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MORE NEWS

DRUM CORPS HOSTS ANNUAL AWARDS BANQUET

The Muchachos held its annual awards banquet on Sunday, October 9th, at the Parish of the Transfiguration in Manchester. Members, family, friends, staff, and alumni were on hand to celebrate a successful 2011 summer season. Awards from each caption were awarded to the following members:

Color Guard

• Most Improved: 2011 Color Guard
• Most Valuable Player: Melissa O'Meara

Drum Line

• Most Improved: Dee Wheeler - marimba
• Most Valuable Player: Rick Cote - snare

Horn Line

• Most Improved: Dale Kenney - soprano
• Most Valuable Player: Keith Raiche - baritone

Rookie of the Year

• Dale Kenney - soprano

Pat Provencher Spirit Award

• Carolyn Surrell - cymbals

Tom Downie Peer Recognition Award

• Joan Joly - mellophone

Muchacho of the Year

• Joan Joly - mellophone

A special Award was presented to Dave Lafond for his 6 years as the Corps' first Program Director, getting the Corps to the level it's at now. Thank you, Dave!

The Muchachos are already working on the 2012 season program. Rehearsal dates are posted on the Corps' website and an open house is scheduled for Sunday, November 6th. Individuals interested in membership are encouraged to join us at our open house or rehearsals or to contact us for information.

Added: October 10, 2011

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100 NIGHTS OF REMEMBRANCE CLOSING CEREMONY 9/11

The 100 Nights of Remembrance organization will be holding its Closing Ceremony on Sunday, September 11th at the New Hampshire State Veterans Cemetery in Boscawen, NH starting at 6:00 PM.

The mission of 100 Nights of Remembrance is to sound live "Taps" every night, for 100 nights, from Memorial Day to September 11th at the New Hampshire State Veterans Cemetery in Boscawen, NH and at Mount Calvary Cemetery in Manchester, NH. The organization is an outgrowth of what started as "An evening of Echo Taps" on Memorial Day 2006 when the Muchachos Drum and Bugle Corps sounded "Taps" in rounds at the 20 white granite monuments that surround the grand flag. On Memorial Day 2007, 100 Nights of Remembrance was born when the corps was joined by several other buglers for a ceremony that began the sounding of "Taps" for the next 100 evenings.

This year marks the 6th anniversary of 100 Nights of Remembrance and the 10th anniversary of 9/11. On September 11th, a special remembrance ceremony will be held at the New Hampshire State Veterans Cemetery in Boscawen, NH. All brass players are invited to join the 100 Nights of Remembrance in the final sounding of "Taps". For more information, please visit the 100 Nights of Remembrance website. Contact Noel Taylor for questions and to sign up to participate in this special event.

Added: September 5, 2011

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BLOOD DRIVE SETS NATIONAL RECORD

The Gail Singer Memorial Blood Drive set the national record Tuesday as the nation's largest one-day community blood drive by collecting 1,959 pints of blood from 2,325 potential donors.

The Muchachos helped in the effort by forming a team as part of the drive's Corporate Challenge. The corps recruited donors from among members, staff, alumni, family, and friends. Corps Director Al Gagne also volunteered at the drive, helping donors move from one station to the next.

Gail Singer, the late wife of Gary Singer, one of the owners of Merchants Automotive Group, passed away in 1984 of leukemia. The Singer Family has been involved in the Greater Manchester community for over 50 years. Their service to the community has helped many throughout New Hampshire, including the Muchachos Drum and Bugle Corps. To learn more about the annual blood drive, visit the Gail Singer Memorial Blood Drive website.

To learn more about donating blood, visit the American Red Cross website.

Added: August 31, 2011

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MUCHACHOS FORMING TEAM FOR BLOOD DRIVE

Come join the "Muchachos Team" and help save lives!

The Corps is forming a team for the 28th Annual Gail Singer Memorial Blood Drive as part of the Corporate Challenge. Corps members, staff, family, friends, and alumni are invited to join the "Muchachos Team" and donate blood on Tuesday, August 30th, between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. at the Radisson Hotel, 700 Elm Street, Manchester, New Hampshire.

Gail Singer is the late wife of Gary Singer, one of the owners of Merchants Automotive Group. The Singer Family has been involved in the Greater Manchester community for over 50 years. Their service to the community has helped many throughout New Hampshire, including the Muchachos Drum and Bugle Corps. Let's support their effort to hold the largest blood drive in New England by forming a large "Muchachos Team" and donating blood on the 30th.

To donate as a member of the "Muchachos Team," contact Corps Director Al Gagne to put your name on the roster.

At the blood drive check-in, just mention that you are on the "Muchachos Team" in order to be tallied with the correct group. Corporate Challenge groups are eligible to receive a group prize, and each member will receive a free t-shirt and a donor appreciation bag.

