Vanguard Music and Performing Arts’ Executive Director Charles Frost is on a mission to increase the presence of VMAPA, as well as the Santa Clara Vanguard and Vanguard Cadets Drum and Bugle Corps.
Not only did the corps perform at the Tournament of Roses Parade in 2017, an alumni corps was assembled last year to celebrate Vanguard’s golden anniversary to engage former Vanguard members and delight audiences nationwide. This year, as Vanguard ramps up its 2018 season, Frost is furthering the corps’ presence within Drum Corps International (DCI)—the governing body of drum and bugle corps throughout the United States and Canada—a new member of the DCI Board of Directors.
“Drum Corps International just celebrated its 45th anniversary as we celebrated our 50th,” Frost said. “DCI went through a very intensive strategic planning process to shape the future for DCI and as we move from planning to implementation, I felt it was a great time to step up and be part of the future of DCI.”
Frost was elected to a three year term where he will advance the interests of DCI, which includes finding ways to reach new audiences, increasing audience engagement and sharing the best practices for educating students. Additionally, he will have the responsibility of overseeing the business and strategic initiatives of the organization.
“As I become member of the DCI Board—actually the Secretary—it will be a period of growth for DCI and VMAPA,” he said. “As a DCI board member, I am there to serve in the best interest of DCI. Our organization here in Santa Clara will continue to support DCI as we know DCI will continue to set the stage for our world class talented performers.”
VMAPA’s founder and director, Gail Royer, was also a charter member of the DCI Board of Directors.