Instrumentation in Drum and Bugle Corps

Baritone Bugle Added

Jun 25, 1935

The larger baritone bugle added a lower-pitched voice to the ensemble.

Mylar Drum Heads Introduced

Jun 24, 1957

Ludwig introduced a synthetic drumhead material that replaced unborn calfskin heads.

Piston Rotor Valve Legalized

Jun 24, 1967

American Legion judges legalized piston-rotor valve instruments, allowing ensembles to use the full chromatic scale.

Two piston valve horns legalized

Jun 24, 1979

In 1979 Drum Corps International legalized the use of two piston valve instruments