To learn more about donating blood, visit the American Red Cross website. A donation appointment is not required but is strongly encouraged. Make your appointment by clicking here and entering Sponsor Code 3491. You can also make an appointment by calling (603) 625-1951.

Join the "Muchachos Team" and help make the Gail Singer Memorial Blood Drive the largest blood drive in the nation!

Updated: August 24, 2011

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WINNER OF THE LIMO RIDE AND GAME AT FENWAY

The drawing for the winner of two tickets to the August 27th game between the Boston Red Sox and Oakland Athletics was held today, and the winner is:

Danny O'Malley of Leominster, MA

Congratulations, Danny! A special thank you goes to Joel Trippiedi for donating the Red Sox tickets and to Axis Coach, LLC for providing limousine transportation to and from Fenway. And a big thanks to everyone participating and supporting the Muchachos!

Added: August 15, 2011

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GAME AT FENWAY & LIMO RIDE FUNDRAISING RAFFLE

How does traveling in comfort and style to see a baseball game at famous Fenway Park sound? Here's your chance to win two tickets to the Saturday, August 27th game plus round-trip transportation in your own air conditioned chauffeured limousine!

Leave your car and parking hassles behind. The Muchachos are raffling two tickets to the August 27th game at Fenway against the Oakland A's. The game starts at 1:10 PM. The seats are located in Section 23, Row 5, Seats 6 and 7. Limousine transportation* to and from Fenway is courtesy of Axis Coach, LLC.

Tickets are only $10 a piece. Only 300 tickets will be sold!

Raffle tickets can be purchased by contacting the Muchachos at (978) 743-9584, by contacting a Corps member or by email at The drawing will be held August 15th.

Don't wait! Get your raffle tickets today! Good luck!

*125 miles round trip max

Updated: July 17, 2011

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SUPPORT THE CORPS AND ENJOY A GAME OF BASEBALL

Join us Sunday, July 31st!

Where else can you enjoy a game of baseball and a performance by the Muchachos Drum and Bugle Corps but at a New Hampshire Fisher Cats baseball game!

On Sunday, July 31, 2011, the Fisher Cats take on the Reading Phillies at Northeast Delta Dental Stadium in Manchester, NH. Game time is 1:35 pm. The Muchachos will be performing the National Anthem and parading around the park for all in attendance. Tickets are only $10 or $12 and each ticket includes a $3 or $4 donation to the Muchachos. It's an afternoon of great entertainment for the entire family. And kids can run the bases after the game!

Muchachos Alumni: Come watch the game with us! Bring family and friends and hang out with current and former members of the Muchachos while supporting your Corps!

For more information and to purchase tickets directly from the Corps, contact the Muchachos at (978) 743-9584 or by email at

Tickets can also be purchased online at the New Hampshire Fisher Cats website. Please enter the Special Offer Code Muchachos and select Section 110, 111, 112, or 113 for ticket location to donate $3 or $4 from the ticket sale to the Muchachos. (A Convenience Charge of $1.50 and a Per-Order Fee of $0.25 is added for each ticket purchased online.)

Come out and enjoy the Fisher Cats Entertainment Experience while supporting the Muchachos!

Updated: July 17, 2011

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DRUM CORPS SHOW SATURDAY JULY 16TH AT 5:30 PM

Our 5th annual home show, Fiesta de Musica, will take place Saturday, July 16, 2011 at Memorial High School's Clem Lemire Sports Complex, 1 Crusader Way, Manchester, New Hampshire, beginning at 5:30 PM.

Performing corps: (Links open in a new window.)

• Les Stentors - Sherbrooke, QU
• Spartans - Nashua, NH
• 7th Regiment - New London, CT
• St. Kevin Emerald Knights (in exhibition) - Boston, MA
• Crusaders Senior (in exhibition) - Boston, MA
• The Muchachos (in exhibition) - Manchester, NH

Tickets are $12 for adults and $10 for seniors and children under 12.

Tickets will be available at the gate.

Come cheer on these dedicated performers and support the drum corps activity! See you at the show!

Updated: July 14, 2011

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MUCHACHOS JULY 4TH WEEKEND SCHEDULE

The Muchachos Drum and Bugle Corps is performing in exhibition at two Drum Corps International (DCI) shows this weekend as well as two parades.

The weekend starts July 1st in Quincy, MA with an exhibition at the CYO NATIONALS Tribute World Class competition. On Saturday, July 2nd, the Corps will be performing in exhibition in Lynn, MA at the Beanpot Invitational, also a DCI World Class competition.

On Monday, July 4th, the Corps will be marching in two parades: in New Boston, NH, with a parade start time of 10:00 am and in Merrimack, NH with a 2:00 pm start time.

The Muchachos wish you a safe and happy 4th of July!

