listen Everywhere | YouTube | Instagram/TikTok/Facebook: @onawaterbreak | Be a guest: onawaterbreakpodcast@gmail.com

  • S4 · E24
    June 19 · 29 min

    Summer Color Guard Training, WGI Rule Changes & DCI Houston Relocation | OAWB S4EP23

    Your All-Access Pass to the Marching Arts. A Podcast for Marching Arts Enthusiasts — On the Field, In the Stands & Behind the Scenes. Color guard, winter guard, and marching band summer prep are on deck this week. Grantis Peranda is joined by Jeremy Denzer and Emily Nee for a Water Break Weekly episode covering DCI Houston, major WGI 2026 proposal results, the WGI 2027 Opening Ceremony Alumni Casting Call, Pride Guard season, and practical summer training before band camp. Episode Highlights: DCI Houston relocation and summer tour updates WGI proposal results, including Scholastic A seeding and scholastic promotions WGI 2027 Opening Ceremony Alumni Casting Call 60 Second Tech Block: summer training that matches your performers Water We Doing?!: spin clinics should build confidence, not confusion Summer opportunities: DCI shows, clinics, local spin days, Pride guards, and parade performance Gush & Go: New England Pride Color Guard, forward-moving parade shows, Taiwan travel, and Seattle solstice creativity Panel: Grantis Peranda (@grantisimo_p), Jeremy Denzer (@jeremydenzer), and Emily Nee (@tch.makes.art). Sponsored by: Guard Closet (@guardcloset). Find On A Water Break: Website | YouTube | Listen Everywhere | All Links | Be a guest: onawaterbreakpodcast@gmail.com

  • June 14 · 18 min

    OAWB Bonus Episode: Smart Visual Design with Joey Montes & Kim Jones

    OAWB Bonus Episode: Smart Visual Design with Joey Montes & Kim Jones Originally presented during Guard Closet's "So You Run a Program" virtual workshop, this special bonus episode explores practical visual design strategies that help performers succeed, improve show readability, and create stronger audience impact. Topics include finding creative inspiration, choosing music with visual possibility, designing around performer strengths, creating visual impact moments, building stronger transitions, avoiding clutter, and connecting visual design directly to musical storytelling. One of the biggest questions discussed in this session: "Do I hear what I see and do I see what I hear?" Need help with your next season? 📧 design@guardcloset.com 🌐 Design Closet: https://www.guardcloset.com/design 🌐 Guard Closet: https://www.guardcloset.com Follow Guard Closet: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/guardcloset Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GuardCloset TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@guardcloset YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GuardCloset Follow On A Water Break: Website: https://www.onawaterbreakpodcast.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/onawaterbreak Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/onawaterbreak YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@OnAWaterBreakPodcast Listen, learn, and keep building stronger programs.

  • June 12 · 1 hr

    Color Guard & Marching Band Design Analysis | Pro Tip Besties with Nicole Younger + Dalton Stout

    Color Guard, Winter Guard & Marching Band Design Analysis Design analysis does not have to feel like a mystery. In this special Pro Tip Besties episode of On A Water Break, Nicole Younger and Dalton Stout dig into the Design Analysis caption with real questions from real color guard, winter guard, and marching band programs. This conversation originates on On A Water Break and is presented in collaboration with Guard Closet and the Design Closet. Nicole and Dalton are joined by Preston Copas, Annie Stegall, and Jordan Fontana for a practical conversation about writing smarter shows, designing for the performers in front of you, and building visual programs that are achievable, clear, musical, and effective. In this episode Designing for beginner color guard performers without making the show boring How marching band guard writing reads from the stands Why simple choreography can still create effect Building a Plan B before rehearsal pressure hits What judges may mean when they ask for “more variety” How to avoid split focus in color guard and marching band staging Writing for mixed skill levels Finishing phrases and strengthening transitions Avoiding midseason “science fair project” rewrites Teaching performance without just saying “smile” Quick fixes for common design problems Featuring Nicole Younger — Guard Closet / Design Closet — Instagram: @o2bnpjs Dalton Stout — Instagram: @saltydalti Preston Copas — University at Albany Winterguard — Instagram: @ualbanyguard / @heylookitspreston Annie Stegall — Corbin High School / University of the Cumberlands — Instagram/TikTok: @corbin.colorguard / Instagram: @whatthefawkbro Jordan Fontana — Lecanto Emeralds — Instagram: @lecanto.emeralds Links Learn more about Guard Closet’s Design Closet Visit Guard Closet Follow On A Water Break Follow Guard Closet on Instagram Follow On A Water Break on Instagram On A Water Break Website Find On A Water Break: Website: onawaterbreak.com | Listen Everywhere: linktr.ee/onawaterbreak | Be a Guest: onawaterbreakpodcast@gmail.com #ColorGuard #WinterGuard #MarchingBand #DesignAnalysis #MarchingArts

