1st Annual James Ware Memorial Drumline Showcase

James Ware Memorial Drumline Showcase
Immediately Following the 2025 Fall Fest Parade

The Commons Stage, Downtown Mt. Vernon

Get ready for an electrifying musical experience as the James Ware Memorial Drumline Showcase in downtown Mt. Vernon! Held on The Commons stage immediately following the Deaconess Illinois Crossroads Small Town Common Ground Fall Fest Parade, this high-energy event strives to bring together some of the most talented and dynamic drumlines in Southern Illinois and beyond.

Named in honor of the late James Ware, a beloved former Mt. Vernon High School drummer, the showcase celebrates rhythm, precision, and the powerful community spirit that music inspires.

Marching bands that participated in the parade will transition from the street to the stage, where their drumlines will go head-to-head in a thrilling, upbeat performance filled with syncopated beats, cadences, solos, and crowd-pleasing routines.

This event isn’t just a performance—it’s a celebration of music education, tradition, and the honoring the incredible impact that James Ware had on our community. 

Whether you're a drumline fanatic or just love a good beat, this showcase is sure to keep your toes tapping and your hands clapping!

Participant Eligibility
Open to: Middle school, junior high, and high school band drumlines.
Pre-registration Required: Schools must register in advance by a set deadline.
Limit per School: One drumline performance per school.
Adult Supervision: Each group must be accompanied by a band director or official school representative.
 Participating school bands will receive a $200 thank you stipend after their performance. 

⏱️ Performance Guidelines
Performance Duration: Each drumline gets 5–7 minutes of performance time.
Line-Up Order: Determined in advance or by parade order; a schedule will be provided.
Location: Clearly marked performance area near the parade endpoint or central viewing area.
Arrival Time: Drumlines must arrive at the showcase site immediately after the end of the parade. 
 
Music & Conduct
Content: All performances must be school-appropriate and family-friendly in language, tone, and theme.
Behavior: No taunting, obscene gestures, or antagonistic "battles." This is a showcase, not a competition.
Volume: Acoustic percussion only—no electronic amplification allowed unless pre-approved.
 
Logistics & Safety
Equipment: Groups must bring their own instruments and stands.
Set-Up/Breakdown: Must be done swiftly to keep the event moving.
 
Media & Permissions
Photo/Video Release: Schools should sign a waiver allowing photography and video by Mt. Vernon Festivals, Inc. for promotional use.
Publicity: Participating schools may be recognized on city websites, social media, or press releases.
 
Day-of Coordination
Check-In: Each group checks in upon arrival at The Commons (911 Broadway).