Added: July 1, 2011

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RESULTS OF MUCHACHOS DAY AT DONATION CENTER

Thursday, June 30, 2011, was "Muchachos Day" at the Manchester Red Cross Donation Center. Forty-six pints of blood were collected. In addition to the Center's monthly promotions, donors were entered for a chance to win a pair of tickets to the Muchachos "Fiesta de Musica" drum and bugle corps competition being held on Saturday, July 16, 2011 at Memorial High School in Manchester, New Hampshire.

The following donors each won two tickets to "Fiesta de Musica":

• Brian Kelly
• Lisa Marchand
• Donald Gelinas
• Ann Szybiak
• Nancy Atkinson
• Priscilla Desrochers

Thank you for donating blood and congratulations!

Added: July 1, 2011

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SEEKING MULTI-TENOR OR SNARE FOR 2011 SEASON

The Muchachos Drum and Bugle Corps has an opening for an experienced multi-tenor (quint) player and/or a snare to round out our drumline due to a member pulling out for the summer. As a DCI-affiliated all-age exhibition corps, we have a limited rehearsal and performance schedule.

The Corps will be performing at Boston-area World Class shows: CYO Nationals Tribute in Quincy, MA; Beanpot Invitational in Lynn, MA; and East Coast Classic in Lawrence, MA. The Corps also travels to Kingston, NY to perform in exhibition at the March of Champions show.

For more information on this, or any other performance opportunities with the Muchachos, please contact us.

Added: May 30, 2011

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THE MUCHACHOS TO REHEARSE IN NASHUA

The Muchachos will be holding rehearsals in Nashua, New Hampshire at Bishop Guertin High School on the weekends of April 30th and May 1st and on May 14th and 15th. The Corps is grateful for the opportunity to use the school's facilities as they provide the group much needed space to work on this year's field show. The corps will be back in Manchester for rehearsals in June. See the schedule for times and locations of rehearsals and performances.

For information on participating with the corps as a member or as a volunteer at our home show, please contact us or visit us at rehearsal.

Added: April 24, 2011

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ONE WEEK LEFT FOR GUARANTEED SPOT IN 2011 SHOW

Thinking about marching this summer? Looking for an inexpensive alternative to touring corps?

Positions for the field show are being finalized but if you act now, you can still secure a spot in the hornline, drumline or color guard for this summer's exhibitions. We accept new members all year long, and you are welcome to join and march with us in parades, but if you are looking to perform with us on the field in exhibition at DCI and DCA shows, your best chance is to join now!

Interested?

Visit our Membership page and read the Member's Handbook and Tuition Agreement for an understanding of commitment expectations and obligations.

Contact Corps Director Al Gagne before April 23rd to sign up and secure a spot on the field with a tuition deposit.

See you at Drill Camp on April 30th at Bishop Guertin High School in Nashua, NH.

Not sure? Still contact us or visit us at Drill Camp on April 30th to learn about options for performing with the Muchachos this year.

Added: April 17, 2011

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OPEN REHEARSAL AND INFORMATION DAY APRIL 17TH

The Muchachos Drum and Bugle Corps of Manchester is hosting an Open Rehearsal and Information Day on Sunday, April 17th, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Manchester Boys & Girls Club, 555 Union Street in Manchester, NH.

The Corps is looking to add to its horn, percussion, and color guard sections for its upcoming 2011 performance season. Previous experience in drum corps or marching band is preferred but is not a requirement to join.

The Muchachos is a teaching drum corps, dedicated to providing musical, color guard and marching instruction to all interested in drum corps performing arts. Membership is open to anyone aged 14 and up.

If you are interested in participating at the Open Rehearsal—with the drum line, horn line or color guard—please contact us and let us know so that equipment is available for you to use. If you play a brass instrument, please bring your mouthpiece. Drummers, bring your sticks. If you are unable to attend but interested in joining, still contact us so we can speak with you.

Don't miss out! This is our last rehearsal before drill camp. If you are thinking of joining us this summer on the field, please try to attend this rehearsal as staff will be finalizing positions for the field show soon!

For more information call 603-228-3971 or visit www.muchachos.org.

All are welcome! Hope to see you there!

Added: March 29, 2011

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COME JOIN US AND HAVE FUN THIS SUMMER

The Muchachos Drum and Bugle Corps is looking for additional members for its brass, percussion and color guard sections for the 2011 exhibition season.

As an all-age DCI (Drum Corps International) exhibition corps, members range from 14 years old up through retirement age. While many members have performed previously—including with DCI Open and World Class corps—the Muchachos is a teaching corps, dedicated to providing musical, color guard and marching instruction to all interested in drum corps performing arts. As a summer music program, it's a great addition to any music student's education.

We offer you the opportunity to learn or improve your marching, performing and musical abilities. We provide instruments, musical and color guard instruction from our talented instructional staff, uniforms, and buses for out-of-town shows and parades. You will spend time around some really nice people with similar interest and love of music and get to experience the excitement of performing in a group before adoring fans.

