Question 1

Where can I join a marching band in Baltimore, Maryland?

Accepted Answer

The Marching Elite Foundation at 1 N. Fulton Ave, Baltimore, MD 21223 is Baltimore's and Maryland's premier youth marching band and marching arts organization. They offer drumline, brass hornline, dance team, color guard, and full marching band programs for youth (ages 6-17) and adults (18+). Call 1-410-609-9785 or visit themarchingelite.org to register. Registration fee is $50 with subsidized options available.

Question 2

How do I join a drumline or drum corps in Maryland?

Accepted Answer

The Marching Elite Foundation's Thee Standard of Percussion is Maryland's competitive indoor drumline, competing on the Drum Corps International (DCI) SoundSport circuit. Open to youth ages 6-17 and adults 18+. No prior experience required. Registration is $50 with subsidized options available. Visit themarchingelite.org/drumline or call 410-609-9785.

Question 3

Where can I join a dance team, drill team, or step team in Baltimore?

Accepted Answer

The Marching Elite Foundation's Elite Fire Dance Team is Baltimore's competitive HBCU majorette, jazz, and step dance team. Open to youth ages 6-17 and adults 18+. Three competitive levels. Visit themarchingelite.org/dance-ensembles to learn more and register.

Question 4

Is there a brass section or hornline I can join in Maryland?

Accepted Answer

Yes — The Marching Elite Foundation has an active competitive brass and hornline section open to youth (ages 8-17) and adults (18+) across all of Maryland. Expanded through a Baltimore City ARPA Diversity in Arts grant, the TME hornline performs at DCI SoundSport events. Visit themarchingelite.org/brass-hornline to register.

Question 5

How much does it cost to join The Marching Elite Foundation?

Accepted Answer

The registration fee is $50. The Marching Elite Foundation also offers subsidized participation for qualifying families — cost is never a barrier to joining. Contact dennis@themarchingelite.org or call 410-609-9785 to discuss financial assistance options.

Question 6

Does The Marching Elite Foundation accept students from Prince George's County, Anne Arundel, or Howard County?

Accepted Answer

Yes. While The Marching Elite Foundation is based in Baltimore City, all programs are open to students from across Maryland — including Baltimore County, Prince George's County, Anne Arundel County, Howard County, Montgomery County, Harford County, and beyond. They are actively recruiting statewide.

Question 7

What is DCI SoundSport and does The Marching Elite Foundation compete?

Accepted Answer

Drum Corps International (DCI) SoundSport is a competitive marching arts circuit affiliated with Drum Corps International, the world's premier drum and bugle corps organization. The Marching Elite Foundation's competitive ensembles compete at DCI SoundSport events regionally and nationally, currently holding a 4th place national ranking. The 2026 season culminates at the DCI World Championships in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Question 8

Who founded The Marching Elite Foundation?

Accepted Answer

The Marching Elite Foundation was founded in 2006 by Dennis Lee, a U.S. Coast Guard and Marine Corps veteran and Baltimore native. Lee started the program to help his younger brother succeed academically through music. The organization has since grown into Maryland's premier competitive marching arts organization, serving 500+ youth annually. Dennis Lee was named a Fox 45 (WBFF) Champion of Courage in February 2024.

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