  • S4 · E26
    June 9 · 1 hr 10 min

    Have a Plan and Train: Rehearsal Scheduling, Technique, Trick Toss Safety & DCI Access | OAWB S4EP21

    Your All-Access Pass to the Marching Arts. A Podcast for Marching Arts Enthusiasts — On the Field, In the Stands & Behind the Scenes. Marching band, color guard, DCI, WGI, BOA Summer Camp, drum corps, rehearsal planning, and Pride Bands are all on deck this week. This week on On A Water Break, Joey Montes III is joined by Dalton Stout and Haley Harrington for a Water Break Weekly episode about training with intention, building better rehearsal schedules, keeping performers safe, and remembering that the marching arts are built by people who show up, ask questions, and keep learning. The panel covers Adams 14 honoring Colorado fallen veterans at the National Memorial Day Parade, WGI event staff opportunities, Bands of America Summer Camp at Ball State, and the Pride Bands Alliance conference in Philadelphia. Then Dalton drops a 60 Second Tech Block on detailed rehearsal schedules before the group gets into trick toss safety, DCI show access, community advocacy, and appreciating how far you’ve come. Panel: Joey Montes III — @marchingbymontesDalton Stout — @SaltyDaltiHaley Harrington — @h_harrington14 Episode Highlights: • Adams 14 honors Colorado fallen veterans• WGI event staff applications and why logistics matter• BOA Summer Camp, Leadership Weekend, and continued learning• Pride Bands Alliance and Philadelphia Freedom Band’s 2026 conference concert• Dalton’s 60 Second Tech Block on detailed rehearsal schedules• Technique in every rehearsal, training in character, and cleaning transitions• Trick toss safety and DCI show access• Gush & Go: summer reading, DVS beginner courses, and WGI advisory board proposals Related Episodes: DCI CEO Departure, $85K Drum Corps Scholarships, WGI Brother Duo & Marching Arts Burnout Band Censorship, DCI Clinics & AI Uniform Design DCI 2026 Tickets, WGI Graphic Designer Job + Band Censorship Debate Featured Links: WGI Event Staff Application Bands of America Summer Camp Pride Bands Alliance 2026 Dalton Stout / DVS Cincinnati Tradition Sponsored by: Guard Closet — @guardcloset Peak Group Travel — @peak.group.travel Find On A Water Break: Website YouTube Listen Everywhere All Links Be a guest onawaterbreakpodcast@gmail.com Follow @onawaterbreak on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok.

  • S4 · E25
    June 7 · 1 hr 31 min

    Marching Band Summer Prep, Color Guard Costumes, Sunscreen Safety, WGI Future Leaders & Drum Corps Costs | OAWB S4EP22

    Your All-Access Pass to the Marching Arts. Marching band, color guard, DCI, WGI, drum corps, and summer band camp prep are all on deck this week. A Podcast for Marching Arts Enthusiasts — On the Field, In the Stands & Behind the Scenes. This week on On A Water Break, Ashlee Amos leads Bobbey Biddle, Whitney Stone, Hayley Harrington, and Bill “Woody” Woodward through a packed Water Break Weekly episode covering sunscreen safety, Blue Devils International, Pete Emmons’ visual design legacy, Leia Klein’s inspiring color guard story, the return of WGI Latin America, and the 2026 WGI Future Leaders Program class. Whitney’s 60 Second Tech Block is the summer marching band and color guard reality check: train your performers, teach technique, size the cast, order costumes, prep flag designs, get music in students’ hands, and make sure the whole staff understands the show before band camp arrives. Episode Highlights: • Sunscreen, hats, hydration, and rehearsal safety • Blue Devils International heading to Europe • Remembering Pete Emmons and asymmetrical drill • WGI Latin America returning in Costa Rica • WGI Future Leaders Program class of 2026 • AI-generated design and why real artists still matter • Drum corps costs, tour logistics, and alumni support • Baton music choices, judging standards, and rewarding creativity Panel: Ashlee Amos — @famousamossss_ Bobbey Biddle — @bobbeyboy107 Whitney Stone — @dancerwhit Hayley Harrington — @h_harrington14 Bill “Woody” Woodward — @remoking100 Sponsored by: Guard Closet — guardcloset.com — @guardcloset Peak Group Travel — peakgrouptravel.com — @peak.group.travel Find On A Water Break: Website YouTube Listen Everywhere Spotify Apple Podcasts All Links Be a guest: onawaterbreakpodcast@gmail.com Follow @onawaterbreak on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok.