We have several members who marched years ago as children and are returning to the activity. We also have a number of high school and college students who perform with their school bands and find the Muchachos' activities fit their schedule.

For more information, visit us at a rehearsal and speak with staff and members or contact us.

Updated: March 10, 2011

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SUPPORT THE CORPS AND SAVE WITH BON-TON!

Since 1999, the Bon-Ton family of stores has partnered with local community organizations just like ours to help raise over $80 million! Community Day is a great way for you to give back to your community by purchasing coupon booklets valued at over $200 for just $5 each! For $5, you will receive a $10 off coupon with minimal restrictions, 30%* off early-bird coupon, a 20%* off shopping pass, bonus coupons, and amazing web offers. The Muchachos Inc. keeps 100% of the booklet price! *restrictions apply.

To purchase a booklet, please contact any member of the Muchachos, contact us through our Community Day Homepage, or visit us at the Concord Bon-Ton, 270 Loudon Road on Monday, February 21, 2011 between noon and 4:00 PM.

For more information, please contact Jennifer Raiche at 603-268-9000.

Added: February 13, 2011

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FLAPJACK FUNDRAISER ON SATURDAY FEBRUARY 12TH

Come enjoy breakfast for only $5 and support the Muchachos!

Muchachos Drum and Bugle Corps is hosting an Applebee's® Flapjack Fundraiser at the Applebee's® Neighborhood Grill & Bar, 581 Second St., Manchester, NH on Saturday, February 12, 2011 from 8:30 am to 10:00 am.

Tickets are only $5 per person and includes pancakes, syrup, and refills on coffee, tea, juice, and soda. Tickets will be available at the door on February 12th. Tickets can also be purchased at our open house on February 6th (see below) or from a Corps member.

Your participation in our fundraisers helps the Muchachos continue its successful music education and drum corps performing arts program by offsetting expenses for equipment, instruction, transportation, uniforms, and other costs necessary to operate and field an all-age exhibition drum and bugle corps.

Thank you for your support!

For more information, contact Melissa O'Meara.

Updated: February 2, 2011

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OPEN HOUSE FEBRUARY 6TH

The Muchachos Drum & Bugle Corps of Manchester is hosting an Open House on Sunday, February 6th, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Manchester Boys & Girls Club, 555 Union Street in Manchester, NH.

The Corps is looking to add to its horn, percussion, and color guard sections for its upcoming 2011 performance season. Previous experience in drum corps or marching band is preferred but is not a requirement to join.

The Muchachos is a teaching drum corps, dedicated to providing musical, color guard and marching instruction to all interested in drum corps performing arts. Membership is open to anyone aged 14 and up.

If you are interested in participating at the Open House—with the drum line, horn line or color guard—please contact us and let us know so that equipment is available for you to use. If you play a brass instrument, please bring your mouthpiece. Drummers, bring your sticks.

For more information call 603-228-3971 or visit www.muchachos.org.

All are welcome!

Added: January 15, 2010

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HAPPY HOLIDAYS FROM THE MUCHACHOS

On behalf of the staff, members, and Board of Directors of the Muchachos, we wish everyone a happy, healthy, and safe holiday season. As we close our 50th Anniversary year and look forward to our 51st, we'd like to thank our families, friends, alumni, and fans for their continued support. Each year, the Corps grows in both size and in talent. It's a testament to the Corps' mission of music education for all ages. The 2011 season is shaping up to be an exciting and challenging one, and we hope you can be a part of it.

Thank you, and happy holidays to all!

Added: December 22, 2010

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MUCHACHOS TO PERFORM IN HOLIDAY MUSICAL

The annual Holiday Musical to benefit the Union Leader Santa Fund for The Salvation Army returns to the Palace Theatre in Manchester, NH on Sunday, December 12th. The show, which begins at 6:30 pm, consists of two acts of musical and dance performances by local community groups, including the Muchachos Drum and Bugle Corps, New England Tap Ensemble, The Effengees, and Dance Visions Network. For more information, read Get ready for sounds of the season on the UnionLeader.com.

Children can meet Santa Claus and hot chocolate and cookies will be available to audience members during intermission. All proceeds go to the Union Leader Santa Fund, which the Salvation Army uses to provide toys, warm clothes and meals during the holidays as well as to support heating assistance programs.

Tickets may be purchased at the door, 80 Hanover Street, or online up to 24 hours before the show at www.palacetheatre.org.

