The Bushwackers Drum & Bugle Corps Perform for America’s Champions
On Friday June 20, 2014, the Bushwackers Drum & Bugle Corps had the honor of performing for thousands of athletes, coaches, supporters, and a worldwide online audience as the opening act for the 2014 Special Olympics USA Games Closing Ceremonies.
The Corps was tasked with pumping the crowd up as the Bush Drumline entered the arena with a rocking cadence that brought cheers and excitement as the Hornline and Front Ensemble took their places. The Corps was then privileged to perform a custom arrangement of “Heart of a Champion”, the theme anthem composed for the 2014 USA games. As Drum Major Alex Siwa conducted the first notes, the crowd instantly recognized the song and cheered the Corps on to a huge finish. The Corps then had the opportunity to perform the National Anthem with the incomparable Dr. Jesse McGuire from the band Tower of Power on solo trumpet. This was truly a special moment for the crowd and performers alike as the Corps honored America with this hauntingly beautiful arrangement.
This appearance by the Bushwackers has been over a year and half in the making. Tremendous support from the USA Special Olympics, the community, as well as our Alumni and Supporters made this one-in-a-lifetime opportunity a reality for our members. The Bushwackers organization is bursting with pride as we were able to touch the hearts and create joy for thousands of America’s Champions.
This performance opportunity is a tremendous example of how this excerpt from the Bushwackers’ Mission Statement drives this organization:
“The mission of the Bushwackers Drum & Bugle Corps is to provide the membership with life-changing experiences, both educationally and socially, which help each member gain real-world life skills, athletic and musical training, performance experience, and civic responsibility.”
Please Enjoy This Video of the Bushwackers’ Performance Experience