Mankato Drum Corps Scholarships Increase to $500 Each

High school and college band members in Mankato just got a financial boost to chase their drum corps dreams.

The Kiwanis Thunder of Drums and Music Mart are now accepting applications for their annual drum corps scholarship. This year, they've increased the award amount to $500 per student, helping to cover the steep costs of joining a Drum Corps International World Class Corps.

Up to four local students will receive the scholarship this year. To qualify, students must be active members of their high school or college band, have an accepted contract offer from a DCI World Class Corps, and submit their application by May 1st.

Drum corps is like marching band's elite older sibling. These ensembles tour nationally each summer, performing complex shows that blend brass, percussion, and choreography at the highest level. The experience is transformative for young musicians, but participation can cost thousands of dollars.

The scholarship comes from the Mankato Kiwanis Club, which has been bringing world-class drum corps to their community for 34 years. Their annual Thunder of Drums competition draws over 3,000 spectators and 600 performers to Blakeslee Stadium each July.

The Ripple Effect

When local students join drum corps, they return home with skills that elevate entire band programs. They bring back advanced techniques, professional work ethic, and infectious enthusiasm that raises the bar for their peers.

The investment also strengthens Mankato's connection to the broader drum corps community. Students who march often become lifelong supporters of the arts, eventually giving back to the next generation of musicians.

This year's Thunder of Drums takes place July 7th at Minnesota State University, Mankato. Applications are available at thunderofdrums.org or at Mankato Music Mart on North Riverfront Drive.

Young musicians have until May to apply, and scholarships will be awarded on a rolling basis as applications arrive.