Added: December 9, 2010

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MUCHACHOS ALUMNI CELEBRATE CORPS' 50 YEARS

Some 75 alumni and present day staff and performing members gathered at The Chateau Restaurant in Manchester on Friday, November 26 for a reunion celebration as part of the corps 50th Anniversary season to reminisce on the past, review the recent season and hear about future plans for the Muchachos. Among the original alumni members attending the party, were John and Helen (Boucher) Horn who flew in from Long Beach, California. John played bass baritone and Helen was a member of the first all girl color guard back in 1963. Alumni from every generation from the1960's through the present day were in attendance.

Following a social hour, attendees listened to several guest speakers including Geraldine (Bisson) Dionne, alumna and wife of corps founder Gerry Dionne. She mentioned how proud Gerry would be to see that his corps is still continuing to this day and his belief that there "was no such thing as a bad kid, that all they needed was some direction and guidance in their lives".

Dick Jarvis, a man who's worn many hats in his Muchachos career also spoke on some highlights of his 20 year involvement with the corps, from quartermaster, to bus driver, to business manager and former corps director. Dick told several amusing tales from his two decades with the corps. He also led the group in a moment of silence for deceased alumni members and staff and praised the "unsung heroes" of drum and bugle corps existence - the Corps Mothers, who did everything from administering hugs and aspirins, to always having ready and available those extra black socks and clean t-shirts for those members who somehow always forgot to bring their own.

Current Director Al Gagne reviewed the corps recent summer season including our participation in DCI and DCA field exhibitions. He also presented special 50th Anniversary commemorative patches to Geraldine Dionne and her daughters, Chantelle and Laurette, also alums of the corps color guard. Program Director Dave Lafond spoke about the importance of a strong alumni association which could help the corps in various ways from fund raising to simple participation as support staff for corps rehearsals and performance appearances.

Following the speakers, several video presentations, organized by alumnus Doug Harrington were shown, including early home movie footage, provided by Mr. Don Bell Sr. with numerous early year black and white photos of the corps and a presentation of the corps performance at the DCI World Class show East Coast Classic in Lawrence, MA this past July.

Special thanks to Jennifer Raiche for her spirit and determination in chairing and organizing this special evening to celebrate this memorable milestone in Manchester Muchachos history!

More images from the Reunion (click to view larger images):

Added: December 5, 2010

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RECENT OPEN HOUSE A HUGE SUCCESS

The staff and members of the Muchachos would like to thank all for attending our Fall Open House on Sunday, November 7th. It was a great success and a lot of fun having guests—and hopefully new members—join us.

Instruments were provided to those interested in performing during rehearsal. With 28 horn players and a drumline consisting of five basses, two tenors, five snares, and four cymbals, the first minute of the production number for the 2011 show, learned just that day, sounded phenomenal! While the colorguard picked up a member or two, there is room for more members.

Unable to come to the open house? Please feel free to drop in at any rehearsal. Our next rehearsal is Sunday, November 21st at the Franco-American Centre, 52 Concord Street, Manchester from 11:30 am to 4:30 pm. Contact us and let us know if you are interested in colorguard, horn line or drum line and we'll have equipment and instruments available for you to use during rehearsal. Bring your mouthpiece or your sticks if you have them!

More images from the Open House (click to view larger images):

Added: November 14, 2010

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MUCHACHOS FOUNDER TO BE INDUCTED INTO HALL OF FAME

Gerald C. Dionne, founder and original director of the Muchachos, will be posthumously honored and inducted as a member of the Manchester Boys and Girls Club Hall of Fame Class of 2010 on Thursday, November 11th beginning at 6:00 pm at the site of the newly renovated Clubhouse at 555 Union Street in Manchester.

It was with Gerry's guidance and determination that his idea for a drum and bugle corps as an activity for the youth of Manchester, through the Manchester Boys Club program, would be a worthwhile endeavor.

Added: November 7, 2010

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MUCHACHOS TO HOLD FUNDRAISING DINNER

The Muchachos Inc., the 501(c)(3) non-profit parent organization of the Muchachos Drum and Bugle Corps, is holding a Spaghetti Dinner on Sunday, November 21, 2010 at the Parish of the Transfiguration Hall, 305 Kelly Street, Manchester, NH. On the menu: spaghetti with sauce, meatballs, tossed salad, garlic bread and various desserts. Drinks—soda, coffee and water—are included.

Seating for dinner is 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm. The price is $5.00 with children five and under free. Tickets are available for sale on our website (visit our Support page). Tickets can also be purchased from a current Corps member.

Tickets will be available at the door.

Each ticket purchased is valid for dinner and an entry for a chance to win a $50.00 Visa Gift Card. Two winners will be drawn, and winners need not be present to win. A penny raffle will be held during dinner with a selection of great prizes available to win.

Buy your ticket today and help support the Muchachos music education efforts and drum corps performing arts. Thank you for your support!