  • June 4 · 5 min

    Color Guard Joins the Patti LaBelle Pride Celebration at Philadelphia Pride 2026

    Your All-Access Pass to the Marching Arts. Color Guard Joins the Patti LaBelle Pride Celebration at Philadelphia Pride 2026. In this Quick Sip, Trish O’Shea welcomes Dylan Watson back to On A Water Break to preview the Philly Pride 365 Colorguard and its role inside Philadelphia Pride 2026. Dylan talks about building a bigger color guard production this year, including parade choreography, stage movement, dancing, Philly music, and a celebration connected to the music and legacy of Patti LaBelle. Philadelphia Pride 2026 brings Pride on the Parkway to the Benjamin Franklin Parkway on Sunday, June 7, following March Into Pride in the Gayborhood. This year’s celebration honors Philadelphia icon Patti LaBelle with a tribute recognizing her musical legacy, cultural impact, and connection to LGBTQIA+ communities. For Dylan, this is more than a parade feature. It is a chance to show audiences that color guard is a full production: visual, musical, emotional, and powerful. Featuring: Trish O’Shea – @trishdish1102 Dylan Watson – @that_dude_dylan19 Also connected: Philly Pride 365 – @phillypride365 Patti LaBelle – @mspattilabelle Nicole Younger – @o2binpjs Learn more about Philly Pride 365: PhillyPride365.org Find On A Water Break: Website Listen Everywhere All Links Be a guest onawaterbreakpodcast@gmail.com Follow On A Water Break: Instagram: @onawaterbreak Facebook: @onawaterbreak YouTube: @Onawaterbreak

  • S4 · E20
    May 30 · 55 min

    DCI CEO Departure, $85K Drum Corps Scholarships, WGI Brother Duo & Marching Arts Burnout | OAWB S4EP20

    Your All-Access Pass to the Marching Arts. DCI 2026, drum corps scholarships, WGI percussion, marching band burnout, and AI show art all hit the water break this week. Ricardo Robinson-Shinall, Sadie Wallace, and Jeremy Denzer break down Drum Corps International’s leadership transition, DCI’s 2026 scholarship recipients, the WGI story of Joshua and Jacob Mendiola, and why marching arts educators need to take a real break before the next season takes over. Panel: Ricardo Robinson-Shinall — @ricardorrobinson Sadie Wallace — @m.sadiewallace Jeremy Svboda — @drumcorpstoday Chapters: 00:00 Cold Open: Welcome to Water Break Weekly 00:46 Meet the Panel 01:45 Jeremy’s Govenaires Update + Drum Corps Season Talk 04:05 Last Week Recap + This Week’s News Setup 05:25 News: DCI Announces Leadership Transition 14:47 News: DCI Awards More Than $85K in 2026 Scholarships 18:09 News: WGI Brother Duo Shares Medal-Winning Experience 22:34 Sponsor Break 24:32 60 Second Tech Block: Skipped This Week 24:32 Water We Doing?!: Drum Corps Apps, AI Show Art, and Burnout 25:14 Sadie: Lot App, Member Tracking, and Tour Privacy 30:14 Jeremy: Show Announcements and AI-Generated Design 33:05 Ricardo: Educators, Take the Break 39:30 Gush and Go 39:38 Sadie: Michael Cesario Wedding Dress Story 44:05 Jeremy: Returning to Drum Corps with the Govenaires 47:09 Ricardo: Philly Pride 365, Patti LaBelle, and Color Guard 53:06 Closing: Submit Stories + Subscribe Featured Links: DCI leadership transition DCI 2026 scholarship recipients WGI Mendiola brothers feature Related Episodes: WGI Housing Policy + AI Show Design Debate Marching Band Protests, Million Dollar Band Record Numbers, Drum Corps Costs & Big Loud Live Sponsored by: Guard Closet — guardcloset.com — @guardcloset Peak Group Travel — peakgrouptravel.com — @peak.group.travel Find On A Water Break: Website YouTube Spotify Apple Podcasts All Links Be a guest onawaterbreakpodcast@gmail.com Follow @onawaterbreak on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok.

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