LAMBERTVILLE: Drum group marches to new beat

Learn more about The Lambertville Volunteers Drum & Bugle Corps, including hearing some of its music, by visiting www.lambertvillevolunteers.org

   The Lambertville Volunteers Drum & Bugle Corps, the second oldest continuously performing drum corps in history (celebrating 78 years), has no plans for slowing down anytime soon.
   In fact, the New Year has brought about new management, and a corps that is marching to a brand new beat.
   First organized in 1931, in the midst of the great depression, the Lambertville Volunteers maintained a brilliant history as a junior corps, while they were collectively sponsored by the Lambertville Fire Department, the Lambertville VFW Post # 7921, and the Lambertville American Legion Post # 120.
   In 1955, the Corps changed to a Senior Corps, and entered field competition, and in 1958 and 1959, the Volunteers placed second in state championships.
   In 1964, when the Lambertville Volunteers decided to no longer compete on the field, but rather to provide a more easygoing schedule in which the members could enjoy just a few parades, concerts and exhibitions, the “alternative drum corps” was born. In a sense, the Lambertville Volunteers defined a genre that would characterize the alumni drum corps. In 1975, the Lambertville Volunteers were one of the pioneer corps to introduce women into the ranks.
   The Lambertville Volunteers have commemorated a long and rich history of achievements, including multiple NJ State Parade Championship titles, and in 1997 the Lambertville Volunteers were honored with the distinction of becoming the DCA National Mini-Corps Champions, with their outstanding medley of “Blood, Sweat & Tears.”
   The Volunteers’ repertoires have become renowned for their exciting jazz and swing-influenced programs, while maintaining their classic patriotic marches and medleys, and can be seen at various local events, including Memorial Day, Veteran’s Day, 4th of July and the Lambertville ShadFest, among others.
   Now in their 78th year, the Lambertville Volunteers, dubbed “small but mighty,” are still going strong and enthusiastic, and with a brand new beat! Their new style for 2009 will include a troupe of interactive and audience participation players, and will include song, dance and exhibition.
   New songs include “Caravan,” “I Love Lucy,” “James Bond theme,” “Grand Old Flag,” “Late In the Evening,” and “Johnny One Note,” among many others!
   Many patrons are equally appreciative of the strict traditions and skills of military carriage of equipment. That will always be maintained. The new style will get audiences on their feet, as they sing, dance and cheer along with the corps, and will make attending a parade a whole new experience.
   The Lambertville Volunteers Drum & Bugle Corps always welcomes new members, new performances and new support from the public. Ever wanted to perform or play an instrument? Know of an event or a parade near you? Drop us a line! Are you a fan or drum corps enthusiast, but do not have enough time to participate? See how you can help us.
   Learn more about The Lambertville Volunteers Drum & Bugle Corps, including hearing some of its music, by visiting www.lambertvillevolunteers.org.