Added: November 1, 2010

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MUCHACHOS SEEKING COLOR GUARD STAFF

The Muchachos Drum and Bugle Corps of Manchester, NH is looking for a fun-loving, energetic and positive Color Guard person to join the staff. This person should have the experience and ability to take on the role of Caption Head and be able to work with corps members of varying ages and abilities. He or she should be able to participate on the design team.

The Muchachos is an all-age corps, performing a field routine in exhibition at drum corps shows during the summer and parades throughout the year. If interested, or for more information, please contact us through our website at http://www.muchachos.org/.

Added: October 27, 2010

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OPEN HOUSE NOVEMBER 7TH

The Muchachos All-Age Drum and Bugle Corps will host an open house and information session on Sunday, November 7th, from 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Franco-American Centre, 52 Concord Street in Manchester, NH.

New members and interested parties are invited to stop by, watch and even participate in the day's rehearsal session to see what the drum and bugle corps activity is all about. Members of the instructional and management staffs will be on hand to answer questions. The all-age drum corps is open to both youth (ages 14 and up) and adults.

The Muchachos is a year-round activity, with appearances and performances scheduled primarily from March to August throughout New England. While previous music and marching experience with a drum corps or marching band is preferred, it is not a requirement for membership. The Muchachos is a teaching drum corps, dedicated to providing musical, color guard and marching instruction to all interested in drum corps performing arts.

If you are interested in participating at the open house—with the drum line, horn line or color guard—please contact us and let us know so that equipment is available. If you play a brass instrument, please bring your mouthpiece. Drummers, bring your sticks.

All are welcome!

Added: October 24, 2010

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50TH ANNIVERSARY REUNION SET FOR NOVEMBER 26TH

Join current and former corps members on Friday, November 26th and reminisce about our past, marvel at our present and become a part our future.

The Muchachos 50th Anniversary Reunion will be held at the Chateau Restaurant at 201 Hanover Street in Manchester, NH from 7pm to 11pm. Hot and cold hors d'oeuvres will be served along with a cash bar. The cost is $15 per person before November 1st and $18 per person from November 1st to the 15th. Bring photos and memorabilia to share.

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit the Muchachos 50th Anniversary website.

We hope to see you at the reunion!

Added: October 21, 2010

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MUCHACHOS ANNOUNCE 2011 PERCUSSION STAFF

The Muchachos are pleased to announce that Aaron Boissonnault will serve as Percussion Caption Head for 2011. In addition to working with the Muchachos drum line, Aaron also works with the Bishop Guertin High School indoor winter percussion line. Aaron will be working with Percussion Instructor Todd Breen and Program and Percussion Consultant Chris Dufault.

Under Todd's instruction over the last several years, the Muchachos drum line has seen great improvement as evidenced by better music skills and increased membership. Todd says, "Joining the Muchachos is a great way to perform as a musician, to make new friends, enjoy new experiences, build self-esteem, and to learn to work as a team."

Chris has been involved in drum corps as both performer and teacher for over 30 years. He joined the Muchachos staff in the fall of 2007. In addition to working with the Muchachos, Chris is Battery Caption Head for the Spartans of Nashua, NH.

Please visit our drum line staff page for more information on the Muchachos 2011 percussion staff.

Added: October 19, 2010

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MUCHACHOS ANNOUNCE ADDITIONS TO 2011 BRASS STAFF

The Muchachos Drum and Bugle Corps is pleased to announce the addition of Scott Winship as Brass co-Caption Head and Ed Judd as Instructor to the staff for the 2011 season. Scott and Ed will be joining Brass co-Caption Head Ron Fussell, Arranger/Consultant Joe Taylor, and Program Director/Instructor David Lafond in building upon the corps' recent successful season by challenging members of the horn line in achieving a greater level of performance.

Scott has an extensive background in drum corps having performed with the Boston Crusaders, the United States Marine Drum and Bugle Corps and the Crusaders Senior corps. Scott's music teaching experience includes marching band instructor for Bishop Feehan High School and high school band director for North Attleboro High School and Livonia High School in NY. Scott has a BS in Music Education from Rhode Island College and a Master of Music in Wind Band Conducting from the University of Nebraska.

Ed is currently Music Director at Newfound Regional High School in Bristol, NH and has experience teaching both marching band and drum corps as instructor, consultant, music arranger, and marching instructor. Ed is past president of the Maine Music Educators Association and holds a BS in Music Education from Western Connecticut State University and an MS in Music Education from the University of Bridgeport. This past summer, Ed assisted the Muchachos with marching instruction. For the 2011 season, Ed will be teaching music lessons to horn players and percussionists as well as assisting with the visual program.

Please visit our horn line staff page for more information on the Muchachos 2011 brass staff.

