European Drum Corps Championships - the future

European Drum Corps Championships 2022/2023/2024
Surplus Distribution & Organisational Transition Report


Background
Since the European Drum Corps Championships (EDCC) were revived after the COVID-19 pandemic, they have been successfully delivered through the leadership of Hans Kloppert, with dedicated support from Alan Thompson, Joe Fitzpatrick, and a broad network of European marching organisations. The events held in 2022, 2023, and 2024 were made possible by collaboration among the following key partners:
• Drum Corps United Kingdom (DCUK)
• Dutch Music Games (DMG)
• Irish Marching Band Association (IMBA)
• German Open / DCG
• Rasteder Musiktage
• European Drum Corps Judges Association (EDCJA)
• Various individual corps and volunteers

Following these three successful editions, a financial surplus was generated. With the decision to wind down the informal "European Drum Corps Partners" structure, this report outlines how the remaining funds will be distributed in a transparent, fair, and forward-thinking manner.

The Future of the EDCC
It is important to note that the European Drum Corps Championships will continue in 2025 and beyond, though under new leadership and management. The next edition is scheduled for Saturday, 27 September 2025 in Dordrecht, Netherlands, with Hans Kloppert continuing as the principal organizer and organisational lead.

While the collaborative partnership model is ending, this does not mark the end of European Championships — rather, it simply marks a transition into a more sustainable structure that can support the future growth of the activity.

Principles for Surplus Distribution
To responsibly allocate the remaining funds, the following principles have guided all decisions:
• Transparency – Open communication with all stakeholders and a public report of outcomes.
• Legacy & Sustainability – Enabling future events and preserving the drum corps tradition.
• Equity – Rewarding corps who demonstrated ongoing participation and commitment.
• Charitable Impact – Supporting causes that reflect the values of youth development, access, and community.

Summary of Fund Distribution
1. Working Capital for EDCC 2025
Funds have been allocated to help cover essential upfront costs for the 2025 event. This includes venue hire, insurance, publicity, and other necessary operational expenses to ensure a stable and professional delivery of the next championship.

2. Grants to Regularly Participating Organisations and Stakeholders
Organisations that participated in at least two of the last three championships will each receive an equal grant. This recognises their consistent presence, effort, and financial investment in supporting the EDCC over recent years.

3. Charitable Donation (Nominated by Hans Kloppert)
A donation will be made to a charitable organisation selected by Hans Kloppert. This gesture honours his years of service and aligns with the drum corps community’s emphasis on youth empowerment, inclusivity, and grassroots engagement.

4. Donation to the Marching and Performing Arts Charitable Trust
A donation to this UK-registered charity in recognition of the leadership, mentorship, and enduring service of Alan Thompson and Joe Fitzpatrick. The Trust’s mission closely reflects the values of the European drum corps movement: promoting education, performance opportunities, and personal growth through music.

Final Reporting & Closure
A complete report including a breakdown of all distributed funds, recipient organisations, and supporting documentation has been shared with all stakeholders. This includes participating corps & partner organisations.

A Closing Note
Although the European Drum Corps Partners collaboration is now concluding in respect of the running of the European Championships, the connections and goodwill among individuals and organisations remain strong. There is an open commitment to continuing mutual support, and the door remains open for future partnership models should they be needed to serve the community’s shared objectives.

This announcement serves as the formal closure of the European Drum Corps Partners initiative — with deep gratitude to all who gave their time, resources, and passion to bring the Championships to life.

Prepared by: Hans Kloppert, Alan Thompson, and Joe Fitzpatrick 

20th August 2025