Added: October 11, 2010

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DRUM CORPS HOSTS ANNUAL AWARDS BANQUET

The Muchachos held their annual awards banquet on Sunday, October 3rd, at the Parish of the Transfiguration in Manchester. Members, family, friends, staff, and alumni were on hand to celebrate a successful 2010 summer season. Awards from each caption were awarded to the following members:

Color Guard

• Most Improved: Denyelle Surrell
• Most Valuable Player: Melissa O'Meara

Drum Line

• Most Improved: Ken Vachon - snare
• Most Valuable Player: Rick Cote - snare

Horn Line

• Most Improved: David Kierstead, Jr. - baritone
• Most Improved: Kaitlyn Baillargeon - soprano
• Most Valuable Player: Joan Joly - mellophone

Pat Provencher Spirit Award

• Keith Veale - snare

Tom Downie Peer Recognition Award

• Ken Vachon - snare

Rookie of the Year

• Joan Joly - mellophone

Muchacho of the Year

• Ken Vachon - snare

The Muchachos are already working on the 2011 season program. Rehearsal dates will be posted on the corps website in the coming weeks and an open house is scheduled for Sunday, November 7th. Individuals interested in membership are encouraged to join us at our open house or rehearsals or to contact us for information.

Added: October 7, 2010

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$15,000 GOODSEARCH GIVEAWAY

Would you take a minute to help the Muchachos win $1,000?

GoodSearch.com is sponsoring a contest that will give an extra $1,000 to each of the five organizations that have the most toolbar downloads (and $100 to each of the first 100 charities to reach 100 downloads!) With the GoodSearch toolbar, every time you search online or shop at more than 1,500 stores (from Amazon to Zazzle!), a donation will be made to the Muchachos — all you have to do is add our toolbar to your browser.

Please help us be one of the lucky organizations that will receive these much-needed funds! Here's how:

1. Click http://www.goodsearch.com/toolbar/muchachos
2. Download the Muchachos toolbar
3. "Share With Friends" on our toolbar download page so that others can get involved!

The contest ends on Oct. 31 so please add the toolbar NOW and spread the word to as many people as you can! For more information, click http://www.goodsearch.com/goodsearchgiveaway/.

Thank you for your support!

Added: October 3, 2010

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MAKING PLANS FOR 2011: 1ST REHEARSAL OCTOBER 3RD

The Muchachos Drum & Bugle Corps kicks off its 51st year with the first rehearsal of the season on Sunday, October 3rd. The corps will gather at its original "home" on the site of the new Manchester Boys & Girls Club at 555 Union St., Manchester, NH. Doors open at 11:15 AM. Rehearsal starts promptly at 11:30 AM and runs until 4:30 PM.

The Muchachos, an all-age exhibition drum corps, has openings in all sections—color guard, brass and percussion—and invite any former drum corps alumni as well as current or former high school and college band members, and anyone wishing to learn more about the drum corps activity, to stop by and get a first-hand look at what goes on behind the scenes. Students ages 14 to 17 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. While experience is helpful, it is not a requirement for membership. The Muchachos are dedicated to teaching drum corps performing arts and have highly-qualified educators—experienced in teaching and performing—on the instructional staff.

Make this the year to get in a bit of exercise, learn some new musical skills or polish up some old ones and make new friends as part of the Muchachos drum corps "family". Please contact us for more information.

The corps will also hold its annual awards night following the rehearsal with a 6:00 PM spaghetti supper at the Parish of the Transfiguration on Kelly Street in Manchester. Anyone participating in the rehearsal session is also invited to attend as a guest of the corps to get a look at the social opportunities membership in the drum corps provides.

The Muchachos hope to see YOU on Sunday, October 3rd!

Added: September 27, 2010

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CLOSING CEREMONY: 100 NIGHTS OF REMEMBRANCE

On Sunday, September 12th, the Muchachos, along with several members of the Crusader Senior Drum and Bugle Corps and a number of military veterans, high school, and volunteer musicians, sounded Taps at the closing ceremony of 100 Nights of Remembrance at the New Hampshire State Veterans Cemetery in Boscawen, NH.

From Memorial Day to September 11th, 100 Nights of Remembrance musicians sound Taps at the cemetery each evening at 7:00 PM.

Visit 100 Nights of Remembrance for more information about the organization and how you can help support its mission.

Added: September 19, 2010

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THANKS FOR A GREAT YEAR

I'd like to thank everyone who contributed to making the 50th anniversary season of the Muchachos a very memorable one. We achieved a new level of performance that no one expected from us and our efforts were rewarded by the enthusiasm the crowds displayed at every turn. The following excerpt from a posting in our guestbook says it all.

"I'm with the Kingston, NY, March of Champions Committee. I wanted to say thanks for a great performance Saturday night! I look forward to seeing The Muchachos in Kingston in 2011!" Bill Rubel.

Special thanks obviously go to our marching members, instructional staff, and support staff who consistently give their best, day in and day out, to make the Muchachos bigger and better every year.

Our gratitude also goes to the volunteers who help us put on our home show, and to the advertisers and boosters who help out by supporting our program book.

We are also indebted to Mr. Arthur Sullivan and Brady-Sullivan Properties for providing a home for the Corps. It has made a significant improvement in our operations which was sorely needed.

Next year will certainly be exciting as we try to start off our next 50 years on the right foot (pun intended).

We are working on getting more resources as we continue to grow and expand our program. We will be having a kick-off organizational meeting at the end of our rehearsal on Sept. 19th with a follow up organizational meeting the following week. All who are interested are welcome to attend in helping us meet our goals for next year (2011) and the next 50 years. Please stay tuned to our website for more info.

Al Gagne
Corps Director

Added: August 18, 2010

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WINNER OF THE RED SOX RAFFLE

The drawing for the winner of two tickets to the August 2nd game between the Boston Red Sox and Cleveland Indians was held during Sunday's Fiesta de Musica drum corps show, and the winner is:

Mark Sullivan of Turners Falls, MA

Congratulations, Mark, and a big thank you to all for supporting the Muchachos!

Added: July 21, 2010

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RESULTS OF SUNDAY'S COMPETITION

The following drum corps competed at Sunday's Fiesta de Musica show. Here are their scores (out of 100) and placements:

• 1st - Spartans - Nashua, NH - 78.30
• 2nd - 7th Regiment - New London, CT - 77.00
• 3rd - Les Stentors - Sherbrooke, QU - 66.15
• 4th - Platinum - Raleigh, NC - 60.85
• 5th - Blue Saints - Sudbury, ON - 51.85

Thank you to all participating drum corps for making Fiesta de Musica an entertaining success!

Added: July 21, 2010

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4TH ANNUAL FIESTA DE MUSICA

Fiesta de Musica, the Muchachos home show, will take place Sunday, July 18, 2010 at Memorial High School's Clem Lemire Sports Complex in Manchester, New Hampshire. The DCI Open Class show steps off at 5:30 PM.

Tickets will be available at the gate.

Performing corps: (Links open in a new window.)

• Les Stentors - Sherbrooke, QU
• Blue Saints - Sudbury, ON
• Spartans - Nashua, NH
• Platinum - Raleigh, NC
• 7th Regiment - New London, CT
• Mass Brass (in exhibition) - South Boston, MA
• Crusaders Senior (in exhibition) - Boston, MA
• The Muchachos (in exhibition) - Manchester, NH

Admission is $12.00 for adults and $10.00 for Senior Citizens and children under 12.

Updated: July 17, 2010

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MUCHACHOS SPONSOR RED CROSS BLOOD DRIVE JUNE 30TH

With the start of another busy summer season directly ahead and blood supplies across the region extremely low, the Muchachos are asking their members, families, friends and fans of the corps to get in the community spirit and join them on Wednesday, June 30th from 11am to 6pm at the Red Cross Donation Center at 425 Reservoir Ave. in Manchester on Muchachos Day and donate a pint to support the needs of their local chapter. The center is particularly in need of O negative type blood

Every donor who participates on June 30th will receive a $5 gift coin to T Bones or Cactus Jack's restaurant, plus a coupon good for $10 off the admission price for a cruise on board the Mount Washington on Lake Winnipesaukee. In addition all donors that day will be entered into several drawings with each winner receiving a pair of tickets to the corps' Fiesta de Musica drum & bugle corps competition on Sunday, July 18 in Manchester. So everyone benefits by YOUR participation in the Muchachos annual blood donation drive in support of the American Red Cross.

We hope to see YOU there!

Added: June 28, 2010

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SPARTANS' MUSIC FESTIVAL SATURDAY, JUNE 26TH

The Muchachos will perform their show, "Pictures of Spain," on Saturday, June 26th at the Spartans Drum and Bugle Corps' Summer Music Festival 2010 at Stellos Stadium in Nashua, NH.

A five-time winner of the DCI Open Class gold medal, the Nashua, NH Spartans are hosting a day of activities, including a drum circle and colorguard clinic and performances by the Muchachos, Mass Brass, and the Spartans. See the Spartans website for details.

Added: June 22, 2010

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MUCHACHOS UNVEIL 50TH ANNIVERSARY T-SHIRT DESIGN

As the Muchachos prepare to celebrate our 50th anniversary with an amazing show that embraces the past, present, and future, we are also proud to present our NEW tee shirt design for our Golden Anniversary.

This amazing design was created by Corwin Bermudez. The design captures our desire to honor our past achievements and history that continues to make the Corps strong, as well as representing our dedication, aspirations, and the unity that will guarantee our continued success during 2010 and beyond.

Help us celebrate this wonderful year for the Corps and own a piece of history! These 50th Anniversary tee shirts are on sale now for $18.00 on this website and at other select locations.

Added: June 19, 2010

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News Archive